Haldwani, Feb 14 (UNI) Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday declared that India is ready to host the 2036 Olympics, expressing confidence that Indian athletes will shine on the global stage.
He was addressing the closing ceremony of the 38th National Games at Haldwani in Uttarakhand, where he lauded the nation’s progress in sports infrastructure and performance.
The event saw the presence of Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, and Union Minister of State for Road, Transport and Highways Ajay Tamta, along with several other dignitaries.
Shah stated that with the successful conduct of the National Games, Uttarakhand, known as ‘Dev Bhoomi’, has now transformed into ‘Khel Bhoomi’ due to the extensive sports infrastructure developed across all districts of the state.
He credited Chief Minister Dhami for Uttarakhand’s significant rise from 21st to 7th place in terms of the country’s sports infrastructure. Congratulating the athletes from Uttarakhand for their outstanding performance, he said that they had truly transformed the state into a land of sports.
The Home Minister commended the organising committee and sports federations for their role in successfully hosting the Games in a small state like Uttarakhand. He highlighted the scale of the event, noting that around 16,000 athletes competed in approximately 435 events. He underscored the essence of sports, emphasising that the true message lies in the spirit of victory and resilience in defeat.
Looking ahead, Shah announced that the next National Games will be hosted by Meghalaya, providing athletes with another opportunity to excel. He also mentioned that some events will be held across the Northeast to ensure the entire region is engaged in the sporting spirit.
The Home Minister noted that the 38th National Games integrated eco-friendly practices alongside competitive sports, setting an example for sustainable sports events. He pointed out that new national records were achieved in disciplines such as weightlifting, shooting, and athletics, raising hopes for India’s success in international competitions.
Praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiatives, Shah asserted that a significant transformation has taken place in India’s sports landscape. He highlighted that Modi, as the former Chief Minister of Gujarat, had introduced the ‘Khelo Gujarat’ initiative, which has since evolved into extensive national sports development efforts.
The Home Minister noted that sports infrastructure has been developed across several districts, athletes and coaches have received increased support, and the selection process has been made more transparent, enhancing India’s global sports reputation.
Shah expressed confidence in the bright future of Indian sports, crediting programmes like Fit India and Khelo India for inspiring youth participation. He reiterated that the essence of sports lies in perseverance, stating that every loss should be an inspiration for future victories. He mentioned that athletes affectionately refer to PM Modi as a “Khel Mitra” due to his support for the sporting community.
Highlighting the growing investment in Indian sports, he revealed that the national sports budget has risen from ₹800 crore in 2014 to ₹3,800 crore for 2025-26. He compared India’s medal tally over the years, noting that the country won 15 medals in the 2014 Commonwealth Games, which has now increased to 26.
Similarly, India’s medal count in the Asian Games rose from 57 in 2014 to 107, while the Para Asian Games tally surged from 33 to 111 medals. Shah emphasised that India’s athletes have excelled in international competitions, showcasing the country’s strengthened sports infrastructure and competitive spirit.
The Home Minister remarked that Uttarakhand’s successful hosting of such a major sporting event indicates that every Indian state is not only ready to compete in sports but also equipped to enhance its infrastructure. He highlighted the role of the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) in preparing athletes for international success.
Expressing India’s ambition to host the Olympics, he stated that India has formally bid for the 2036 Games and expressed confidence that future Olympians from Uttarakhand will bring home medals, making the nation proud.
Shah also paid tribute to the 40 soldiers martyred in the 2019 Pulwama terrorist attack. He stated that their sacrifice ensured national security and was met with a decisive response under Prime Minister’s leadership, which included a cross-border airstrike against terrorist hideouts. He asserted that India’s firm stance against terrorism has altered the global perception, sending a clear message that the country’s borders and military strength are inviolable.
