Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President, Dr. P.T. Usha, has commended the Gujarat government for its significant efforts in developing world-class sports infrastructure, bolstering India's ambitious bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games. The praise came during the IOA's Annual General Meeting held in Ahmedabad on Friday.
High-Level Presentation Impresses IOA
Ahead of the official AGM proceedings, the Gujarat government delivered a detailed presentation to the IOA's office-bearers. The presentation meticulously outlined the facilities and infrastructure projects being developed specifically with an Olympic bid in mind. Ajay Patel, the Senior Vice President of the IOA, confirmed the presentation and noted the presence of key dignitaries including Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi and Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya.
Patel stated that the presentation focused on the infrastructure aimed at strengthening India's proposal. He added that everyone present was extremely satisfied with the proactive steps being undertaken by the state administration.
Ahmedabad on the Path to Becoming a Sports Hub
Addressing a press conference after the AGM, the legendary athlete PT Usha shared her positive impressions. She highlighted the rapid development of new sports facilities in Ahmedabad, specifically mentioning the indoor stadium where the IOA event was held. "Ahmedabad is on its way to become a sports hub in the future," Usha remarked, emphasizing the quality of work.
"They presented very nicely. Everyone was happy with the steps being taken by the Gujarat government," the IOA President added, reinforcing the collective approval from the association's leadership.
Building on a Foundation of Major Events
This push for the 2036 Olympics is not an isolated endeavor. The confidence in Ahmedabad's capability is built on recent successes. The city was recently awarded the hosting rights for the 2030 Commonwealth Games, a major multi-sport event that will serve as a crucial test run.
Furthermore, the vision for the Olympics aligns with statements from the highest levels of government. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has previously declared India's aspiration to host the 2036 Games. As part of this grand plan, he announced that ten large stadiums will be constructed at the Sardar Patel Sports Complex in Motera to accommodate the mega-event. Last month, Shah expressed his confidence that Ahmedabad would successfully secure the hosting rights for the 2036 Olympics.
The combined efforts of the IOA, the Union government, and the Gujarat administration signal a determined and structured campaign to bring the Olympic Games to India for the first time in history, with Ahmedabad poised to be at the center of this historic bid.
