Washington among three US States to formally recognise 26 January as India's Republic Day

Three US states, including Washington, Alaska and Nebraska on Sunday (local time) recognised 26 January as the Republic Day of India as the country celebrated the occasion with flag unfurling, parades and various other events.

Governors of the three states issued three separate proclamations, saying that they recognise the importance of the day as well as strengthening bilateral ties with India.

“Alaska recognizes the importance of strengthening bilateral ties with India, a nation with which we share values of democracy, innovation, and economic growth; and the Indian community contributes significantly to Alaska's cultural diversity. educational excellence, and economic vitality,” Alaska said in the proclamation.

“Alaska and India continue to build strong partnerships in trade, technology, agriculture and cultural exchange, fostering mutual prosperity and understanding. Consulate General of India in Seattle will host a celebration of India's Republic Day, highlighting the shared commitment to friendship and cooperation between Alaska and India,” it added.

Alaskan governor Mike Dunleavy urged Alaskans to join Indians in Republic Day celebrations.

“I, Mike Dunleavy, Governor of the State of Alaska, do hereby proclaim January 26, 2026, as Republic Day of India in Alaska and encourage all Alaskans to join in recognizing the contributions of the Indian community and the enduring bonds between Alaska and India,” he stated.

Washington Governor Bob Ferguson also signed a similar proclamation.

“I, Bob Ferguson, governor of the state of Washington, do hereby proclaim January 26, 2026, as Republic Day of India in Washington, and I encourage all residents to join in recognizing the achievements of the Indian and Indian American communities and the enduring bonds of friendship between Washington and the Republic of India,” he said.

Nebraska, too, recognised India's importance for the state.

“I, Jim Pillen, Governor of the State of Nebraska, do hereby proclaim the 26th day of Januaгу, 2026, аs Republic Day of India in Nebraska, and I encourage all citizens to join in recognizing the contributions of the Indian community and the enduring bonds between Nebraska and India. In witness of, I have hereunto set my hand and cause the Great Seal of the State of Nebraska to be affixed this twenty-second day of January, in the year of our Lord Two Thousand Twenty-six,” the proclamation read.

“I would like to extend our heartfelt wishes to the people of India, on behalf of the people of Montana. In Montana, we deeply appreciate the contributions of the Indian and Indian-American community to our State's cultural, educational and economic life. Your commitment to innovation, learning and community enriches all. As you commemorate India's 77th Republic Day, I wish you a healthy and prosperous year ahead,” he said in a video message.

In another message, Governor of South Dakota (US), Larry Rhoden, congratulated India on Republic Day.

“Congratulations on 77th years of the Republic of India. I met with Consul General Gupta twice last year, and both meetings were very refreshing...I am confident that the United States and India will continue building an even stronger relationship,” he said.