US House introduces resolution on India's Independence Day

Ami Bera, Co-chair of Congressional Caucus on India and Indian-Americans, has introduced a resolution to recognize India's Independence Day and the significance of the US-India partnership.

The resolution introduced by the lone Indian-American lawmaker commemorates the 68th anniversary of India's Independence Day on August 15, and celebrates the contributions of Indian Americans in various sectors of the American society.

"As the world's oldest democracy and the world's largest democracy, the US and India share common values and the growing partnership between the two countries makes sense," it said.

The resolution also recognizes the importance of continuing and growing the strategic partnership between the United States and India to further common goals of supporting democracy, pluralism, and rule of law.

With a population of more than 1.2 billion people, the Republic of India is the world's largest democracy, and shares a commitment to promoting human rights and freedom, it said.

Mentioning the economic dimension of the US relationship with India, which is based on trade and investment interests, the resolution said these ties have helped create jobs and growth in both countries.

"On this Independence Day anniversary, and as the son of Indian parents, I'm proud to recognize the contributions of this community to our military efforts, law enforcement, scientific innovation, and so many other aspects of public life," said Bera.

The resolution was co-sponsored among others by Tulsi Gabbard, the only Hindu-American in the House, Joseph Crowley, Vice Chair of the Democratic Caucus, Elliot Engel, top Democrat on House Foreign Affairs committee, and George Holding, co-chair of Congressional Caucus on India and Indian-Americans.