'I won't ask you to do anything in the middle of your events but...': PM Narendra Modi to Paris Olympics-bound athletes

NEW DELHI: India's aspirations to host the 2036 Olympic Games have received a significant boost from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has expressed confidence in the nation's bid and sought valuable insights from the athletes representing the country at the upcoming Paris Games.
In a recent interaction with the Paris-bound contingent, Modi emphasized the importance of their observations and experiences in the French capital, as they could provide invaluable inputs to aid India's preparations for hosting the quadrennial extravaganza.
"We are hoping to host the Olympics in 2036, it will help in creating a sporting atmosphere (in the country). Work is in progress to prepare infrastructure for it," Modi said, as quoted by PTI.
Recognizing the transformative power of the Olympic Games, the Prime Minister highlighted the potential impact on creating a vibrant sporting culture within the country.
"I won't ask you to do anything in the middle of your events but when you are free, I would urge you to observe the arrangements. Your inputs will help our bid for 2036. We will have an understanding on how to make sure that we are better-prepared," the Indian PM added.
The government's dedication to this cause is further evidenced by the presence of Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and Indian Olympic Association President P.T. Usha at the meeting.
Modi's request for the athletes to observe and report back on the organizational aspects of the Paris Games reflects a strategic move to ensure that, if India were to host the 2036 Olympics, it would be equipped with the knowledge and insights necessary to deliver an event of the highest standard.
The enthusiasm for the upcoming Games, set to take place from July 26 to August 11, is palpable, with India aiming to surpass its record-breaking performance at the Tokyo Games, which saw the country secure seven medals, including a historic gold in javelin throw by Neeraj Chopra. With over 100 Indian athletes, including an unprecedented 21 shooters, qualifying for the Paris Games, there is a tangible sense of anticipation and hope for ending the medal drought of the last two editions.