NEW DELHI:
Sports minister Anurag Thakur
expressed confidence in India's ability to secure the hosting rights for the
2036 Olympic Games
, stating that the country is well-equipped to compete with other bidders.
Speaking to PTI, he said, "We are fully prepared. Very easily we can (host the Olympics)."
He dismissed concerns about the financial burden, saying, "Last year our capital expenditure was Rs 10 lakh crore, and a year before, it was Rs 7.5 lakh crore.
This year it is Rs 11,11,111 crore. Sports infrastructure is hardly Rs 5,000 crore. Even if it goes up to Rs 20,000 crore, it can done."
Thakur highlighted India's rapid growth and infrastructure development under the
Modi government
, citing significant improvements in transportation, healthcare, and education sectors. He believes that by 2036, India will be in an even stronger position to host the Games.
The minister also addressed the criticism that the money spent on hosting the Olympics could be better utilized for welfare schemes. He argued that the Games would generate employment opportunities and contribute to the economy, ultimately benefiting the poor and marginalized.
"I will give you an example. When IPL starts, it offers employment to so many people in these one-two months, not thousands but lakhs. It adds money to our economy. A country like India will benefit by hosting the Games," added the union sports and youth affairs minister of India.
However, Thakur acknowledged the challenges facing Indian sports, particularly the issue of doping. With India being among the top dope offenders globally, he emphasized the need for coaches and national federations to guide athletes towards the right path and avoid shortcuts that could jeopardize their careers.
"We test way more now, more samples are tested and that is why there are more positive tests. Both off-line and online exposure and awareness has been carried out. Federations and coaches have to change their mindset. If they look at shortcuts for winning medals, it will only causes harm, athletes can lose their entire careers. They will have to look at proper ways," he asserted.
(Inputs from PTI)
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