India has formally submitted its bid to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, a significant step towards realising its ambition of securing the 2036 Summer Olympic Games in Ahmedabad.

According to sources in the Sports Ministry, the bid was submitted on Thursday, 20 March.

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) recently sent a letter expressing its intent to host the event.

If successful, this would mark India’s return as a Commonwealth Games host after a 20-year hiatus, having last staged the Games in Delhi in 2010.

The Sports Ministry has identified Ahmedabad as the proposed venue, reinforcing the city’s role as India’s emerging sporting hub. 

Ahmedabad has already hosted several high-profile events, including the final of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023.

The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF), now rebranded as Commonwealth Sport, will undertake an evaluation process before the final decision is made at the CGF General Assembly.

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Earlier, Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya had spoken of India’s intent to bid for the 2030 Games, highlighting the nation’s commitment to strengthening its sporting infrastructure.

India had also proposed including certain sporting disciplines that were omitted from the 2026 Commonwealth Games to safeguard its medal prospects when the Games take place in Glasgow.

However, the CGF rejected this proposal.

The Commonwealth Games have faced difficulties in securing host cities in recent years, with the 2026 edition thrown into uncertainty following Victoria, Australia’s withdrawal due to escalating costs.

Glasgow subsequently stepped in as host, albeit with a reduced programme featuring just ten sports across four venues.

India has a history of hosting major multi-sport events, with the last two – the Asian Games in 1982 and the Commonwealth Games in 2010 – both held in New Delhi. 

The decision to bid for the 2030 Games aligns with India’s broader sporting ambitions, as the country positions itself as a strong contender for the 2036 Olympics.