New Delhi
The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has formally approved India’s bid to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, with Ahmedabad proposed as the host city. The decision, made at a Special General Meeting (SGM) on Wednesday, boosts India’s hopes following Canada’s withdrawal from the race.
India has already submitted an Expression of Interest and must file the final bid by August 31. A Commonwealth Sport team, led by Games Director Darren Hall, recently inspected Ahmedabad venues and met Gujarat officials. A larger delegation is expected later this month. The final host will be chosen at the Commonwealth Sport General Assembly in Glasgow in late November.
India last hosted the Commonwealth Games in New Delhi in 2010. IOA joint secretary Kalyan Chaubey said preparations would now move “full steam ahead.” Executive Council member Rohit Rajpal confirmed that the 2030 edition would be a “full-fledged Games” including all core sports, host-selected sports, and additional events.
Planners intend to restore medal-rich events like shooting, archery, wrestling, and hockey, which were dropped from the 2026 Glasgow edition due to costs. Traditional Indian sports such as kabaddi and kho kho are also expected to be included, making the Games more inclusive.
Rajpal explained that the CWG sports programme has three categories: core sports always present, sports chosen by the host, and optional additions. IOA officials hope this flexibility will maximize India’s medal prospects while showcasing indigenous games to a global audience.
The SGM was preceded by an Executive Council meeting earlier in the day, where members unanimously backed the proposal. The final decision now rests with the Commonwealth Sport Assembly.
