IOA Gives Official Green Light in New Delhi
The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has officially approved the country’s bid to host the India’s 2030 Commonwealth Games. The decision was taken during a Special General Meeting (SGM) held in New Delhi on August 13, 2025. This marks a crucial milestone for India’s ambitions to once again host a major international multi-sport event, two decades after the 2010 Games in New Delhi. The final set of bid documents is expected to be submitted by August 31, 2025.
Ahmedabad Positioned as Prime Host City
Ahmedabad has emerged as the leading contender to host the event, thanks to its rapidly developing sports infrastructure and ambitious urban planning. The bid is also seen as part of India’s long-term strategy to secure the 2036 Olympic Games.
Central to Ahmedabad’s bid is the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave—a massive 236-acre Olympic-standard complex currently under development. The enclave will include:
- Narendra Modi Stadium – the world’s largest cricket venue
- 50,000-seat football stadium
- 18,000-seat indoor arena
- 12,000-seat aquatics centre
- Athletes’ village
- Multiple hotels and commercial spaces
Delegation Visit Boosts Momentum
A delegation from Commonwealth Sport, led by Director of Games Darren Hall, visited Ahmedabad recently to inspect the venues and meet with senior Gujarat government officials. This visit played a vital role in refining India’s proposal before the submission deadline.
According to IOA officials, the existing infrastructure, combined with the state’s commitment to sports development, provides a strong foundation for a winning bid. The proposal emphasizes sustainability, gender equality, and alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Officials are also determined to create a Games legacy that surpasses the controversies surrounding the 2010 edition.
Full-Scale Games with Indigenous Sports
Unlike the reduced 2026 Games in Glasgow, India is proposing a full-format edition of the India’s 2030 Commonwealth Games. IOA leaders, including Joint Secretary Kalyan Chaubey and Executive Council Member Rohit Rajpal, confirmed that the bid will include core sports such as shooting, wrestling, and archery—disciplines in which India has historically excelled.
The plan also features indigenous sports like kabaddi and kho kho, showcasing India’s cultural heritage while boosting medal prospects. This approach aims to make the Games not just a competitive spectacle but also a celebration of Indian identity on the world stage.
Strong Government Support and Urban Development
Ahmedabad’s bid is strongly backed by both the Gujarat state government and the central government. Several large-scale projects are already underway to strengthen the city’s readiness for hosting.
Key developments include:
- ₹3,130-crore expansion of Sardar Vallabhbhai International Airport to double passenger capacity by 2030
- Improvements to the city’s metro and Bus Rapid Transit System
- Construction of a ₹792.5-crore convention and cultural centre
- Development of new hotels
To ensure environmental responsibility, the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad is conducting an impact assessment study. The aim is to create a carbon-neutral and sustainable event, drawing inspiration from recent global best practices.
Competitive Edge and Global Context
India’s chances have improved significantly after Canada’s withdrawal from the bidding race. While Nigeria and a few other countries remain in contention, experts believe India is now a frontrunner. The final decision will be made at the Commonwealth Sport General Assembly in Glasgow in November 2025.
The last time India hosted the Games was in 2010 in New Delhi, where the country achieved its best-ever medal tally, finishing second overall. Hosting the 2030 edition would not only be a return to the global sporting stage but also serve as a stepping stone toward India’s Olympic ambitions.
Key Milestones Ahead
- August 31, 2025 – Deadline for submitting final bid documents
- November 2025 – Commonwealth Sport General Assembly vote
- By 2029 – Completion of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave and supporting infrastructure
- 2030 – Centenary edition of the India’s 2030 Commonwealth Games
A Vision Beyond 2030
The India’s 2030 Commonwealth Games are more than just a sporting event for India—they represent national pride, global recognition, and sustainable growth.
For Ahmedabad, this bid is an opportunity to position itself as an international sports hub. For India, it’s a chance to demonstrate organizational excellence and strengthen the case for hosting the Olympic Games in 2036.
If successful, the Games will showcase athletic brilliance while highlighting India’s ability to deliver world-class events, rooted in cultural traditions and sustainability practices.
