‘Sports Should Not Be Limited To Entertainment’: PM Modi On India’s 2036 Olympics Dream

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday that India was pursuing its goal of hosting the 2036 Olympic Games and voiced confidence in the ability of young Indians to elevate the country’s sporting achievements.

Speaking at the Golden Jubilee celebrations of Jaigopal Garodia Hindu Vidyalaya in Chennai, PM Modi said hosting prominent global competitions would help aspiring athletes access improved infrastructure, professional support and opportunities to realise their ambitions.

“India is preparing to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games. We are also moving forward with the dream of hosting the 2036 Olympics,” PM Modi said.

PM Modi said staging major sporting events in the country would create opportunities for young people to demonstrate their abilities and develop their potential.

The Prime Minister stressed the need to recognise sports as a viable career path. He further said people should look beyond their role as a form of entertainment.

“Every youngster has their own unique dreams and talents. For example, I am sure there are many of you who want to make sports your career. This is why the country is ensuring that sports should not be limited to entertainment only,” he said.

PM Modi highlighted the growing availability of training and support for athletes. He expressed confidence that the younger generation would help India achieve greater recognition in international sporting competitions.

India formally expressed its interest in hosting the 2036 Olympic and Paralympic Games. It submitted a Letter of Intent to the International Olympic Committee’s Future Host Commission on October 1, 2024.

Six other parties are in dialogue with the IOC: Germany, Hungary, Qatar, the Republic of Korea, South Africa and Türkiye.

The IOC plans to shortlist the interested parties for the next stage by March 2027 and elect the host in mid-2029.

Ahmedabad is preparing to stage the 2030 Commonwealth Games, giving India another opportunity to organise a major international sporting event.

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