India Sets Ambitious Goals for 2036 Olympics and Women's Sports Growth

Jay Shah, chairman of the International Cricket Council, has revealed India's ambitious plans to host the Olympic Games in Gujarat in 2036, following the Commonwealth Games in 2030. With a target of winning 100 medals, Shah expressed confidence in the contributions of women athletes. He highlighted the changing aspirations of parents, who now encourage their daughters to emulate successful cricketers. This announcement marks a significant step in India's sports development and commitment to women's athletics.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 5, 2026, 02:03 IST

India's Olympic Aspirations for 2036

On Sunday, Jay Shah, the chairman of the International Cricket Council, announced India's plans to host the Olympic Games in Gujarat in 2036, following the Commonwealth Games in 2030. He emphasized the ambitious goal of securing 100 medals at the upcoming Olympics.

Speaking at the 'Run for Girl Child' marathon organized by Dr. Hedgewar Seva Smruti Seva Samiti in Surat, Shah credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his instrumental role in bringing the Commonwealth Games to Gujarat.

Shah stated, 'After the Commonwealth Games in 2030, our focus will shift to hosting the Olympics in 2036.'

Reflecting on India's performance at the Paris Olympics 2024, where the nation secured eight medals, he expressed that the target for 2036 should be a minimum of 100 medals, with Gujarat expected to contribute at least 10.

He expressed optimism that women athletes would achieve at least two of those medals.

Shah also commended the Indian men's cricket team for their triumphs in the 2024 T20 World Cup held in Barbados and the 2025 Champions Trophy.

He noted the increasing influence of women's sports, mentioning that while parents once hoped their sons would emulate Virat Kohli, many now aspire for their daughters to follow in the footsteps of cricketers like Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur.