'Mandaviya Meets Coe, Embarks on Roadmap for India's 2036 Summer Olympics Bid'
New Delhi: Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya held a crucial meeting with Sebastian Coe, President of World Athletics and Member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), in New Delhi on Monday. The high-level discussion focused on India's aspirations to host the 2036 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games, as well as strategies to strengthen athletics in the country from the grassroots level to global excellence.
Mandaviya apprised Coe of India's formal Letter of Intent to the IOC, stressing the country's ambition to host a sustainable, inclusive, and culturally inspiring Games in 2036. He highlighted the overwhelming support for the bid from government, industry, and civil society, underscoring India's readiness to showcase its heritage, diversity, and sporting capabilities on the global stage.
"We are committed to sustainability and inclusivity," Mandaviya stated. "India is eager to build on the legacy of previous host cities, incorporating lessons learned to prioritize environmental sustainability and foster cultural unity through sports."
The discussions centered on India's plans to elevate athletics, a cornerstone of the Olympic movement. Mandaviya sought guidance from World Athletics in creating a robust ecosystem for athletic excellence, ensuring more Indian athletes can secure podium finishes at future Olympic Games and other international competitions.
Coe lauded India's efforts to promote athletics and its ambition to host the Olympics. "We look forward to deepening our collaboration with World Athletics to advance our athletes' capabilities, aiming for global recognition in athletics," Mandaviya said.
Mandaviya briefed the delegation on India's evolving sports governance framework, including the draft National Sports Policy 2024, which envisions leveraging sports as a tool for nation-building, fostering economic growth, and developing a grassroots-to-global talent pipeline. The National Sports Governance Bill, currently under public consultation, aims to ensure transparency, ethical practices, and alignment with international standards in managing sports federations.
India's bid for the 2036 Olympics is part of its larger vision to position itself as a global sports powerhouse. The ongoing efforts to bolster grassroots programs, establish governance frameworks, and enhance athlete performance underline India's readiness to take on the monumental task of hosting the Games.