NEWARK, NJ – U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), a senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, today released the following statement on the 69th anniversary of India’s independence: “To all Indian-Americans in New Jersey and Indians around the world, I extend my warmest congratulations on India’s Independence from British rule. India’s inspiring struggle for independence, marked by non-violent resistance and visionary moral leadership, is a story that continues to inspire the world"

“This Independence Day let us celebrate not only India’s rich cultural heritage but its bright future and the continuing strength of U.S.-India relations. Let us recognize that India, home to one of the world's most diverse and populous democracies, has seen rapid economic growth in the last twenty years and has solidified its role as a regional and global power.

“Here at home, the significant contributions of Indian-Americans to the cultural, economic, creative, inventive, and intellectual tapestry exemplifies the extraordinary benefits to both the United States and India of a strong bilateral relationship. In my state of New Jersey, home to the largest per capita population of Indian-Americans, Indian-Americans have started more companies than any other immigrant group. I am proud to say that New Jersey leads America in start-ups founded by Indian-Americans, while in every state, Indian-Americans have made tremendous contributions in medicine, academia, business, and high-tech industries, and it is no surprise that nine Fortune 500 companies have Indian-American CEOs.

“So today, 69 years after India’s independence from British Rule, I join all New Jerseyans and all Americans in saying: ‘Long live a democratic, free, and independent India. Jai Hind – Victory to India.’” Nearly 3 million Indian Americans live in the United States according to the 2010 Census and many have found great success in government, academia, the arts, and sciences.