In a series of big developments, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi used his Independence Day address to note India's ambitions in the sporting world and targets the country hopes to achieve in the coming years. Among the big goals mentioned in his speech was India's wish to host the 2036 Olympic Games, with the Prime Minister reiterating his wish to bring the global sporting spectacle to the country.
Good news for Indian athletes
Modi also revealed plans for a nationwide talent identification programme to discover young talented talents from all over the country. The initiative is set to provide young athletes with better sporting infrastructure, professional coaching and other essential resources, helping build a solid core of athletes capable of delivering results for India major international events.
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He also noted the significance of helping Indian athletes take part in newer events that the contingent has failed to qualify in recent times.
"We have resolved our aspiration to host the 2036 Olympic Games in India. However, looking ahead to 2036, in all those sporting disciplines where India does not compete today, where India fails to qualify, and the events that have remained untouched—where nearly three-fourths of the sporting arena is waiting for us—India will now place strong emphasis on mastering them," said PM Modi.
More details on Talent Hunt
The Prime Minister also highlighted India's plans to expand its presence across a wide range of sports at the Olympics. As part of this plan, the country aims to identify and groom athletes capable of competing in events where India has traditionally had limited representation. Modi said the nationwide talent hunt would play a crucial role in this effort, with the aim of fielding Indian athletes in three to four additional disciplines by the 2026 Olympics.
"We have decided that in 2036, we should participate in at least three-fourth events. We are launching a nationwide talent hunt for children aged 5 to 15 to identify prospects in every corner of the country. They will get special training to become world-class athletes," he said.