At a morning training session at the Olympic-level shooting range in Pune, located in Maharashtra state, there was a buzz surrounding India’s determination to secure the Summer Games in 2036.
Shahu Mane, a former World Cup champion in the 10-meter air pistol mixed event, emphasized the significance of hosting the Olympics as an unparalleled stage for India. Mane, also a former Youth Olympic Games silver medalist, expressed optimism that the government’s efforts to enhance infrastructure would positively impact both the country and the sport.
A delegation from India visited the International Olympic Committee (IOC) headquarters in Lausanne in July to formally propose Ahmedabad, the largest city in Gujarat, as the host city for the 2036 bid. The final decision is anticipated by late 2027 following extensive preparations that began two years prior to the IOC presentation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the ambition to host the 2036 Olympics during a speech commemorating India’s independence day in 2024, underscoring the successful organization of the G20 summit as evidence of India’s capability to host major international events.
Despite India’s aspirations, challenges such as governance issues within the Olympic Association and historical low medal counts at previous Games pose obstacles to the bid. However, athletes at Pune’s Gun for Glory Shooting Academy remain confident in India’s potential to secure the prestigious event, particularly in disciplines where the country excels.
The construction boom in Ahmedabad, evident in the development of a new sports complex and several planned stadiums, signifies India’s commitment to bolstering its sports infrastructure to sway the IOC in its favor against competing bids from other countries.
The endeavor to host the Olympics aligns with India’s broader strategy to enhance national pride and showcase its economic development. Modi’s government has invested significantly in sports programs, including initiatives like “Khelo India” to support young athletes and aim for a top-five ranking in medal-winning nations by 2036.
While India faces scrutiny over doping issues and governance concerns, the country’s bid for the 2036 Olympics reflects a bold ambition to harness the power of sports for national growth and recognition.
Despite skepticism from experts like Andrew Zimbalist regarding the economic viability of hosting the Games in Ahmedabad, Indian athletes and sports enthusiasts remain hopeful that staging the Olympics would not only offer exposure and inspiration to aspiring athletes but also elevate the profile of sports like shooting in the country.
