India is setting its sights on becoming a top-five sporting nation by 2047, coinciding with the centenary of its independence. This ambitious goal was announced by Union Minister of Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs and Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya.
Mandaviya highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision and the significant strides India has made in the sporting sector under his leadership. These advancements include reforms aimed at strengthening infrastructure, promoting athlete development, and ensuring effective governance.
The Minister addressed the opening ceremony of the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships in Ahmedabad, where he emphasized the government's commitment to creating a robust sporting ecosystem within the country. He noted that the Sports Governance Bill, introduced in the last Parliament session, is an athlete-centric bill that prioritizes the representation of women in National Sports Federations.
India has also formally bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games. Mandaviya expressed optimism that the country will break into the top ten sporting nations within the next decade. Key initiatives such as the Target Podium Olympic Scheme (TOPS) are providing elite athletes with international exposure and support to enhance their performance. Furthermore, the recently introduced Sports Policy is designed to empower sports science, expand access to sports, and develop modern infrastructure.
The Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships 2025, held at the Veer Savarkar Sports Complex in Naranpura, featured 291 athletes from 30 Commonwealth countries competing for 144 medals. Mandaviya stated that events like these will inspire emerging athletes and encourage them to pursue excellence. He also praised Ahmedabad for successfully hosting the championship, calling the event a reflection of India's growing sporting prowess. Mohammed Hasan Jalood, President of the International Weightlifting Federation, lauded the outstanding organization and infrastructure, calling the occasion significant for Indian sports.
