The Commonwealth Games, one of the biggest multi-sport events in the world, could be coming back to India after 20 years. This time, the event is not likely to be held in New Delhi, but in a new city that is ready to welcome athletes and fans from all over the world.
Ahmedabad Leads the Race
Why Ahmedabad?
- Ahmedabad, a major city in Gujarat, is at the front of the line to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games.
- The city has modern sports facilities, including the huge Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave.
- Ahmedabad has already hosted big events like the 2023 Cricket World Cup final and international concerts, showing it can handle large crowds and global attention.
How Did Ahmedabad Become the Favorite?
- Many other cities and countries were interested in hosting the Games, but most dropped out because of high costs and other challenges.
- Canada, which hosted the first Commonwealth Games in 1930, wanted to host the 100th edition in Hamilton, Ontario. However, they withdrew because of financial issues.
- Nigeria also showed interest, but their plans did not move forward.
- With fewer competitors, India’s bid became much stronger.
India’s Big Plans for Sports
A Step Towards the Olympics
- India is not just aiming for the Commonwealth Games. The country also wants to host the 2036 Olympics, with Ahmedabad as the main city for that event too.
- Hosting the Commonwealth Games in 2030 would help India prepare for even bigger sporting events in the future.
- The Indian government, sports officials, and Olympic Association are all working together to make this happen.
Recent Actions
- Indian officials, including sports ministers and leaders from Gujarat, have met with Commonwealth Games leaders in London to discuss the bid.
- Commonwealth Games officials are planning to visit Ahmedabad to see the city’s sports facilities and preparations before the final bid deadline.
What Makes Ahmedabad Ready?
Key Points About Ahmedabad’s Bid
- The city has some of the largest and most modern sports venues in India.
- The Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave can host many sports, including swimming, boxing, gymnastics, kabaddi, and cricket.
- Other sports complexes in the city are ready for athletics, judo, and shooting.
- Ahmedabad has good transport, hotels, and other facilities needed for a global event.
Benefits for India
- Hosting the Commonwealth Games would boost India’s image as a global sports destination.
- The event would bring economic benefits, more jobs, and new opportunities for local businesses.
- It would also inspire young athletes across the country.
What Happens Next?
The Bidding Process
- The Commonwealth Games Federation is now using a new way to choose host cities. They want to make the Games affordable, use existing venues, and leave a positive impact on the host city.
- India has already submitted its official interest to host the Games.
- The final decision on the host city will be made later this year, after officials review all the bids and visit the cities.
Looking Ahead
- If India is chosen, it will be the second time the country hosts the Commonwealth Games, after the 2010 edition in New Delhi.
It will also be the fourth major multi-sport event in India, after the Asian Games in 1951 and 1982, and the 2010 Commonwealth Games.
