Sports Evolution in India: Leading Roles of Bhubaneswar, Chennai, and Ahmedabad in Athletic Revolution
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India is gearing up to take its place on the global sports stage, with strategic investments, technological innovations, and comprehensive training programs positioning the country to host world-class sporting events.
According to a recent report by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and Grant Thornton Bharat, titled 'Sports Cities of India 2024', several key cities are leading the transformation of India's sports landscape. Bhubaneswar, Chennai, and Ahmedabad are identified as pivotal players in this evolution.
Bhubaneswar, for instance, is proposed as one of the host cities for the 2036 Summer Olympics in India. The city's modern sports infrastructure and facilities, showcased in the successful hosting of the FIH Men's Hockey World Cup at the Kalinga Sports Complex, make it a strong contender.
Chennai, on the other hand, is progressing with its Global Sports City project, aiming to become a multi-sport hub. Meanwhile, Ahmedabad is gaining recognition for its Narendra Modi Stadium, the world's largest cricket stadium.
The report provides a comprehensive assessment of cities' capabilities in transforming into world-class sports hubs, essential for India's plans to host the Olympics and other major international events. The cities' progress in infrastructure, long-term athlete development, and international event hosting positions India for a future bid to host the 2036 Olympics.
In addition to traditional sports, India's sports sector is evolving to include e-sports and adventure sports. Major e-sports tournaments, such as the ESL India Premiership, have helped establish e-sports as a key component of India's sports ecosystem. E-sports have seen exponential growth in India, particularly in cities like Bengaluru, Delhi, and Mumbai.
Adventure sports are becoming a significant driver of youth engagement in sports, complementing traditional sports and expanding the reach of India's sporting culture to new audiences. This diversification is a strategic move to create a vibrant, inclusive sports culture for future generations.
Collaboration between state governments, private enterprises, and sports bodies is crucial in developing sustainable infrastructure and athlete development programs. The Indian government's commitment to sports development is evident in its focus on fostering a vibrant, inclusive sports culture for future generations.
The Indian government has allocated ₹3,442.32 crore in the Union Budget 2024-25 for sports development, focusing on grassroots programs and elite athlete support. The Khelo India initiative continues to be a driving force, with ₹900 crore earmarked for promoting sports at the grassroots level, identifying talent, and nurturing young athletes.
The rise of e-sports and adventure sports platforms complements traditional sports, contributing to India's transformation into a global sporting destination. The cities are also focusing on fan engagement and readiness to host major international events to position themselves as global sports hubs.
In conclusion, India's sports cities are investing in world-class facilities, cutting-edge technology, and elite athlete programs. The country's sports sector is evolving beyond infrastructure, focusing on long-term athlete development and creating sustainable ecosystems. With the right investments and collaborations, India is well on its way to becoming a leading player in the global sports arena.
