Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Pledge to Bring the Olympics to India, to bid for 2036 Games

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In a historic declaration, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed an unwavering commitment to organise the 2036 Olympics, as India sets its sights on hosting the most significant sporting event on the planet.

This monumental announcement came during the inauguration of the 141st Session of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in India, where the nation unveiled its ambitious roadmap for becoming the future host of this quadrennial extravaganza.

A 40-Year Reunion: The IOC Session Returns to India

After four long decades, the prestigious IOC Session has returned to India. The last time India played host to this event was in 1983, when the world's most influential sporting committee convened in New Delhi. Now, the IOC has set its sights on India again, making this year's session all the more significant for the country.

India's Double Olympic Ambition: 2036 and 2029

Prime Minister Modi's address to the IOC Session was filled with aspiration, as he not only voiced India's desire to host the 2036 Olympics but also expressed a strong wish to host the 2029 Youth Olympics.

These ambitious plans reflect the collective dreams of India's 1.4 billion citizens, fueled by the fervor and enthusiasm of a nation that is rapidly ascending the ranks in economic and sporting prowess.

Support from the Government: India Backs the Olympic Bid

The Indian sports ministry recently announced its full support for the Indian Olympic Association's (IOA) bid to host the Olympic Games. Securing such a major international sporting event is a costly endeavor, with the 2021 Tokyo Olympics estimated to have cost around USD 15 billion, double the initial projections. India's potential victory in this bid would likely see Ahmedabad becoming the host city.

A New Era in Bidding: IOC's Reformed Approach

The IOC's approach to selecting Olympic host cities has undergone significant changes. Rather than following traditional bidding processes, interested countries now present their proposals of interest.

The IOC's Future Host Commission subsequently identifies and recommends a preferred candidate to the Executive Board. The final decision to bring a proposal to an IOC session vote rests with the Executive Board.

India To Face Competition For Olympic Hosting Rights

India faces strong competition in its quest to host the 2036 Olympics, with countries like South Korea, Mexico, Germany, and Italy vying for the same honor. The fierce contest promises a nail-biting selection process to determine who will emerge as the chosen host.

India's Sporting Heritage: A Rich Tapestry of Events

India's history in hosting international sporting events is notable. While the country recently hosted the 2010 Commonwealth Games in New Delhi, it has also organized several other prestigious tournaments, such as the Boxing World Championship and the Asian Wrestling Championship. India's growing status in the sporting world further solidifies its aspirations for hosting the Olympics.

Sports: A Cultural Pillar in India

In his address, Prime Minister Modi underscored the importance of sports in India's culture. He emphasized that practically every Indian festival has a sporting component, highlighting the nation's deeply ingrained connection with athletic pursuits. Modi celebrated the universal spirit of sports, declaring that in this arena, there are no losers; there are only winners and learners.

Olympic President's Encouraging Words

IOC President Thomas Bach greeted the audience with a heartfelt 'namaste' and declared that India's rise in both economic and sporting terms is unmistakable. He highlighted India's impressive performance at the Asian Games, where the country secured an incredible 107 medals. Bach encouraged the Indian Olympic Association to continue its journey of reform in the world of sports.

The Olympic Movement: Embracing E-Sports and AI

Bach underscored the IOC's commitment to evolve with the times. He emphasized the inclusion of e-sports in the Olympic program and the need to trust the perspective of the youth, the future of sports. Bach cited artificial intelligence and e-sports as two areas with significant potential for the Olympic movement. He stated that these opportunities require a fresh mindset and a dedication to IOC values.

E-Sports and AI: A New Frontier

Bach pointed out that over 3 billion people worldwide are engaged in e-sports and gaming. Significantly, the majority of these individuals are under the age of 34. This demographic is essential for the IOC, which has chosen to engage holistically with e-sports. The governing body recognizes the importance of managing the risks and seizing opportunities in the ever-accelerating development of technology.

Paris 2024: The Olympics of the AI Era

Bach concluded by noting that the Paris Olympics in 2024 will mark the transition to the post-artificial intelligence era. The IOC is dedicated to embracing these changes while staying true to its core values.

IOC Session in Mumbai: A Star-Studded Affair

The inauguration of the IOC Session saw the presence of distinguished individuals from various fields. Olympic champion javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra, India's first individual Olympics gold medalist Abhinav Bindra, FIFA President Gianni Infantino, and legendary tennis player Leander Paes, among others, graced the occasion.

The event also saw Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis, and a host of other luminaries in attendance.

India's grand ambitions to host the Olympics signify the nation's journey to becoming a global sporting powerhouse. With its vibrant culture, rich history, and dynamic progress, India is poised to take on the world's most celebrated sporting event.