India Takes Aim at Hosting 2036 Olympics: A Game-Changer for Sports Development
New Delhi, Jun 17: The Indian government is moving forward with its ambitious plan to host the 2036 Olympics, aiming to create world-class infrastructure, boost the economy, and tackle pressing social issues affecting the country's youth.
In an exclusive interview, Raksha Khadse, Minister of State for Sports, revealed that hosting the Olympics was not just a token gesture, but a thorough plan aimed at transforming India's sports landscape. "Preparing to host events like the 2036 Olympics or the 2030 Commonwealth Games is about creating world-class infrastructure, economic investment, and legacy systems that directly benefit athlete development," she asserted.
Khadse argued that hosting the Games would serve as a galvanizing force socially, promoting a fitness movement and enhancing national output. She also emphasized the need for accountability in sports governance, ensuring athletes are put first while maintaining autonomy for administrators.
The ambitious bid comes with projected costs rivaling those of other major Olympics, including the 2024 Paris Games (over USD 9 billion) and the 2028 Los Angeles Games (more than USD 7 billion). India will need to navigate logistical challenges, including coordinating administrative systems between the Ministry of Sports, National Sports Federations (NSFs), and the Indian Olympic Association.
Addressing the issue of doping, Khadse advocated for a multi-pronged approach, prioritizing education and awareness alongside stringent penalties. "We want to start compulsory anti-doping education for athletes, coaches, and parents, as well as randomised testing at State and Junior Levels," she said.
India's bid is expected to pick up pace in the coming months with discussions with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and Lausanne. As the country moves forward with its ambitious plan, stakeholders are optimistic about the transformative impact hosting the Olympics will have on India's sports development.
"We are ensuring that every rupee spent has a long-term multiplier impact," Khadse assured. The 2036 Olympics bid is set to revolutionize Indian sports governance, tackling issues of accountability and doping while fostering world-class infrastructure and economic growth.