In a significant move that underscores its ambition to become a global sporting powerhouse, the Indian government has formally approved a bid for Ahmedabad to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games (CWG). The decision, cleared by the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday, sets the stage for India's potential return to the mega-sporting event after two decades.
This bid, if successful, would mark the second time India hosts the prestigious event, following the 2010 edition in New Delhi. The approval includes provisions to sign the necessary Host City Collaboration Agreement and extends a commitment of financial support from the central government to the state of Gujarat for the successful execution of the games.
Ahmedabad: The Proposed Epicenter
The government has positioned Ahmedabad, Gujarat's largest city, as the centerpiece of its proposal. The city's modern infrastructure, particularly the massive Narendra Modi Stadium, is a key selling point. The stadium has already proven its mettle on the world stage, having hosted the electrifying final of the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup between India and Australia, along with multiple Indian Premier League (IPL) finals.
Officials emphasized that the city possesses the necessary facilities and capacity to comfortably accommodate athletes, officials, and visitors from the 72 participating nations and territories that constitute the Commonwealth Games Federation.
A Stepping Stone to a Larger Ambition
Beyond the immediate event, India’s bid is widely seen as a strategic stepping stone towards a much larger goal: hosting the Olympic Games. A successful Commonwealth Games would serve as the ultimate proving ground for India's operational, logistical, and managerial capabilities. The government has explicitly stated that hosting the CWG could pave the way for a proposal to host the Olympics in 2036 or in the near future, with Ahmedabad again being a likely candidate.
Projected Economic and Social Windfall
The government projects substantial multi-sectoral benefits from hosting the event. An official statement highlighted that the Games would generate significant employment, provide a massive boost to tourism, and act as a catalyst for industries including transport, media, event management, and information technology.
"Hosting the CWG in India would leave a lasting impact boosting tourism, creating jobs and inspiring millions of young athletes," the statement read. It further noted that a large number of professionals would gain opportunities in diverse fields such as sports science, event operations, logistics, broadcast, and public relations.
The Road Ahead
The Cabinet's approval includes the crucial guarantees from relevant ministries and departments, a mandatory requirement set by the Commonwealth Games Federation as part of the bidding process. India is expected to face competition for the hosting rights. While Canada and Nigeria had initially shown interest, Canada has since withdrawn from the process.
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