India’s Commonwealth bid lifts Olympic ambitions
As it considers hosting the 2030 event to strengthen its position as a global sporting hub, the move dovetails with the Asian power’s 2036 Summer Games candidacy, reinforcing its long-term vision of holding major international events, boosting its infrastructure and enhancing its global presence.
The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has initiated discussions with the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) regarding a potential bid for the centenary edition of the Games. If successful, it would be the second time India has hosted the event, two decades after the 2010 Games in New Delhi, which saw a significant expansion of the capital’s sporting infrastructure.
Recent visits by CGF officials, including President Chris Jenkins and Chief Executive Katie Sadlier, have underlined India’s interest in showcasing the Games again. The delegation met with state and central government officials and visited key sites in Ahmedabad, Bhubaneswar, Gandhinagar and New Delhi to assess potential venues. Their inspections focused on the existing sports infrastructure, logistical capabilities and upgrades required to meet international standards.
According to a report in The Indian Express, Ahmedabad has emerged as the frontrunner, with Bhubaneswar also under consideration. The former has gained prominence due to its rapidly developing sports facilities, including the Narendra Modi Stadium – one of the largest cricket venues in the world. In addition, projects such as the upcoming Naranpura Sports Complex and the EKA Arena have boosted the city’s credentials. CGF officials are said to have found these developments encouraging, according to the Business Standard.
Talks took place on the sidelines of the opening ceremony of the National Games in Dehradun, where Jenkins met IOA President P.T. Usha. The proposed bid was a focal point of their discussions, with India keen to use the Commonwealth Games 2030 as a stepping stone towards its 2036 Olympic ambitions. Discussions also covered the wider goal of improving the country’s sports infrastructure, enhancing athlete training facilities and raising India’s global sporting profile.
At the same event, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed his government’s commitment to securing the Summer Games, describing the candidacy as a transformative opportunity for Indian sports and infrastructure.
“We are pushing for the right to host the 2036 Olympics – it will take Indian sports to new heights,” Mr Modi told the assembled athletes. “We see sports as an essential aspect of the country’s development.”
Speaking as the chief guest at the opening ceremony of the 38th National Games, Mr Modi emphasised the far-reaching impact of hosting an event of this magnitude.
“The Olympic Games are not just a sporting event. Wherever the Olympics are held, all sectors benefit. It creates better facilities for athletes, spurs construction, improves connectivity, transport facilities and, most importantly, boosts tourism,” he said. “People from all over the world, including athletes, will come to India.”
With the International Olympic Committee (IOC) not expected to decide on the host city for 2036 until 2026 at the earliest, India is now focusing on preparing a comprehensive bid. Competition is expected to be fierce, with countries such as Qatar and Saudi Arabia also vying for the hosting rights.
“We are creating more and more opportunities for our athletes to realise their full potential,” Mr Modi added. “We see sports as a key driver for India’s overall development.”
Securing the Commonwealth Games would not only serve as a precursor to India’s Olympic aspirations, but would also provide a significant boost to the country’s sports ecosystem. Investments in infrastructure, security and logistics are expected to yield long-term benefits and stimulate growth in the sports industry. In addition, economic factors such as job creation, tourism expansion and increased international cooperation will be taken into account in the feasibility assessment.
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