US: Massachusetts Governor declares Aug 15 as 'India Day'

Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has declared August 15 as 'India Day', honouring India's Independence Day and the contributions of Indian Americans to the state's economy, culture and public life.

Healey signed the proclamation on August 1, recognising August 15 as the 79th anniversary of India's independence in 1947. Lieutenant Governor of Massachusetts Kimberley Driscoll and Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts William Francis Galvin also endorsed the proclamation and urged people across the state to recognise and celebrate India Day on August 15, the American Bazaar reported.

In the proclamation, Massachusetts acknowledged the presence of the Indian diaspora across the world, noting that over 36 million people of Indian-origin reside outside India, including more than five million living in the US. Massachusetts also recognised the role played by members of the Indian community in the state through entrepreneurship, public service, education, innovation, healthcare and scientific research.

"The Indian American population in Massachusetts has made significant contributions in fields such as medicine, science, technology, education, business and public service, enriching the cultural and economic fabric of the Commonwealth," the proclamation reads.

It highlighted how India's Independence Day is celebrated by the Indian American community in Massachusetts. "The Indian American community across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts continues to honor this important occasion with events that celebrate India’s rich cultural heritage, democratic values, and enduring commitment to peace and progress."

Similarly, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu has also declared August 15 as 'India Day' in the city, the American Bazaar reported.

On August 15, India will celebrate its 80th Independence Day, marking the day it became independent of British rule in 1947. August 15 serves as a potent metaphor for India's transformation from a colonised nation to the biggest democracy in the world.