Ahmedabad secures hosting rights; Yoga proposed as new medal event
India has officially secured a monumental victory in the world of international sports administration. On Wednesday, the Commonwealth Sport’s General Assembly in Glasgow formally ratified Ahmedabad as the host city for the 2030 Commonwealth Games. This centenary edition of the Games marks a significant milestone, with India eager to showcase its growing soft power and infrastructural capabilities.
Push for Yoga and Return of Core Sports
One of the most exciting developments is India's strategic push to include Yoga as a competitive medal sport. As the host nation, India holds the privilege of proposing up to two new sports. Officials believe that introducing Yoga on such a massive platform aligns perfectly with its global popularity.
Furthermore, there is good news for Indian sports fans regarding traditional strongholds. While the 2026 Glasgow edition scaled back significantly, the 2030 itinerary is expected to feature a robust programme of 15 to 17 sports. This expansion likely paves the way for the return of T20 cricket, badminton, hockey, shooting, and wrestling—disciplines where Indian athletes historically excel.
Infrastructure and "Golden Era"
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his delight on social media, emphasizing that this achievement places India firmly on the global sporting map. Dr. Donald Rukare, President of Commonwealth Sport, echoed this sentiment, describing the bid win as the beginning of a "new golden era" defined by India's scale and youth.
Learning from the challenges of the 2010 New Delhi Games, officials have assured a seamless and controversy-free experience. The Gujarat government, led by the intense preparations at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (SVP) Sports Enclave and the Karai Sports Hub, aims to have all major venues ready by late 2028 or early 2029. To test their readiness, these venues will likely host the World Police and Fire Games in 2029.
A Stepping Stone for 2036
The implications of this win extend far beyond the Commonwealth. Hosting the 2030 Commonwealth Games is widely viewed as a critical dress rehearsal for India’s ultimate ambition: securing the rights to host the 2036 Olympics. By delivering a flawless event in Ahmedabad, India aims to prove its reliability as a world-class sporting destination.
Current plans suggest the event will be held in October 2030 to avoid the summer heat, promising a comfortable environment for athletes and spectators alike.
