On Independence Day, PM Modi announced a nationwide talent hunt for children aged 5 to 15, aiming for India to compete in three-fourths of Olympic events by 2036.
Kohima, India Aug 16, 2026 ALN: NEW DELHI, AUG 15: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday set an ambitious target for Indian sport, stating that the country should aim to compete in at least three-fourths of all events at the 2036 Olympics. This announcement was made alongside a nationwide talent identification programme for children aged 5 to 15.
Speaking from the Red Fort during the Independence Day celebrations, Modi highlighted the recent progress India has made in the field of sports, emphasizing the need to expand the talent pool to qualify for a wider variety of Olympic events. The Prime Minister's vision reflects a growing recognition of the importance of sports in national identity and global stature.
“India is making space for itself in the world of sports. We hear our national anthem frequently and see our tri-colour going up very often. TOPS has achieved great success. Whether it is Khelo India Games, University Games, Beach Games, Winter Games, or sports training, sports medicine, sports nutrition, India is moving ahead at great pace,” PM Modi stated.
Modi noted that India is now a strong candidate for hosting the 2036 Olympics and will also host the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. However, he pointed out that India's participation in various Olympic disciplines remains limited, as many athletes struggle to qualify. The Prime Minister's remarks underscore a critical challenge facing Indian sports: the need for a more robust system that identifies and nurtures talent from a young age.
“India’s performance is improving, and we are strong contenders to become an Olympic host in 2036. We are hosting the CWG in 2030. There are about 40 disciplines in the Olympics, with nearly 350 events. It is sad that we are not able to even compete in at least two-thirds of these events because we are not even able to qualify,” he added. This acknowledgment of the gap between India's aspirations and current capabilities highlights the necessity for systemic changes in sports development.
To address this issue, the Prime Minister announced a nationwide search for talent to identify sporting ability at an early age. “We have decided that in 2036, we should participate in at least three-fourths of events. We are launching a nationwide talent hunt for children aged 5 to 15 to identify prospects in every corner of the country. They will receive special training to become world-class athletes,” he said. This initiative aims to establish a stronger supply of talent in light of India’s long-term Olympic goals.
The programme will focus on spotting promising young athletes from all regions and providing them with the necessary training and support to excel. By targeting children as young as five, the government hopes to instill a culture of sports and fitness from an early age, which could lead to a more competitive cohort of athletes in the future.
The announcement comes as India prepares to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad, marking the country's second time organizing the event after New Delhi in 2010. The 2030 Games are expected to enhance India's sporting infrastructure, discover emerging athletes, and provide valuable experience ahead of the 2036 Olympics. The Narendra Modi Stadium complex will serve as a key venue for the Ahmedabad Games, showcasing India's ability to host large-scale international sporting events.
Hosting the Commonwealth Games is expected to provide a significant boost to India's sports infrastructure, which has been a point of contention in the past. Critics have often pointed out the lack of adequate facilities and training for athletes, which has hindered performance on the international stage. The Commonwealth Games will serve as a platform not only for competition but also for building a legacy of improved sports facilities that can benefit future generations.
In recent years, India has made strides in various sports, achieving commendable results in events like the Olympics and Commonwealth Games. However, the challenge of broadening participation across a wider array of disciplines remains. The Prime Minister's call to action seeks to address this by encouraging a more inclusive approach to sports, where talent is identified and nurtured irrespective of geographical or socio-economic barriers.
Moreover, the emphasis on sports medicine, nutrition, and training is crucial for developing athletes who can compete at the highest levels. As the country aims for greater representation in the Olympics, investments in these areas will be essential. The government's focus on holistic athlete development could lead to improved performances and a higher medal tally in future competitions.
As India sets its sights on the 2036 Olympics, the implications of this initiative extend beyond mere participation. It represents a broader vision of national pride and unity, where success in sports is seen as a reflection of the country's progress and potential on the global stage. The Prime Minister's ambitious target reflects a desire not only to compete but to excel, fostering a sense of hope and aspiration among the youth of India.
In conclusion, the announcement made by PM Modi is a significant step towards transforming India's sporting landscape. By focusing on early talent identification and training, the government aims to create a sustainable pipeline of athletes capable of competing in a wide range of events. As the nation gears up for the Commonwealth Games and sets its sights on the Olympics, the success of this initiative will depend on effective implementation and continued investment in sports development across the country.
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