India’s innovative leadership on the global stage was celebrated by American entrepreneur and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates during the inaugural Indian Independence Day event at the newly opened Indian Consulate in Seattle.
Gates, who was the guest of honor at the event, emphasized India’s key role in driving breakthrough innovations in technology, agriculture and healthcare. Addressing over 2,000 Indian-Americans, he hailed India as a „global leader” and highlighted its contributions to the world, from making affordable vaccines to building a strong Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). He noted that India’s ingenuity not only benefits its citizens but also encourages countries in the Global South to develop their own DPI systems.
The India Day celebrations, marking India’s 78th Independence Day, also featured remarks by prominent dignitaries including Congresswoman Suzanne Delfin, Congressman Adam Smith, Washington Lt. Governor Denny Heck and others. The event showcased India’s cultural diversity with floats and programs representing different parts of the country organized by leaders of the Indian American community.
Five official proclamations were issued by the King County, Bellevue, Portland, Hillsboro and Tigard city councils in honor of the event. Additionally, many iconic buildings in Seattle and Bellevue were illuminated in the colors of the Indian flag.