NEW DELHI: India has expressed interest in hosting the 2030 Commonwealth Games and has proposed to conduct all the disciplines that were excluded from the 2026 edition in Glasgow.
The primary objective behind this proposal is to ensure that India’s medal tally remains unaffected when the event is held in Glasgow. The last date to submit an ‘Expression of Interest’ to host the 2030 CWG is March 31, and the sports ministry is expected to initiate the process soon.
“We are interested in hosting the 2030 Commonwealth Games and a formal interaction has taken place with the Commonwealth Games Federation on this. We have also proposed that all the disciplines that have been removed from the 2026 CWG be held in India,” a source told PTI.
The ministry’s push to have the axed events of the 2026 edition in India stems from the fact that key sports such as hockey, badminton, wrestling, cricket, and shooting were dropped from the program by the host city Glasgow.
This decision was made to keep the event budget-friendly and streamline logistics, as only four venues will host the entire showpiece.
India had previously proposed a similar arrangement for the archery and shooting competitions of the 2022 CWG in Birmingham, which was approved by the CGF and the host city. However, the idea could not be executed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In addition to the Commonwealth Games, India is also eyeing the hosting rights of the 2036 Olympic Games. A letter of intent was sent to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) last year, and further progress is expected after the IOC elections conclude next month.
It is worth noting that India last hosted the Commonwealth Games in 2010, and the country’s interest in hosting major sporting events reflects its ambition to establish itself as a prominent destination for international sporting competitions.
