India Sets Sights on 2036 Olympics: Ahmedabad Emerges as Potential Host City
Discover India’s ambitious bid for the 2036 Olympics in Ahmedabad, aligning with global aspirations and ‘Soft-Power’ strategies.
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In the wake of Abhinav Bindra’s historic gold in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, India has nurtured the dream of hosting the Olympics. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s announcement at the International Olympic Committee session in Mumbai marked a pivotal step, expressing India’s determination to bid for the 2036 Olympic Games, with Ahmedabad as the prospective host city.
The bid aligns with India’s ‘Soft-Power’ strategy, following the successful G20 Summit hosting, showcasing global ambitions, and fostering a sports culture. Ahmedabad, known for its plans to construct the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave, emerges as the chosen city for this ambitious endeavor, diverging from the tradition of the national capital as the host.
The proposed sports complex, near the colossal Narendra Modi International Stadium, aims to feature five grand sports stadia, including a 50,000-capacity football arena, two indoor arenas (18,000 and 10,000 capacity), a 12,000-seat aquatics center, and a 10,000-capacity tennis center. Additionally, plans involve refurbishing the existing 132,000-seat Narendra Modi Stadium and a makeover for the Sabarmati riverfront.
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The Gujarat government, through the Gujarat Olympic Planning and Infrastructure Corporation Limited (GOLYMPIC), is tasked with infrastructure delivery. Construction is set to begin in October 2024, aiming for completion by October 2027. The government’s preparedness will be tested as it eyes the 2030 Youth Olympics.
As India officially declares its bid, it joins nine other countries, including Mexico, Indonesia, Turkey, Poland, Egypt, and South Korea, expressing interest in hosting the 2036 Games. The official bid submission marks the next crucial step in the process.
The Future Hosts Commission will oversee the selection process, emphasizing sustainability and financial prudence. With a focus on legacy utilization and gender parity, the IOC encourages using existing infrastructure to mitigate costs. However, the bidding process itself poses financial challenges and India braces for the arduous journey ahead.
–IANS