Ahmedabad: India aims to position itself among the top 10 sporting nations worldwide by the year 2036, coinciding with its ambition to host the Olympics, as stated by Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Monday. He made these remarks during the inaugural International Olympic Research Conference, organized by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) in Gandhinagar.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi has envisioned the hosting of the Olympics in 2036, which reflects India's increasing prowess. As we progress towards becoming a developed nation, we will also commemorate our centenary of independence in 2047. By that time, India is expected to be among the developed countries. The initiative of Fit India is essential for promoting not only physical fitness but also mental well-being among the populace. A person who is both mentally and physically fit contributes significantly to the formation of an ideal society, which in turn fosters a prosperous nation. Thus, sports serve as a representation of our ascending strength," Mandaviya remarked.

The four-day conference is designed to position India as a key player in the global Olympic framework, emphasizing financial sustainability, strategic planning, and collaborative networks to support India's bid for the 2036 Olympics.

"By 2036, Prime Minister Modi has set the target for India to be ranked among the top 10 sporting nations, and by the centenary of our independence, we aspire to be in the top five. To realize this ambition, we must actively participate in competitions and secure victories. Those who triumph leave a lasting legacy and transform their successes into medals. The field of sports science is crucial for improving our medal count. Therefore, when we discuss Olympic research, it encompasses the examination of its social implications, youth engagement, exposure, and international perceptions, all of which contribute to a holistic understanding of Olympic research," he further explained.

Mandaviya emphasized the significant role of BCORE (Bharat Centre of Olympic Research and Education) in advancing India's Olympic aspirations. He noted that sports can offer solutions to various challenges, which is why Prime Minister Modi has launched major initiatives such as Khelo India and Fit India.

This conference is a significant event, featuring the presentation of over 60 research papers. Researchers from various countries engaged in Olympic studies are in attendance. Marking the first of its kind in South Asia, this conference is poised to have a profound impact not only on our nation but also on a global scale. It represents a pivotal advancement in the realm of sports, as articulated by the speaker.

In a video message, Thomas Bach, President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), underscored the necessity of integrating sports and education to foster comprehensive youth development and contribute to nation-building.

He pointed out initiatives such as Khelo India and the Khel Mahakumbh, which have significantly advanced grassroots sports development, encouraged active lifestyles among young people, and played a vital role in cultivating a productive and healthy society. Referring to BCORE as “Bharat Core,” he emphasized its relevance in supporting India’s ambition to become a developed nation by 2027 and its long-term aspirations for the Olympics.

Harsh Sanghavi, the State Minister of Sports in Gujarat, highlighted the state's grassroots sports initiatives, particularly the unprecedented participation in the Khel Mahakumbh. He stressed the importance of integrating sports with youth education and emphasized the essential role of a robust sports culture in equipping India’s youth for international competitions.

Lambis Konstantinidis, Executive Director of Planning and Coordination for the Paris 2024 Olympics, provided a strategic framework for India’s Olympic preparations, emphasizing the significance of sustainable development, effective leadership, and technical proficiency to ensure the success of the sports initiatives.

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