The Ireland India Council officially launched Ireland India Day 2026 at Trim Castle Hotel, marking the beginning of one of Ireland’s premier celebrations of Irish–Indian friendship, culture, education, business and international cooperation. Set against the magnificent backdrop of the historic Trim Castle, the launch brought together elected representatives, senior public officials, business leaders, academics, community representatives and members of the media to unveil this year’s programme ahead of Ireland India Day 2026, which will take place on Sunday, 30 August 2026, at Trim Castle Hotel, County Meath.
The launch was honoured by the presence of Cllr Sarah Reilly, Cathaoirleach of Meath County Council; Cllr Joe Fox, Trim Municipal District, a longstanding supporter of the Ireland India Council; Cllr Maria Murphy, Ratoath Municipal District; and Mr Des Foley, Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Services, Corporate Governance, Human Resources, Management and Emergency Services, Meath County Council. They were joined by representatives from business, academia, community organisations and the wider Irish and Indian communities.
Welcoming the distinguished guests and dignitaries, Prashant Shukla, Chairman of the Ireland India Council, expressed his sincere appreciation for their continued support and acknowledged the collective efforts of those who have helped strengthen the enduring relationship between Ireland and India. He recognised the presence of Mr Damien Nee, Co-Chair of the Ireland India Council; Dr Leo O’Brien, Director of Education; Mr Malay Bose; Mr Gagan Vasisth; Mrs Aparna Shukla, Cultural Coordinator; members of the Ireland India Council Organising Committee; volunteers; and representatives of the Indian student community, whose dedication and commitment continue to make a significant contribution to Ireland’s cultural, educational and economic landscape.
Addressing the gathering, Mr Shukla reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to deepening Ireland–India relations through trade, investment, education, innovation, tourism and cultural exchange.
Speaking at the launch, Mr Shukla said: “Ireland India Day has become one of Ireland’s foremost platforms celebrating the enduring friendship between Ireland and India. As our two nations continue to strengthen their strategic partnership, and as the European Union and India move towards concluding one of the world’s most significant Free Trade Agreements, Ireland India Day 2026 will provide an important forum for government, business, academia and our communities to build new partnerships, encourage investment and celebrate the shared democratic values that unite our nations.”
Welcoming the event to County Meath, Cllr Sarah Reilly, Cathaoirleach of Meath County Council, praised the Ireland India Council for bringing Ireland India Day to Trim and highlighted the importance of cultural diversity, international friendship and community engagement in enriching local communities. The elected representatives present also welcomed the event and expressed their support for hosting this landmark celebration in County Meath.
Theme for Ireland India Day 2026 “Bridges of Heritage, Gateways of Trade: Celebrating Irish–Indian Friendship in the EU Era.”
Reflecting this year’s theme, Ireland India Day 2026 will celebrate the growing strategic partnership between Ireland and India while highlighting the expanding opportunities arising from closer cooperation between the European Union and India.
Programme Highlights will include a Ireland–India Business & Trade Symposium, Business, investment and innovation networking, Cultural performances celebrating the traditions of Ireland and India, Tourism, education and enterprise exhibitions, Family-friendly cultural experiences, Recognition of individuals and organisations making outstanding contributions to Irish–Indian relations and Networking opportunities for entrepreneurs, investors, educational institutions and community organisations
Established in 2002, the Ireland India Council has spent more than two decades strengthening bilateral relations between Ireland and India by promoting trade, investment, education, tourism, cultural understanding and people-to-people engagement. Today, Ireland India Day is recognised as one of Ireland’s leading platforms for celebrating the dynamic and evolving partnership between the two countries.
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