Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said India has a vast pool of sporting talent and is prepared to host the 2036 Olympic Games.
The Prime Minister said India's recent success in the world of sports is a huge inspiration for every young sportsperson. The statement came weeks after the country bagged a record 107 medals at the Asian Games in China.
Speaking after inaugurating the 37th National Games at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium at Margao, PM Modi said the Games are taking place in Goa at a time when Indian sports is reaching new heights. "We have brought in changes in schemes to provide financial incentives to sportspersons," he said.
There is no dearth of sporting talent in India, Modi said, adding the country has produced many sports champions. "The country has produced champions despite deprivation, yet poor performance in the medal tally always rankled people," he said.
PM Modi said his government has worked towards removing roadblocks in the progress of sports. The government has created a roadmap to take players to the Olympics podium (winning medals).
Reiterating that India is ready to host the Olympic Games in 2036, Modi said the TOPS (Target Olympic Podium Scheme) initiative has been designed to provide the best available training to athletes.
"India is ready to organize the Youth Olympics in 2030 and the Olympics in 2036. Our aspiration to organize the Olympics is not limited to just emotions. Rather, there are some solid reasons behind this," he stated.
