Virginia will celebrate January 26 as Indian-American Day in recognition of the community's contribution to the state.

A legislation to this effect was recently passed by its Legislature.

"Over the past year, I have come to realise how much the Indian-American community contributes to the Commonwealth. In appreciation of their efforts and all they have done for the Commonwealth and its people, it is my pleasure to announce the creation of Indian-American Day in Virginia," Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling said.

Lawmakers guided House Joint Resolution 609 on observing the Indian-American Day coinciding with India's Republic Day through the House of Delegates and the Senate of Virginia and it has been communicated to the governor for his consideration.

Bolling had worked closely with Delegates Dave Albo and Tim Hugo, both of Fairfax County, to draft and pass the legislation.

"The face of Virginia is changing and the immigrant community is a powerful force in urban and suburban Virginia," Bolling said adding, that he wanted to do everything he could to reach out to the immigrant community and build a "better" Virginia.

"During my campaign for lieutenant governor I made a promise to the Indian-American community. I promised to do my best to develop closer ties with them and involve them more in the leadership of Virginia," he said.

There are about 50,000 Indian-Americans in Virginia.