Commonwealth Games: India's proposal to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games

What is it?

A global multi-sport competition conducted every four years, showcasing competitors from the Commonwealth of Nations (72 countries and regions).

Frequently viewed as a medium to enhance camaraderie, cultural connections, and athletic achievement among member nations.

Source:

Initially conducted in 1930 in Hamilton, Canada, it was referred to at that time as the British Empire Games.

Renamed to British Empire and Commonwealth Games (1954), British Commonwealth Games (1970), and ultimately Commonwealth Games (from 1978).

History:

Features a diverse array of Olympic-style sports, in addition to classic Commonwealth sports such as lawn bowls, squash, and netball.

Distinct characteristic → integration of para-sports events within the main schedule.

India and the Commonwealth Games:

Competed for the first time in the 1934 London Games; wrestler Rashid Anwar secured India's inaugural medal (bronze in wrestling).

Milestones: Milkha Singh (India's first gold, Cardiff 1958), growth of wrestling, shooting, weightlifting, and badminton in subsequent decades.

Top achievement: 2010 Delhi Games → India secured 101 medals (39 gold), placing 2nd overall.

As of now, India has secured 564 medals (203 gold) in the Commonwealth Games.

India as the Venue:

Held in 2010, New Delhi — known for India’s remarkable medal count and extensive coordination.

Currently seeking to host the 2030 Games with Ahmedabad as the suggested location (Narendra Modi Stadium, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave).

The plan encompasses all prominent sports, as well as traditional Indian games such as kabaddi and kho-kho.