Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday repeated India’s goal of hosting the 2036 Olympics and launched a countrywide search for young sporting talent among children aged five to 15. Speaking from the Red Fort on the 80th Independence Day, he noted India’s improving results in international events and its growing case to host the Games. He pointed out that roughly two-thirds of Olympic sports see no Indian participation or qualification. Modi also confirmed India will stage the 2030 Commonwealth Games. To prepare for 2036, a talent identification program will run in every village, city and school, with selected athletes receiving special training. India recently placed fourth at the Commonwealth Games with 39 medals despite missing several key disciplines. Strong showings came in boxing, judo, weightlifting and para events.
