In a historic address at the 141st International Olympic Committee (IOC) Session hosted at the Jio World Centre in Mumbai, Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented India’s fervent desire to host the Olympics and Youth Olympics in the near future, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s sporting history.
The Prime Minister’s arrival was greeted with warm embraces by key dignitaries, including Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Ministers Ajit Pawar and Devendra Fadnavis. Their presence underscored the collective unity and enthusiasm of Indian state governments for this momentous occasion.
Prime Minister Modi passionately articulated India’s bold vision to host the Olympics in 2036, emphasizing the unwavering commitment of India’s 1.4 billion citizens towards transforming this dream into reality. He pledged that no stone would be left unturned in ensuring the successful organization of this prestigious event.
In a proactive and assertive gesture, PM Modi extended an invitation to host the 2029 Youth Olympics, unequivocally demonstrating India’s readiness to make a substantial contribution to the global sports arena. He expressed confidence in India’s continued support from the IOC to turn this vision into a reality.
PM Modi underscored the profound connection between sports and Indian festivals, highlighting the cultural significance of sports in the country. He emphasized the universal spirit of sports, where every participant is either a victor or a learner, reaffirming the empowering essence of sports for humanity.
The Prime Minister also took pride in India’s privilege to host the IOC Session for the second time, a remarkable occurrence after a 40-year interval since the previous session held in New Delhi in 1983. This event signified a significant milestone in India’s sports diplomacy.
The IOC Session featured distinguished figures, including the President of the International Olympic Committee, Thomas Bach, alongside renowned Indian sports personalities and representatives from various sports federations. Adding a touch of glamour and cultural richness to the occasion, Bollywood actors Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Deepika Padukone graced the event, showcasing India’s cultural vibrancy on the global stage.