President Draupadi Murmu extends best wishes to Paris-bound Indian athletes
Indian President Draupadi Murmu offered her support to the athletes who qualified for the Paris Olympics 2024 during her speech in a joint session of Parliament on Thursday, June 27. Furthermore, she has also endorsed India's aim to host the Olympic Games in 2036.
Murmu started off her speech, by highlighting the Modi-led government’s sports initiatives, which helped Indian athletes to achieve a record number of medals over the past few years across various international competitions.
“Today, our youth is getting fresh opportunities even in sports. As a result of the effective efforts of my government, young athletes of India are winning medals on international platforms, in record numbers,” Draupadi Murmu said.
It’s worth noting that India will face tough competition from other nations like Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, and Qatar, who are also eyeing to bid for the hosting rights of the 2036 Summer Games.
“We are proud of all the athletes who will represent India” - President Draupadi Murmu
Encouraged by the support of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Thomas Bach, India is looking firmly ahead to submit the bid for the prestigious hosting rights.
As of now, over 100 Indian athletes have made the cut for the Paris Olympics 2024, including a record 21 shooters. These athletes would be aiming to go past the country's best-ever medal haul of seven, secured during the Tokyo Olympics in 2021.
“Paris Olympics will begin in a few days, we are proud of all the athletes who will represent India. I extend my best wishes to them. To take these achievements further ahead, Indian Olympic Association is preparing to host 2036 Olympics,” she concluded.
Interestingly, India is yet to officially submit its bid for the 2036 Games. The final decision will be taken post-IOC elections in 2025.
However, during the Paris Olympics, the officials from the Indian Olympic Association will be having active discussions with the officials about the nation's candidacy.
President Draupadi Murmu's support for the bid highlights India's dedication to increasing its presence in the international sports arena. Paris Olympics 2024 is all set to start on July 26 and will conclude on August 11.