New Delhi: A high-level meeting convened to review India’s preparations for the 2026 Commonwealth Games also witnessed discussions regarding the country’s ambitious bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games, with Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi participating virtually alongside senior officials.
The review meeting was chaired by Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and attended in person by senior representatives of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA).
Officials said the primary agenda of the meeting was to assess India’s preparations for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. However, discussions also touched upon the future roadmap for India’s bid to host the 2036 Olympics in Ahmedabad.
Olympic bid discussed during review meeting
According to sources familiar with the discussions, Gujarat representatives joined the meeting mainly to discuss the 2030 Commonwealth Games, which Ahmedabad is scheduled to host.
During the closing ceremony of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, the ceremonial baton is expected to be handed over to Ahmedabad as the next host city for the 2030 edition.
Officials said the discussion gradually expanded to include India’s larger Olympic ambitions and possible steps required to move the 2036 Olympic bid process forward once the International Olympic Committee resumes host selection activities.
Although no major policy decision was taken during the meeting, participants reportedly discussed future strategies and coordination efforts necessary for strengthening India’s candidature.
India had officially entered the “Continuous Dialogue” phase of the Olympic host selection process after submitting an Expression of Interest to host the 2036 Olympics in Ahmedabad in October 2024.
IOC host selection process currently paused
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) had temporarily paused the host selection process last year to review and reconsider the criteria for future Olympic host cities.
Sports officials expect the process to regain momentum either towards the end of this year or during early next year.
India’s Olympic ambitions have gained increasing political and administrative support in recent years, with Ahmedabad emerging as the proposed host city due to its rapidly developing sports infrastructure and urban expansion projects.
Experts believe hosting major international events such as the 2030 Commonwealth Games could strengthen India’s position in the race to host the Olympics.
Focus on Commonwealth Games preparations
Apart from Olympic-related discussions, the meeting extensively reviewed preparations for the 2026 Commonwealth Games scheduled to be held in Glasgow during July and August.
The Sports Ministry stated that the review focused on ensuring smooth coordination among stakeholders and strengthening support systems for Indian athletes preparing for the Games.
Officials discussed arrangements related to athlete logistics, training support, accommodation and operational management during the event.
Authorities are also planning to establish an “India House” during the Games to support Indian athletes, officials and delegations.
The initiative is expected to provide logistical assistance, cultural representation and coordination support for the Indian contingent during the competition.
Inter-ministerial coordination reviewed
The meeting also assessed progress made in inter-ministerial coordination efforts led by the Sports Secretary in collaboration with multiple government departments.
Officials from the Ministry of External Affairs, tourism and culture departments are reportedly involved in planning operational and logistical arrangements linked to India’s participation in the Commonwealth Games.
Sources said coordination among ministries remains an important aspect of ensuring smooth travel, accommodation, security and overall support for athletes and officials.
The government is also working on broader promotional and cultural activities aimed at strengthening India’s international sporting presence during the event.
India pushing for larger global sporting role
India’s active pursuit of major international sporting events reflects the country’s growing ambition to establish itself as a global sports destination.
The successful hosting of events such as the Cricket World Cup, G20 meetings and various international tournaments has encouraged authorities to pursue larger sporting opportunities, including the Olympics.
Sports analysts believe the upcoming Commonwealth Games preparations and future hosting responsibilities could play a crucial role in demonstrating India’s organisational capability before the IOC.
With the Olympic host selection process expected to restart in the coming months, discussions around India’s 2036 Olympic ambitions are likely to intensify further.
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