India has taken a significant step towards hosting the 2036 Olympic and Paralympic Games, submitting an official Letter of Intent to the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
According to reports in the local media, the bid crafted by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) in collaboration with the government, emphasizes India’s vast cultural diversity, its legacy as a hub along the ancient Silk and Spice Routes, and its message of global peace through “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” — the world is one family.
Competing with nations like Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey, India has entered the race to bring the Olympics to the subcontinent for the first time.
Indian officials involved in the bid noted that hosting the Olympics is a “national priority” backed by government and corporate support.
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently championed the bid, and the proposal reflects his vision, extending India’s soft power message and aiming to leave a legacy of sporting and social benefits for the region.
Experts told the India Today that India’s unique position as the “only major economy yet to host the Games” is seen as an impetus for the IOC to consider the transformative economic, social, and cultural impact that the event could bring to South Asia.
With more than 600 million Indians under 25, the Games could create extensive opportunities in infrastructure, services, and tourism, supporting India’s economic trajectory.
Though the letter did not specify a host city, Ahmedabad is seen as a frontrunner, with the Gujarat government establishing a dedicated cell, the Gujarat Olympic Planning and Infrastructure Corporation, to prepare for the Games.
Prime Minister Modi reiterated his intent last year at the IOC’s 141st session in Mumbai, where he committed to “leaving no stone unturned” in achieving this “age-old dream” of bringing the Olympics to India.
The 2036 Olympic host will be chosen following a competitive process expected to conclude in 2026 or 2027, with India joining nine other countries vying for the honour. If selected, the 2036 Olympics would represent a landmark moment, marking India’s entry onto the global sports stage and empowering its next generation of athletes.
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