Independence Day 2024: PM Modi Says 'It's India's Dream To Host Olympics 2036 In The Country'

Addressing his 11th consecutive Independence Day speech on Thursday, PM Narendra Modi congratulated the athletes who represented the country at the 2024 Paris Olympics and extended his best wishes to those travelling to the Paralympics.

During the speech, PM Modi also said India has proven that they possess the infrastructure to host a big event like G20 and thus can also host the Olympics in 2036.

"Today, we also have with us the youth who made the Indian flag fly high in Olympics. On behalf of 140 crore countrymen, I congratulate all our athletes and players...In the next few days, a huge contingent of India will leave for Paris to participate in the Paralympics. I extend best wishes to all our Paralympians...India organising the G20 Summit on a large scale has proven that India has the capability to organise large-scale events...It is the dream of India to host 2036 Olympics, we are making preparations for that...," PM Modi said while addressing the nation from Red Fort.

At the recently concluded 2024 Paris Olympics, India returned with six medals (one silver and five bronze). Neeraj Chopra won silver in the men's javelin throw whereas Manu Bhaker opened India's medal account by winning a bronze in individual 10m air pistol event, and thus becoming the first markswoman from the country to win an Olympic medal.

She then joined forces with Sarabjot Singh to bag the 10m air pistol mixed team bronze.

India have never hosted the Olympics but have hosted the likes of Commonwealth Games (2010) and Asian Games (1951 and 1982). India are also likely to bid to host the 2030 Youth Olympics.

Reportedly, Ahmedabad is being tipped to be the host city for the Olympics.