PM Modi Applauds India’s ‘Collective Commitment and Sportsmanship’ as Nation Secures 2030 Commonwealth Games

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the nation’s collective effort and spirit of sportsmanship after India was officially awarded the hosting rights for the 2030 Commonwealth Games, with Ahmedabad named as the host city. The announcement was made during the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) General Assembly in Glasgow on Wednesday.

In a post on X, PM Modi wrote: “Delighted that India has won the bid to host the Centenary Commonwealth Games 2030! Congratulations to the people of India and the sporting ecosystem. It is our collective commitment and spirit of sportsmanship that has placed India firmly on the global sporting map. With the ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, we are eager to celebrate these historic games with great enthusiasm. We look forward to welcoming the world!”

The decision marks India’s return as host of the Commonwealth Games after 20 years, sparking celebrations at New Delhi’s Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium.

To commemorate the milestone, the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports (MYAS) organised a special ceremony in the capital, attended by Union Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, top officials from the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), MYAS, and SAI, as well as Olympians, Commonwealth medallists, and sporting icons.

Calling the day “historic,” Dr. Mandaviya highlighted India’s rapid transformation in the sports sector under PM Modi’s leadership. He noted India's recent experience hosting major international events such as the Boxing World Cup, Hockey World Cup, and World Para Athletics, underscoring the nation’s readiness to handle global competitions.

He further stated, “We are getting ready to host the 2029 World Police Games, and these events will strengthen our preparations for the 2036 Olympic Games, which we are hopeful of hosting. The Khelo Bharat Niti and the Sports Governance Act will drive the transformation of Indian sports. In the next 10 years, India will be in the top 10, and by 2047, in the top 5. I urge all athletes to gear up to make the nation proud.”

Dr. Mandaviya also pointed to growing global confidence in India’s hosting capabilities, citing praise from international sports leaders, including World Para Athletics President Paul Fitzgerald, World Boxing President Boris Van Der Vorst, and Cuban Olympic legend Javier Sotomayor.

Earlier, the CGF released an official statement noting that delegates from 74 Commonwealth nations and territories had ratified India’s bid. The statement said India presented a “compelling vision” for the 2030 Games, centred on Ahmedabad and building on the foundations laid for Glasgow 2026.

At the New Delhi ceremony, a specially produced audio-visual film celebrated India’s Commonwealth Games legacy, from medal achievements to hosting the 2010 edition. A laser show and fireworks added to the festivities, culminating in the reveal of the official hashtag: #CWG2030InBHARAT, symbolising India’s aspirations for Viksit Bharat 2047. In line with sustainability commitments, the event used eco-friendly green crackers.

India won 101 medals, including 38 gold, at the 2010 New Delhi Commonwealth Games — with shooting alone contributing 30 medals. In the 2022 Birmingham Games, India secured 61 medals, including 22 gold, despite shooting being excluded.

Ahmedabad now becomes the second Indian and third Asian city to host the Commonwealth Games.

With inputs from IANS