NEW YORK (Diya TV) — The New York State Senate has adopted a resolution urging Gov. Kathy Hochul to proclaim Aug. 15, 2026, as India Independence Day in New York, marking a significant recognition of India’s heritage and the contributions of Indian Americans across the state.

The resolution, known as J1935, received strong bipartisan support in the Senate. Lawmakers praised India’s rich civilization, democratic traditions, and the growing influence of the Indian American community in New York and across the United States.

Indian American state Sen. Jeremy Cooney sponsored Resolution J1935. The measure calls on Hochul to officially recognize Aug. 15, 2026, as India Independence Day in New York and encourage celebrations throughout the state. During Senate discussions, lawmakers highlighted India’s long history, cultural achievements, and democratic values. They also recognized the impact of Indian Americans in business, education, public service, and community leadership. Cooney emphasized the importance of celebrating India’s heritage and the connections between communities in New York.

“Across the globe, Indians are making lasting impacts in their communities, and this is an opportunity to join together and celebrate and reflect on our shared history, culture, and heritage,” he said.

Cooney made history in 2020 when voters elected him as the first Asian American to hold state office from upstate New York. Born in India, Cooney was adopted from an orphanage in Kolkata and raised by a single mother in Rochester. His personal connection to India added special significance to the resolution. The senator has often spoken about the importance of diversity and inclusion in New York. His sponsorship of the India Independence Day resolution reflects the growing visibility and influence of the Indian American community in state politics.

The Consulate General of India in New York welcomed the Senate’s action and expressed appreciation for the recognition. In a statement, the consulate said the remarks made by senators reflected the strong people-to-people ties between India and the United States. The statement also highlighted the increasing role of the Indian diaspora in strengthening communities throughout New York. The consulate thanked Cooney for sponsoring the resolution and expressed gratitude to members of the Senate for recognizing India’s heritage and the contributions of Indian Americans.

“The Consulate General of India, New York, expresses its sincere gratitude to Senator Jeremy Cooney for sponsoring the adopted resolution,” the statement said.

The consulate added that the recognition reflects the close friendship, democratic values, and shared interests that connect India and the United States. Several senators from both political parties voiced support for the resolution. State Sen. John C. Liu praised India’s long history and democratic traditions while recognizing the achievements of Indian Americans in New York.

“India has been around for thousands of years,” Liu said during the Senate session. He noted that Indian Americans continue to make valuable contributions to local communities and the nation.

Republican state Sens. Steven D. Rhoads and Jack M. Martins also endorsed the resolution. Rhoads said he was proud to represent a district with a growing Indian population. He credited Indian Americans with strengthening neighborhoods through entrepreneurship, cultural traditions, and community engagement. Martins highlighted the presence of Indian American communities throughout New York State. He pointed to their contributions as business owners, civic leaders, and high-achieving students.

“They truly are the path to the future,” Martins said.