The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has officially approved India’s proposal to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games. The decision came during the IOA’s Special General Meeting held in New Delhi, marking an important moment in the country’s sporting history. If successful, it would be the first time in 20 years that the Games return to India.
Ahmedabad in Gujarat has been proposed as the leading contender to host the 2030 Games, but Odisha and Delhi are also in the mix due to their strong sporting infrastructure. Ahmedabad boasts world-class venues like the Narendra Modi Stadium and has experience in hosting major events. Odisha has built an impressive reputation with its top-tier hockey facilities and ability to organise global tournaments, while Delhi offers a range of existing stadiums and experience from hosting the 2010 Commonwealth Games. The plan involves upgrading venues in all shortlisted cities and adding new infrastructure to meet international standards, ensuring India can handle an event of this scale.
India last hosted the Commonwealth Games in 2010 in New Delhi. That edition welcomed participants from 71 nations and territories. It left a legacy of improved sports infrastructure and transport networks, but also faced criticism for delays and cost overruns. This time, the IOA is determined to ensure transparent planning, efficient execution, and strict timelines to avoid repeating past mistakes.
With the IOA’s approval now in place, the bid will be sent to the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) for evaluation. The CGF will assess India’s proposal alongside bids from other interested countries, considering factors such as infrastructure, athlete accommodation, transport facilities, and security arrangements. The final decision on the 2030 host is expected in 2026.
India could face competition from other nations that have shown interest in hosting the Games. Previous editions have been held in Birmingham in 2022, Gold Coast in 2018, and Glasgow in 2014. While the Games have no strict rotation rules, the CGF aims for regional variety. India’s experience in hosting major events and its growing sports capabilities could strengthen its case.
The potential benefits of hosting are significant. The event could help position India firmly on the global sports map and inspire young athletes. Tourism is expected to get a boost as visitors from around the world attend the Games. Local businesses in Ahmedabad and surrounding areas could benefit from the surge in demand for hotels, restaurants, and services. The Games could also act as a catalyst for urban development, including upgrades in public transport and training facilities for sports.
However, hosting a global event of this scale involves considerable expense. While exact budget figures have not yet been made public, IOA officials have indicated that funding will likely be a mix of government support and private investment. Efforts will be made to use existing facilities to keep costs in check.
The bid represents both ambition and opportunity. It is a chance for India to return to the global stage as a host of one of the world’s most prestigious multi-sport events, and to do so with lessons learned from the past. Whether Ahmedabad becomes the stage for the 2030 Commonwealth Games now rests with the decision-makers at the Commonwealth Games Federation.
