Indian PM Modi announces nationwide sports talent hunt for 2036 Olympics

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced a nationwide talent hunt aimed at identifying and nurturing young athletes for India's bid to host the 2036 Olympics. Speaking from the Red Fort on the occasion of India's 80th Independence Day, Modi reiterated the nation's ambition to host the prestigious sporting event.

The initiative will focus on children aged five to 15, with a campaign to be conducted in every village, city, and school. The goal is to identify sporting talent, particularly in disciplines where India currently has limited participation or qualification. Modi highlighted that the Olympics feature around 40 sports and nearly 325-350 events, but India does not compete in a significant portion of them.

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We have decided that the Olympics 2036 should be held in India. In the disciplines in which India does not play or qualify, India will focus on these disciplines, and we will launch a talent hunt campaign.

"We have decided that the Olympics 2036 should be held in India," Modi stated. "In the disciplines in which India does not play or qualify, India will focus on these disciplines, and we will launch a talent hunt campaign." The identified talent will receive specialized training to prepare them to represent the country at the highest level.

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We have to pay attention to our sons and daughters. Therefore, a talent hunt campaign will be conducted in every village, every city and every school to identify sporting talent among children aged five to 15.

India's recent performance at the Commonwealth Games saw the country finish fourth with 39 medals, including 13 gold. Despite a reduced program, India achieved strong results in boxing, judo, and weightlifting. The Prime Minister also mentioned India's upcoming hosting of the Commonwealth Games in 2030.

The contingent is currently preparing for the Asian Games, scheduled to be held in Japan from September 19 to October 4.

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Their talent will be identified and, after providing them specialised training, they will be prepared to become good players representing the country.