Ahmedabad Proposed as Host for the 2036 Olympics
CLAT Current Affairs 2026 | Prepared by CLAT Gurukul
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Why in News?
India has formally proposed Ahmedabad as the host city for the 2036 Olympic Games, marking the country’s strongest bid yet to host the world’s most prestigious multi-sporting event. This announcement came after a high-level delegation from India met with the top brass of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in Lausanne, Switzerland.
This is the first time the Indian proposal has been officially communicated to the IOC, showing a clear commitment from the Indian government, Gujarat state officials, and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA).
The Olympics: A Brief Overview
What are the Olympics?
The Olympic Games are the world’s foremost sports competition, held every four years, featuring summer and winter sports in which thousands of athletes from around the globe participate.
Origin and History
The ancient Olympics were held in Olympia, Greece from 776 BCE to 393 CE. The modern Olympic Games began in 1896 in Athens, Greece, initiated by Pierre de Coubertin, with the aim of promoting peace and unity through sport.
Governing Body
The Games are managed by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), headquartered in Lausanne, Switzerland.
Ahmedabad’s Bid: Key Highlights
- For the first time, India has officially conveyed its intention to host the Olympics.
- The Indian delegation included members from:
- The Union Sports Ministry
- The Gujarat Government
- The Indian Olympic Association (IOA)
- The proposed venue for the games is the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave in Ahmedabad, which is under construction.
Why Ahmedabad?
- It is already being developed as a world-class sports hub.
- Its connectivity, infrastructure, and proximity to key cities make it a practical choice.
- Hosting the games here aligns with India’s plan to showcase its economic strength, diversity, and diplomatic presence.
IOC’s Response and Process
The IOC has currently paused the host city selection process. However, the Indian delegation was told that a working group will be formed to study and resume the selection process after addressing governance issues and member concerns.
The pause was primarily due to concerns over internal IOC policies, finances, and the complexity of hosting such mega events.
India’s proactive step sends a message to the IOC that it is ready, serious, and globally capable.
Why is India’s Bid Crucial?
- India’s Demographic Power:
- Over 600 million youth could be inspired to engage in sports.
- A successful Olympic Games would be a catalyst for sports development.
- Cultural Projection:
- Opportunity to share India’s ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (“The World is One Family”) on a global stage.
- Geopolitical Significance:
- Joining the elite club of Olympic host nations would elevate India’s soft power.
- With China, Japan, and South Korea having hosted Olympics, India’s bid helps balance Asian representation.
- Infrastructure Boost:
- Development of roads, stadiums, green spaces, and accommodation would significantly benefit Ahmedabad and surrounding regions.
- Economic Impact:
- Host nations benefit from tourism, foreign investment, and job creation.
- Long-term legacy infrastructure and sports culture development.
India’s Past Olympic Participation
India has been a regular participant in the Olympics since 1900. Its most prominent achievements include:
- Field Hockey: 8 Gold Medals
- Neeraj Chopra’s Gold in Javelin (Tokyo 2020)
- Individual Gold Medals: Abhinav Bindra, Neeraj Chopra
- Expansion in sports: Shooting, Badminton, Wrestling, Boxing
Hosting the games will further encourage participation and training.
How Are Olympic Host Cities Chosen?
The selection process typically involves:
- Initial Application: A city expresses interest through its NOC (National Olympic Committee).
- Feasibility Studies & IOC Review
- Bidding Phase: Shortlisted cities submit a detailed proposal.
- Evaluation Commission Visit
- Final Vote by IOC Members
India is currently at Phase 1, where it has officially expressed its interest and intention.
The 2036 Race: Who Else is Competing?
As per current reports, India may face competition from:
- Saudi Arabia
- Indonesia
- Germany
- Poland
- Mexico
- South Korea
- Turkey
- UK (joint bid from Manchester or London)
India’s timely diplomatic push may give it a first-mover advantage.
Quotes from Indian Officials
Harsh Sanghavi, Gujarat Sports Minister:
“We are eager to be a true partner of the IOC. We hope to realise this dream of bringing the Olympics to India.”
PT Usha, IOA President:
“An Indian Olympics would not be just a spectacle, but a movement. It will be a generation-defining moment.”
Glossary of Terms
Term | Explanation |
IOC | International Olympic Committee – the governing body of the Olympic Games. |
NOC | National Olympic Committee – every country has one; India’s is the IOA. |
Host City Contract | Legal agreement between IOC and host city ensuring delivery of the Games. |
Olympic Charter | The codified rules and values of the Olympic Movement. |
Sardar Patel Sports Enclave | Mega sports infrastructure project in Ahmedabad proposed for hosting. |
Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam | Sanskrit term meaning “The World is One Family”; India’s global slogan. |
Conclusion
India’s formal bid for the 2036 Olympic Games, with Ahmedabad as the host city, is a historic moment. It demonstrates a clear ambition to rise on the global sports and diplomatic stage.
Whether or not the bid succeeds, it marks the beginning of a new era of sports, infrastructure, and youth mobilization in India.
