OLYMPIA, Wash. — The Washington State Senate has adopted a bipartisan resolution recognizing India’s 77th Republic Day, highlighting the country’s long-standing democratic traditions and the contributions of the Indian American community to the state.
Senate Resolution No. 8674 was passed unanimously in Olympia and underscored India’s democratic legacy as well as the deepening relationship between India and Washington state. The measure pointed to shared priorities in agriculture, trade, technology, and critical and emerging technologies.
The resolution was introduced by State Senator Manka Dhingra, who represents the 45th Legislative District, and was supported by State Senator Vandana Slatter of the 48th Legislative District. All senators present voted in favor.
To mark the resolution’s adoption, the Consulate General of India hosted a reception at the Washington State Capitol, attended by state senators, members of the House of Representatives, and other dignitaries. Cultural performances were also held at the Capitol as part of the observance.
Several other U.S. states, including Alaska, Nebraska, Washington, Oregon, and South Dakota, also issued proclamations honoring India’s Republic Day. Governors and regional leaders sent messages recognizing the occasion and the role of Indian and Indian American communities in their states.
Montana Governor Greg Gianforte acknowledged the “contributions of the Indian and Indian American community” to Montana’s cultural, educational, and economic life, noting that their commitment to innovation and learning enriches the state. South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden said, “Congratulations on the 77 years of the Republic of India. I am confident that the United States and India will continue to build an even stronger relationship.”
Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen cited “shared values” between India and Nebraska, pointing to collaboration in trade, technology, agriculture, and culture.
Bill Gates, chair of the Gates Foundation, highlighted India’s global influence, saying, “Indian innovation is serving people at scale, not just in India, but across the global south. That’s true in health, in agriculture, in digital public infrastructure, and in new technologies like AI.”
U.S. Representative Kim Schrier of Washington’s 8th Congressional District also sent greetings. “On behalf of the people of Washington, I wish all of you a happy Republic Day as bright as your tricolour flag and as meaningful as the values and freedoms that your democracy represents,” she said. “May the friendship between our peoples continue to grow ever stronger in the years ahead.”
As part of the celebrations, the Consulate General of India hosted events in Seattle on January 26. In the morning, the Consul General unfurled the Indian tricolor atop the Federal Reserve building in downtown Seattle and read excerpts from the President of India’s address. Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson attended the ceremony, along with a 30-member delegation from Montana. The program included patriotic poetry and a traditional Kuchipudi dance performance.
Later that evening, a reception was held at the Bell Harbor Conference Center, attended by Washington state leaders, technology executives, and Indian American community members. During the event, six newly elected Indian American city council members from Washington state were recognized for their public service and for strengthening representation in local government.
Guests also viewed cultural displays presented under the One District One Product initiative, featuring items from all 28 Indian states. Earlier in the day, the Consulate inaugurated newly co-located offices of the Indian Consular Application Centre in the Federal Reserve building, a move expected to improve efficiency by providing consular services at a single location. (Source: IANS)
