Prime Minister Narendra Modi has formally announced India's preparations "with full strength" to host the 2036 Olympic Games, marking a clear statement of intent during the inauguration of the 72nd National Volleyball Championship in Varanasi today, January 4. This declaration positions India as a serious contender in the race to secure the world's premier sporting event. Indian Olympic Association Delegation Pushes India’s 2036 Olympic Bid in Ahmedabad Through High-Level Talks With IOC.

Speaking during the opening via video conference, Prime Minister Modi emphasized that India has successfully hosted several international events in the past decade and is gearing up for the Commonwealth Games 2030.

"In the past decade, more than 20 major international events have been held in various cities, including the U-17 FIFA World Cup, the Hockey World Cup, and major chess tournaments. The 2030 Commonwealth Game will be held in India. India is preparing with full strength to host the 2036 Olympics,” PM Modi stated.

Formalizing the Bid

Modi's address to the IOC delegates served as an official signal of India's entry into the competitive bidding process. He assured the committee of India's commitment to delivering a memorable and impactful Olympic Games, should the opportunity arise.

The Prime Minister underscored India's capabilities in hosting large-scale international events, citing its economic growth and developing infrastructure as key assets.

Vision for a Future Olympics

India envisions a 2036 Olympic Games that is sustainable, inclusive, and leverages the nation's rich cultural diversity. The bid aims to showcase a modern India while adhering to the Olympic values of excellence, friendship, and respect.

While specific host cities have not been officially named by the government, cities like Ahmedabad, with its burgeoning sports infrastructure, have been frequently mentioned in discussions surrounding a potential bid. India Planning for Multi-City Approach to Host 2036 Olympic Games Having Ahmedabad at Centre: Report.

India's Growing Sporting Ambition

The push to host the Olympics aligns with India's broader strategy to elevate its standing in the global sporting arena. Initiatives like "Khelo India" have aimed to promote grassroots sports and identify talent, contributing to a more sports-conscious population.

Hosting the Games would not only provide a significant boost to sports infrastructure and athlete development but also present an unparalleled opportunity for India to project its soft power on the international stage.

The Bidding Process Ahead

The formal bidding process for the 2036 Olympics involves several stages, including a "dialogue phase" with the IOC's Future Host Commission. This will involve detailed presentations, technical evaluations, and discussions on various aspects such as infrastructure, sustainability, and legacy plans.

India will face competition from other nations that have expressed interest, including Indonesia, Mexico, Poland, Qatar, and Turkey. The IOC is expected to make a decision on the 2036 host city several years in advance, following thorough assessments. Commonwealth Games 2030: Ahmedabad Named Host of Centenary Edition.

Challenges and Opportunities

Hosting an event of the Olympics' magnitude presents significant logistical and financial challenges, requiring extensive planning for infrastructure, security, and sustainability. However, the opportunities for economic growth, tourism, and inspiring a new generation of athletes are substantial.

India's formal declaration marks the beginning of a multi-year effort to convince the international sporting community of its readiness and capability to host the 2036 Olympic Games, aiming to leave a lasting legacy for the country and the Olympic movement.

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(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 04, 2026 02:38 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).