India has formally declared its intention to host the 2036 Olympic Games, marking a historic bid that shines a spotlight on one of the world’s most populous nations. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) submitted an official letter to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) on October 1, confirming its participation in the competition to host the Olympic event. If successful, India would become the fourth Asian country to host the Olympics, following Japan, South Korea, and China.
This announcement comes amid a growing field of nations expressing interest in hosting the 2036 Games. Countries like Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Chile, Indonesia, Poland, and Germany have also signaled their intent to bid. However, India has taken the lead by formalizing its bid, giving it an early advantage in the competition and marking a milestone in its sports history and international ambitions.
AHMEDABAD AS THE POSSIBLE HOST CITY
While the IOA has yet to officially designate a host city, local media have pointed to Ahmedabad, in the state of Gujarat, as the leading candidate. This city has seen significant investments in sports infrastructure in recent years, driven by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who previously served as Gujarat’s chief minister. The region aims to establish itself as a hub of economic and cultural development, bolstering Ahmedabad’s bid for the Olympic Games.
Ahmedabad’s selection is also likely influenced by the city’s expanding sports infrastructure. In recent years, facilities have been constructed and renovated to international standards, positioning the city as a sporting landmark in India. This, combined with Modi’s ties to the region, strengthens the Indian government’s commitment to the bid.
HISTORY IN HOSTING INTERNATIONAL EVENTS
India has previously hosted other major sporting events, including the Asian Games in 1982 and the Commonwealth Games in 2010, both held in New Delhi. These experiences provide a foundation to take on the Olympic challenge, though hosting the Olympics would require an unprecedented level of investment and planning, something the Indian government appears ready to pursue.
Hosting smaller-scale sporting events has been a significant step for India in establishing itself as an international sports destination. The country hopes that, if chosen to host the Olympics, the necessary infrastructure and logistics will enhance its global image and commitment to sports.
INCLUSION OF LOCAL SPORTS
One of the most innovative aspects of India’s bid is the proposal to include indigenous sports such as yoga, kho-kho, and kabaddi in the Olympic program. These sports have deep cultural roots in India and represent its unique sporting heritage. Including them would not only highlight India’s rich traditions but could also draw global attention to lesser-known sports in the Olympic realm.
Additionally, with cricket set to debut as an Olympic sport at Los Angeles 2028, India is optimistic about its medal prospects in a sport that is wildly popular in the country. Success in cricket could boost India’s competitive edge in future Olympics, especially if it secures the host position for 2036.
CHALLENGES OF THE BID
Despite the enthusiasm, India faces several challenges in realizing its Olympic aspirations. The country has a modest Olympic history, with only 41 medals accumulated over its participation. However, recent successes in Paris 2024, where India won six medals, indicate a positive trend the nation hopes to continue in upcoming editions.
The logistics and investments required to host an event of this scale are also significant challenges for India. The Olympics demand advanced infrastructure and planning across transportation, accommodation, and security sectors. Experience from other international events will be crucial, but the country will need to elevate its organizational capacity to meet Olympic standards.
A DREAM FOR OVER 1.4 BILLION INDIANS
For India, hosting the Olympic Games represents more than a sporting event; it’s an opportunity to unite its 1.4 billion people around a shared dream. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has publicly declared that the country will spare no effort in making this dream a reality.
With this bid, India aims to establish itself as a key player in the Olympic movement and project its influence on the global stage. As the country embarks on this journey toward 2036, it hopes that the support of its population and the government’s commitment will be decisive factors in fulfilling its Olympic dream.
