Daijiworld Media Network – Lausanne

Lausanne, Jul 2: In a historic stride toward hosting one of the world’s largest sporting spectacles, India has officially submitted its bid to host the 2036 Summer Olympic Games, selecting Ahmedabad as the proposed host city. A high-level Indian delegation comprising officials from the Union Sports Ministry, the Government of Gujarat, and Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president PT Usha held formal discussions with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) at its headquarters in Lausanne on Tuesday.

This crucial meeting marks India’s first formal expression of interest to host the Games, even as the IOC has temporarily paused its host selection process for future editions. The move signifies India’s growing ambition on the global sports stage and its intent to bring the Olympics home for the very first time.

Ahmedabad, which boasts rapidly developing infrastructure and a growing global profile, was presented as the centerpiece of India’s Olympic aspirations. According to a statement released by the Indian delegation, the discussions were fruitful in outlining India’s vision while receiving key insights from the IOC regarding the technical and logistical frameworks needed to host the Games.

The proposal envisions the Olympics as a once-in-a-generation opportunity for India’s youth, offering 600 million young citizens the chance to witness the sporting mega-event on home soil. Rooted in the ancient Indian philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the world is one family—the bid seeks to create a truly inclusive and welcoming Games.

"We are eager to be a true partner to the IOC in the coming months of this process and, hopefully, in the years to come, as we work together to realise this shared ambition," said Gujarat Sports Minister Harsh Sanghavi, following the meeting.

IOA President and legendary athlete PT Usha expressed hope and confidence in India’s vision. “The Olympic Games in India would not just be a spectacular event, they would be one of generational impact for all Indians,” she stated.

India's bid for the 2036 Games places it in competition with other interested nations including Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Turkey, and Chile. However, with recent changes announced by newly appointed IOC President Kirsty Coventry, the host selection process has now been put on hold. The IOC will be forming a working group to reassess the selection timeline and ensure greater involvement of its members.

“There was overwhelming support from the IOC members for a pause and a review of the future host election process,” Coventry announced after chairing her first Executive Board meeting.

Despite the temporary pause, India’s delegation remains optimistic. The bid positions India as a serious contender in the Olympic movement, and with Ahmedabad at the heart of its plans, the dream of hosting the Olympics is no longer distant—it is officially on the global roadmap.