India's Ambitious Plans: 2030 Commonwealth Games and 2036 Olympics

Key Takeaways

India is set to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games.

Preparations are underway for the 2036 Olympics.

Emphasis on transparency and world-class infrastructure.

Contrast with past CWG experiences highlights improvements.

Major international sporting events expected in succession.

New Delhi, March 11 (NationPress) Anurag Thakur, the former Sports Minister and BJP MP, emphasized that India is gearing up to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games (CWG) on an exceptional level while simultaneously seeking to secure the rights to host the 2036 Summer Olympics.

Last November, India was officially confirmed as the venue for the Centenary Commonwealth Games in 2030. The event is set to take place in Ahmedabad, building upon the successes of Glasgow 2026, allowing India to celebrate the centenary with grandeur.

In discussing India's preparations for this multi-sport event, Thakur remarked to IANS, "The execution of sporting events in India is evolving; they are becoming larger and more impressive than ever. The 2030 Commonwealth Games are anticipated to be conducted on a vast scale, and we are also laying the groundwork to host the 2036 Olympics."

Thakur added that India is making determined and continuous efforts to secure the rights for the 2036 Olympic Games. "It is hoped that India will successfully obtain the hosting rights for the 2036 Olympics, leading to a succession of major international sporting events in the country," he stated.

Previously, Ashwini Kumar, Principal Secretary for Ports and Transport in Gujarat, remarked that India's preparations for the 2030 Commonwealth Games are characterized as "meticulous, confident, and driven by a robust team," with expectations to complete all significant preparations "by late 2028 or early 2029."

Reflecting on India's past experience with the CWG in 2010, Thakur contrasted the current scenario with the previous one, highlighting that the 2010 Delhi Games were overshadowed by corruption allegations under the then-UPA government. In contrast, the present administration has established a foundation of transparency along with world-class infrastructure.

"During the UPA regime, discussions surrounding the Commonwealth Games were predominantly about corruption rather than the events themselves," he stated.

In the 2010 CWG held in New Delhi, India secured a total of 101 medals, including 38 gold, with 30 medals from shooting alone. In the 2022 edition, India achieved 61 medals, including 22 gold, although shooting was not part of the Birmingham edition.

Point of View

India's preparations for the 2030 Commonwealth Games and the potential hosting of the 2036 Olympics reflect a significant commitment to enhancing its global sporting stature. This proactive approach suggests a renewed focus on transparency and infrastructure development, contrasting sharply with past experiences.

NationPress

9 Aug 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the 2030 Commonwealth Games?

The 2030 Commonwealth Games mark the centenary of the event, making it a significant milestone for India as it aims to host the games in Ahmedabad on a grand scale.

How is India preparing for the 2036 Olympics?

India is actively pursuing the rights to host the 2036 Olympics, with ongoing efforts to enhance its sporting infrastructure and event management capabilities.

What lessons were learned from the 2010 Commonwealth Games?

The 2010 Commonwealth Games were marred by corruption allegations; however, the current administration emphasizes transparency and improved infrastructure to ensure success for future events.

What were India's medal tallies in previous Commonwealth Games?

India won 101 medals, including 38 gold, in the 2010 CWG and secured 61 medals, including 22 gold, in the 2022 edition.

Who is Anurag Thakur?

Anurag Thakur is the former Sports Minister and a BJP MP, known for his role in promoting sports and major events in India.