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Albany, New York: The Consulate General of India in New York, in collaboration with New York State Senator Jeremy A. Cooney, hosted a special reception in Albany celebrating India-US friendship, democracy, and shared values.
The event brought together several prominent lawmakers and community leaders, including State Senators John C. Liu and Luis R. Sepúlveda; Assemblyman Kalman Yeger; Assemblywoman Karen McMahon; Assemblyman Nader Sayegh; and Director of Asian American Affairs for New York State, Sibu Nair. University representatives, members of the Indian diaspora, and friends of India also attended the gathering.
During the event, the Consulate expressed appreciation to Senator Cooney for sponsoring the New York State Senate Resolution proclaiming August 15, 2026, as India Independence Day in New York State.
“The purpose of tonight is to celebrate our shared heritage, to celebrate our proud diaspora coming from India, to make sure that we are seen and recognized, and heard,” Senator Cooney said. He emphasized the growing presence of the Indian American and broader Asian American Pacific Islander communities across New York State and the United States.
Reflecting on discussions in the State Senate along with Liu, Cooney highlighted efforts to expand recognition of Diwali beyond New York City schools to communities across the state.
“We want to expand that across the state, because Indians and Hindus live across the state, so no matter where you are in New York, we want to celebrate and be part of the society and communities that we reside in,” he added. “It’s not just about holidays, it’s about curriculum and education and our history, sharing our story.”
Cooney also praised the leadership of Consul General of India in New York, Binaya Pradhan, for strengthening partnerships in areas such as economic development, innovation, and community engagement.
“You are bridging those opportunities for us here in the United States,” he said.
As India approaches the celebration of its Independence Day, Cooney encouraged members of the community to continue promoting unity and progress.
“We want to remember that we have come a long way, and that we have more work to do, and as we grow, we all benefit. So, please continue to take this story of unity and prosperity and hard work and passion for this great country into your home communities. Be proud of who we are, and what we look like and what we will do, because the story of America is the story of us,” he said.
Senator Liu also commended the work of the Indian Consulate and Consul General Pradhan, noting the growing presence and contributions of Indian Americans across the United States.
He said Pradhan just came from Connecticut and now heading to Maine. “Indian Americans are Americans here in New York, here in the Northeast, and really all across America,” Liu said.
Liu, who immigrated from Taiwan at the age of five, reflected on the shared experiences of immigrant communities in the country.
“I’ve grown up with Indian Americans and fellow Americans, fellow immigrants, I understand firsthand the struggles that we all go through, but all the successes that we have been able to cultivate and nurture over the years,” he said.
He further highlighted the growing influence of immigrant communities in business, academia, politics, and public service.
Consul General Pradhan said the gathering celebrated both the Senate resolution and the upcoming anniversary of India’s independence. He noted that Senator Cooney had also sponsored a resolution last year recognizing the Indian Constitution.
“So, I cannot thank you enough for finding such a noble cause every year to bring the community together to celebrate India, and also to celebrate the Indian American friends,” Pradhan said.
Speaking about bilateral ties, Pradhan described the India-US relationship as a “global strategic partnership,” noting growing cooperation in technology, trade, investment, education, and research. While acknowledging that challenges may arise periodically, he said the partnership remains stronger than ever across multiple sectors.
Pradhan also highlighted the contributions of the Indian American community to the United States, describing the diaspora as a “meaningful partner” in the country’s nation-building process. Referring to a Boston Consulting Group report, he noted that the Indian diaspora has been a “net giver” to American society while also benefiting from the opportunities available in the country.
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