New Delhi: India’s bid for the 2030 Commonwealth Games, slated to be hosted in Ahmedabad, is set to feature both cricket and hockey, alongside a selection of indigenous Indian sports. Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya confirmed that two traditional Indian sports are likely to be included in the elaborate event program.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that a delegation from Commonwealth Sport, led by its President Donald Rukare, visited India last week to assess the preparation status in Ahmedabad, the designated host city. The delegation engaged in discussions with Minister Mandaviya regarding timelines for efficient delivery and legacy planning to ensure optimal utilization of infrastructure post-Games.
Mandaviya indicated that sports such as Kabaddi, Mallakhamb, Kho-Kho, and Yoga are under consideration for inclusion. He expressed optimism that two of these indigenous disciplines would make the final cut for the Games roster.
The Minister also provided a firm confirmation that cricket and hockey, which were absent from the upcoming Glasgow Games, are guaranteed to return for the 2030 edition. This is expected to form part of a 17-sport lineup. The Glasgow Games will showcase only 10 disciplines, with India’s strong medal contenders like shooting, wrestling, and badminton being omitted to manage overall costs.
“Both cricket and hockey will be there,” Mandaviya asserted, underscoring the significance of their inclusion.
The Commonwealth Sport delegation reportedly departed with a positive impression of India and its initiatives, particularly the Khelo India Scheme, which has engaged over 60,000 athletes from more than 30 states and Union Territories.
Already confirmed disciplines for the 2030 Commonwealth Games include athletics and para athletics, swimming and para swimming, table tennis and para table tennis, bowls and para bowls, weightlifting and para powerlifting, artistic gymnastics, netball, and boxing. It is a requirement for the Commonwealth Games to include at least two sports from hockey, T20 cricket, and rugby sevens.
Minister Mandaviya had previously outlined plans for a nationwide campaign involving iconic athletes and youth leaders to build enthusiasm and momentum for the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad. This initiative aims to galvanize public support and participation.
India will be hosting the Commonwealth Games for the first time in two decades, with the nation’s sole previous hosting experience being the 2010 event in Delhi. India secured the hosting rights for the 2030 Games last year, overcoming competition from Nigeria. The country is also actively pursuing the opportunity to host the Olympic Games in 2036, with Ahmedabad also being considered for this event.
A detailed planning process involving 23 ministries is currently in progress to ensure the successful execution of the 2030 Commonwealth Games. This multi-ministry approach aims to coordinate efforts across various government departments for seamless delivery.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
