India aims to solidify its 2036 Olympics bid during Paris 2024
India is set to make a significant push to solidify its bid for hosting the 2036 Olympics during the Paris Olympics 2024. The Indian sports administration is putting its best foot forward to strengthen its chances of bringing the prestigious event to the country for the first time.
A detailed report has been presented by the Sports Authority of India’s Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) to the new Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya. The report outlines India’s preparedness and strategic plans for the 2036 Olympics bid.
"We met the new Sports Minister yesterday and handed him the report. The minister said he will need a few days to go through it. But he asked us to prepare another report on how sports can be a career option in the country, how to build interest among youth, how to bring private players into sports," said a senior MOC member to PTI on conditions of anonymity.
India seems to be ahead in its preparations for the Olympic bid, but significant lobbying with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) during the Paris Games is crucial.
"We are way ahead in preparing for the Olympic bid, which will take place after Paris. But we will have to do a lot of lobbying with the IOC during the Paris Games, and we are completely prepared," the member added.
Several factors need consideration before pitching the bid to host the Olympics, and the Indian sports administration appears ready for the challenge.
"The sports ministry asked the MOC to prepare a detailed report about our readiness for the 2036 Olympics, including identifying new sporting disciplines which a host nation can pitch for, how to control the doping menace, bringing more accountability in the working of the national federations and identifying private entities who are interested in investing in sports," the member continued.
Which sport is India planning to include in the 2036 Olympics?
The decision on the 2036 Olympics host is still far off and is likely to occur after the IOC elects its new president next year. If India wins the bid, the MOC has identified six sports to include in the Olympics to enhance India’s medal tally.
"We researched in detail and identified six sports in which are strong. We are masters in yoga, chess, cricket, and kho kho is our traditional sport. So these sports will enhance our medal chances. We have already submitted our report to the ministry which will take it up with the PMO in due course of time." the member added.
Before being introduced as medal sports in the 2036 Olympics, these sports must be added as demonstration events in the 2032 Brisbane Games. Additionally, these sports must be played in all five participating continents to be eligible for the Olympics, as per the IOC guidelines.
"But these indigenous sports will have to be introduced as demonstration events in the 2032 Olympics. Besides, India will have to extend support and ensure that a minimum number of countries, which is around 70 plus, have federations in place there. We will also have to extend coaching support to them and help them in organizing international tournaments. So plenty of tasks are still left," the MOC member continued.
The Indian administration will need to assist other participating countries in building a sporting structure for these sports. The journey to hosting the Olympics is long and arduous, but the Indian administration is committed to securing the rights.