In a key move towards realizing India’s ambition of becoming a global sports leader, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) officially submitted a Letter of Intent to the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) Future Host Commission on the 1st of October , signaling the nation’s intent to host the 2036 Olympics and also Paralympic Games.
"This marks a significant step forward in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision to bring the Olympic and Paralympic Games to India in 2036," a source stated. "This landmark opportunity could drive economic growth, social development, and youth empowerment across the country," they elaborated further.
Prime Minister Modi has persistently expressed his desire for India to host the 2036 Olympic Games. During an interaction with Indian athletes ahead of the Paris Olympics, he sought their feedback on preparation for the major 2036 event.
"India is preparing to host the 2036 Olympics. The insights of athletes who have competed in past Olympic Games are invaluable. We want to document your experiences to ensure we don't miss any important details in our preparations," PM Modi had stated earlier.
At the 141st IOC Session in Mumbai last year, Modi reaffirmed India's enthusiasm for hosting the Olympics in 2036, emphasizing that over 1.4 billion Indians are determined to bring the Games to the country. "We will leave no stone unturned in our efforts to organize the Olympics in India in 2036.
This is the cherished dream of 1.4 billion Indians, and it will be realized with your support and cooperation," he stated. IOC President Thomas Bach also voiced strong backing for India’s bid, describing it as a "strong case" to host the Games.
India is one of ten countries that have shown interest in hosting the 2036 Olympics. In November 2022, the IOC began dealing with these countries, which included Mexico (Mexico City, Guadalajara-Monterrey-Tijuana), Indonesia (Nusantara), Turkey (Istanbul), India (Ahmedabad), Poland (Warsaw, Krakow), Egypt (New Administrative Capital), and South Korea (Seoul-Incheon).
The final decision on the host city will be made through a discreet selection process led by the IOC’s Future Host Commission.