Highlights:
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Bipartisan US leaders reaffirm the importance of India–US ties
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Indian-American community recognized for economic and cultural impact
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Lawmakers describe the partnership as critical for global peace and stability
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New York event marks India’s 77th Republic Day
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Artificial intelligence and trade identified as priority cooperation areas
Senior bipartisan American lawmakers and political leaders used a New York Republic Day celebration to emphasize the strength of India–US ties and the growing influence of the Indian-American community. Speakers described the bilateral relationship as essential for global peace, stability, and shared prosperity, while calling for continued efforts to deepen cooperation.
The Consulate General of India in New York hosted a special reception on Saturday (31) to mark the 77th Republic Day of India. The event brought together elected officials, business leaders, academics, cultural figures, diplomats, and members of the Indian-American community.
Consul General of India in New York Binaya Srikanta Pradhan and Deputy Consul General Vishal Harsh welcomed the guests and highlighted the broad-based support for the India–US partnership across political and institutional lines.
Republic Day remarks focus on Indian-American contributions
Addressing the gathering, Delaware Governor Matt Meyer highlighted the growth of the Indian community in his state, calling it “our fastest-growing immigrant community in Delaware, as it is in many places across the country.” He referenced the background of Delaware Secretary of State Charuni Patibanda-Sanchez, the first Indian-American to hold that position in the United States.
“The immigrant experience here and the opportunity to embrace freedom, education, and build wealth not just for yourselves but for American communities across our country is something so deeply enmeshed in the Indian-American community,” Meyer said.
Meyer is scheduled to visit India in March, leading a business delegation to Mumbai, Delhi, and Hyderabad, signaling continued economic engagement linked to Republic Day diplomacy.
US Representative Nick LaLota, a Republican from Suffolk County, described the Indian community as the “third I” on Long Island, alongside the Italian and Irish communities. He cited Indian-American entrepreneur Harry Singh, founder and CEO of Bolla Oil Corporation, who came to the United States “with nothing but built an empire of hundreds of gas stations” across Long Island.
Republic Day event underscores bipartisan support for India–US relations
US Representative Mike Lawler, who represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, said the India–US relationship is valued and must continue to grow.
“When you talk about the world’s oldest democracy and the world’s largest democracy, that partnership is vital for peace and stability around the globe,” he said.
Lawler, a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said India–US ties are central to the committee’s work.
“I fundamentally believe that India is the most important country when it comes to the United States’ ability to ensure peace and prosperity around the globe. As we move forward, the relationship between the United States and India must be paramount, and we must get that relationship back on track and moving in the right direction,” he said, drawing applause.
Recalling Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address to a joint session of Congress in 2023, Lawler described it as a “momentous” occasion, noting what he referred to as Modi’s “rock star vibes.”
Republic Day reflections from state and local leaders
Congresswoman Laura Gillen reflected on her early work in Kolkata with Mother Teresa and the Missionaries of Charity.
“I developed a deep love for India and the Indian people,” Gillen said. She credited Indian-American immigrants with strengthening the United States through their work as engineers, doctors, and professionals, and said there is bipartisan commitment to maintaining strong India–US relations.
New York State Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar pointed to the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi and India’s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. She also referenced efforts to declare Diwali a school holiday in New York City, noting that similar steps are being taken across the country.
Edison Mayor Sam Joshi, re-elected in November 2025, said, “I am openly, unapologetically Indian,” adding that while he typically avoids federal issues, he would advocate for stronger US–India ties. He called on the Indian-American community to use its influence across business, healthcare, entertainment, life sciences, and government to advance the relationship.
Republic Day discussions include technology and trade cooperation
In his remarks, Pradhan said India–US relations are anchored in a comprehensive global strategic partnership with bipartisan backing in both countries. He highlighted expanding cooperation across multiple sectors.
Ahead of the India-AI Impact Summit later this month in New Delhi, Pradhan pointed to growing bilateral collaboration in artificial intelligence. This includes a memorandum of understanding to establish the Krishnamurthy Tandon School of Artificial Intelligence at IIM Ahmedabad.
The school has been endowed with ₹100 crore by Indian-American philanthropist and Grammy-winning artist Chandrika Tandon, an alumna of IIM Ahmedabad, and her husband Ranjan Tandon.
“I believe the India–US relationship is at an inflection point, driven by the people of our two countries. It will only get stronger in the coming years,” Pradhan said.
The Republic Day celebration concluded with cultural performances, including Bhangra and instrumental music, along with a ‘Make in India’ pavilion and displays showcasing the ‘One District One Product’ initiative and Indian textile traditions.
