New Delhi: India has taken the first step in its attempt to host the 2036 Olympics by shooting off a Letter of Intent to the Future Host Commission, International Olympic Committee (IOC).
According to reports,Indian Olympic Association (IOA) made the formal bid to host the 2036 Olympics and Paralympics Games in Ahmedabad on October 1.
The decision was taken after several informal dialogues with the IOC regarding the matter. “This monumental opportunity could bring substantial benefits, fostering economic growth, social progress, and youth empowerment across the country,” a source in the sports ministry told PTI.
If its bid is successful, India will become only the fourth Asian country to host the Games, after China, South Korea and Japan. Yoga, kho-kho, kabaddi and chess are among the sports likely to be included in India’s bid, reports added.
While a decision on the host is unlikely before the IOC elections next year and India may face competition from Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkey, keen to host the sporting spectacle.
The Prime Minister had declared India’s intention to host the 2036 Olympics during the opening ceremony of the 141st IOC session in Mumbai in October 2023, claiming that 140 crore Indians are committed to staging the Games.
Later, he sought inputs for the preparations of hosting the quadrennial extravaganza during an interaction with Paris Olympics athletes on the Independence Day celebrations at his residence. He also spoke about the same during his visit to New York in September. “…Only a few days ago, the Paris Olympics concluded. Very soon, you will witness the Olympics in India too. We are putting in all possible efforts to host the 2036 Olympics,” PM Modi said in New York.
IOC President Thomas Bach had also supported India’s case claiming that there was a “strong case” for India to host the Olympic Games.