India Confident of Hosting 2030 Commonwealth Games, Says Sports Minister Mandaviya

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New Delhi, Apr 10: Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Thursday expressed strong optimism about India acquiring the hosting rights for the 2030 Commonwealth Games, despite Canada and Nigeria also submitting Expressions of Interest (EOI) before the March 31 deadline.

"I got the information that Canada and Nigeria have shown their interest, but we are confident India will get the 2030 Commonwealth Games," Mandaviya said, reinforcing India's growing ambition to become a global hub for mega sporting events.

The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) has faced a difficult task in finding hosts after Victoria, Australia, pulled out from hosting the 2026 edition due to escalating costs. Glasgow has stepped in as an alternative venue but with a significantly reduced programme, dropping key disciplines such as boxing, wrestling, hockey, cricket, badminton, and shooting - events where India has historically excelled.

While interacting with the media, Mandaviya emphasised that winning the bid for the 2030 Games would not only underline India's readiness to host multi-sport global events but also serve as a stepping stone towards its long-term vision of hosting the 2036 Olympic Games.

"Consultation is on with the International Olympic Committee (IOC), and India is ready to make its formal presentation once the new IOC President Kirsty Coventry assumes office in June," he added.

Youth-Led Initiatives on National Integration and Social Upliftment

Beyond the big-picture sporting ambitions, the Sports Minister also unveiled a series of youth-driven initiatives under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports aimed at fostering civic engagement, national pride, and community development.

To mark the birth anniversary of Dr B R Ambedkar on April 14, the ministry, in collaboration with MY Bharat volunteers, will organize Jai Bhim Yatras across all state and Union Territory capitals. These yatras will culminate at statues of Dr Ambedkar, where participants will gather to pay homage. Additionally, cleanliness drives will be conducted near his statues in towns and districts across the country.

Another flagship initiative - the Viksit Vibrant Village Campaign - will be launched in May, aiming to connect the country's youth with India's border villages. Five MY Bharat volunteers will be selected for each of the 100 identified villages through a transparent process on the MY Bharat Portal. These volunteers will engage in immersive learning experiences that promote cultural understanding and national integration.

In June, the Experiential Learning Program will offer young participants hands-on exposure at 1,200 Jan Aushadhi Kendras, where they will learn how affordable medicines are made accessible to millions across the country.

"These initiatives reflect our commitment to both nation-building and empowering the youth to be active participants in shaping India's future," Mandaviya concluded.

As India waits for the CGF's decision on the 2030 Games and prepares its case for the 2036 Olympics, these simultaneous grassroots engagements could offer a compelling narrative - that of a country where sport, service, and national pride go hand in hand.