Our Bureau
Albany, NY
On the occasion of the Indian Constitution’s 75th anniversary, the New York State Senate has officially adopted a resolution honoring it. The resolution celebrates India’s democratic values and acknowledges the Constitution as a framework for the country’s continued progress.
The historic resolution was sponsored by New York State Senator Jeremy Cooney, the only member of the New York State Senate of Indian descent now in office, and it was approved in a ceremony on Wednesday.
Cooney said, “I am introducing this resolution in honour of the 75th anniversary of the Indian Constitution, a time to celebrate Indian independence and the brave Indians who risked their lives for the betterment of their fellow countrymen.”
Since this is the first time a resolution honoring the Indian Constitution has been introduced and approved by a US legislative body, it is a noteworthy development. A number of resolutions have been proposed in the past to mark important festivals, Republic Day, Indian Independence, and other events.
Along with notable members of the Indian-American community in New York, Binaya Pradhan, the Consul General of India in New York, attended the event.
“Celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Indian Constitution! The New York State Senate adopted a resolution commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Indian Constitution, introduced by Senator Jeremy Cooney @SenatorCooney,” the Consulate General of India in New York said in a post on X.
“The resolution celebrates India’s democratic values and its shared commitment to liberty, justice, and equality with the United States. CG @binaysrikant76 joined the ceremony along with members of the Indian-American community, marking a celebration of shared democratic ideals and cultural ties,” it added.
The resolution acknowledges that the Indian Constitution serves as a guiding framework for the country’s continued development and a meaningful reflection of the vision of its founding forefathers.
“This is a day to be celebrated not just in India but worldwide. Across the globe, Indians are making lasting impacts in their communities. This is an opportunity to join together to celebrate and reflect on our shared history, culture and heritage,” Cooney said.
Cooney also talked about how he was raised by a single mother in Rochester, New York, after being adopted from an orphanage in Kolkata, India.
Cooney added further, “This anniversary also holds a special importance for me personally. As many of my colleagues know in the Senate, I was adopted from an orphanage in Calcutta and throughout my life, I have worked very hard to maintain a strong connection with India and Indians in my community. That connection continues today as we honour the 75th anniversary of the Indian Constitution.”
As per the bill, on November 26, 1949, the Indian Constitution was enacted, adopted, and given to the citizens of India and the legislative body is proud to commemorate the 75th Anniversary of the Indian Constitution on Wednesday, November 26, 2025.
In addition to commemorating Constitution Day, the resolution emphasizes how the US and India have similar histories of fighting for freedom from colonial domination. According to the Consulate, it reaffirms the significance of recognizing the rich ancestry of New York’s various communities and a dedication to promoting public knowledge and education about this enduring cultural heritage.
During his speech, Cooney expressed heartfelt pride in his heritage, stating, “I am incredibly proud to celebrate our Indian heritage, and this important landmark with my colleagues and all New Yorkers.” He also emphasized how the US and India share democratic values, pointing out that the words “We the People” are used at the beginning of both constitutions.
