New Delhi, Nov 11 (NationPress) The Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports, and Labour & Employment, Mansukh Mandaviya, officially launched the King’s Baton for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games (CWG) at DLF Avenue, Saket. The ceremony was attended by Lindy Cameron, the British High Commissioner to India, and Dr. P.T. Usha, President of the Commonwealth Games Association of India.

The event, organized by the Commonwealth Games Association of India (CGAI), included notable Olympic and CWG medallists such as Yogeshwar Dutt, Achanta Sharath Kamal, and Gagan Narang, along with high-ranking officials from the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, the Commonwealth Games Federation, and the Sports Authority of India.

The Baton, crafted by acclaimed Indian visual artist Aaquib Wani, symbolizes the vibrant essence of India's art, sports, and sustainability—core themes of this year's relay. Its design draws from India's rich cultural and natural heritage, merging traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics that showcase the nation's diversity and creative spirit.

During the Baton unveiling, Dr. Mandaviya expressed, “The King’s Baton Relay epitomizes the values that bind the Commonwealth — harmony, perseverance, and progress. The Baton’s artwork encapsulates our nation's essence, steeped in culture yet forward-thinking. It showcases how art and sport can inspire sustainability and growth. India has always championed the power of sport to unify people and nations, and this moment reinforces that sentiment. As the Baton journeys across the globe, it carries a message of friendship, equality, and our collective pursuit of a brighter, united future.”

Lindy Cameron remarked, “The King’s Baton Relay stands as a significant emblem of the lasting partnership between the United Kingdom, India, and the broader Commonwealth community. Delhi’s commemoration of this occasion reflects our shared values — friendship, inclusivity, and progress through sport. The Baton’s design, inspired by India's artistry and commitment to sustainability, exemplifies how creativity and collaboration can transcend borders and inspire generations throughout the Commonwealth.”

Commenting on the event, P.T. Usha stated, “The Baton Relay is a powerful reminder of how sport unites communities and encourages excellence. As it travels through Delhi, it not only celebrates athleticism but also India's artistic legacy and dedication to sustainability. This moment strengthens our shared belief in unity through sport.”

The 2026 Commonwealth Games are set to unfold from July 23 to August 2, 2026, in Glasgow, Scotland. This marks the fourth occasion Scotland will host the Games, following earlier events in Edinburgh (1970 and 1986) and Glasgow (2014).

The Baton will be publicly showcased in Delhi from November 12 to 14 at DLF Avenue Mall, before proceeding to Ahmedabad on November 14 for the subsequent segment of its relay.