India’s Sports Administrators Push for Inclusion of Indigenous Disciplines in 2036 Olympics Bid

India’s sports administrators are gearing up for a major push to host the 2036 Olympics, with plans to include indigenous disciplines like yoga, kho kho, and kabaddi in the Games. The Sports Authority of India’s Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) presented a detailed report to new sports minister Mansukh Mandaviya, outlining the steps needed for a successful bid.

“We are way ahead in preparing for the Olympic bid which will take place after Paris. But we will have to do a lot of lobbying with IOC during the Paris Games and we are completely prepared,” a senior member of the MOC told PTI.

The proposed events, including yoga, kho kho, kabaddi, chess, T20 cricket, and squash, would first need to be introduced as demonstration events in the 2032 Brisbane Games before receiving final approval for the 2036 Olympics.

While the inclusion of these sports could boost India’s medal chances, the road ahead is challenging. The country will need to build a strong foundation for these disciplines and garner support from a minimum number of participating nations.

The MOC member emphasized the importance of preparing for the Games, including addressing doping issues, improving accountability in national federations, and attracting private investment in sports.

If India’s bid is successful, it will face tough competition from other countries vying to host the Games. However, the inclusion of indigenous sports could showcase India’s rich sporting heritage on a global stage.

Overall, India’s sports administrators are optimistic about the country’s chances of hosting the 2036 Olympics and are working diligently to make this ambitious dream a reality.