New Delhi: The Union Cabinet of India, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Wednesday (August 27) officially approved the submission of India’s bid to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, designating Ahmedabad as the proposed host city. The decision also included the signing of the Host Collaboration Agreement (HCA), requisite guarantees from multiple ministries and departments, and a commitment of grant-in-aid to the Gujarat government, contingent on the success of the bid. Ahmedabad was specifically lauded as an “ideal” venue due to its world-class stadiums, advanced training facilities, and vibrant sporting culture.
Prior Preparations by IOA and Sports Ministry
This Cabinet approval follows a series of coordinated moves. On August 13, 2025, during a Special General Meeting in New Delhi, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) formally approved the bid, naming Ahmedabad among the leading contenders to host the Games. The IOA emphasized that the 2030 edition would be a “full-fledged” event, including all core sports, contrasting with the pared-down 2026 Games in Glasgow.
Why Ahmedabad?
Ahmedabad’s candidacy has been significantly bolstered by ongoing infrastructure investments, including the planned Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave—a sprawling Rs 6,000-crore, 236-acre complex featuring the Narendra Modi Stadium, a 50,000-seat football stadium, an 18,000-seat indoor arena, a 12,000-seat aquatics centre, athlete accommodations, and more. The city is also enhancing transport infrastructure with a Rs 3,130-crore airport expansion, metro and BRTS extensions, and developing hospitality and convention facilities, including a 17-storey hotel and a Rs 792.5-crore convention-cum-business centre.
A high-level delegation from Commonwealth Sport completed a three-day inspection of Ahmedabad’s venues in early August 2025, further affirming the city’s suitability. Officials highlighted India’s strong infrastructure, government backing, and a thematic focus on sustainability and cultural diversity in the bid. The event is also seen as a strategic precursor toward India’s larger goal of hosting the 2036 Olympics in Ahmedabad.
Check Out The Timeline:
March 2025: Expression of Interest submitted; IOA and Sports Ministry initiate bid process.
August 13, 2025: IOA formally approves the bid during an SGM in New Delhi.
Early August 2025: Commonwealth Sport delegation inspects Ahmedabad venues.
August 27, 2025: Union Cabinet approves formal bid submission, host collaboration agreement, and financial guarantees.
By August 31, 2025: Final bid dossier due.
November 2025: Commonwealth Sport General Assembly decides on the host.
