Dream to host Olympic Games in India in future, asserts Nita Ambani

The country will be hosting an IOC session for the first time in 40 years in Mumbai in 2023.

India will be hosting an International Olympic Committee (IOC) session at the Jio Convention Centre in Mumbai in 2023. This is definitely a historic moment for Indian sports. Mumbai received a historic 99% of the votes in favour of its bid from the delegates participating in the process. A total of 75 members endorsed its candidature to host the IOC session in 2023.

An IOC session is the annual meeting of the members of the IOC. This comprises 101 voting members and 45 honorary members. They discuss and decide on the key activities of the global Olympic movement, including adoption or amendment of the Olympic Charter, election of IOC members and office-bearers and election of the host city for the Olympics. Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president Narinder Batra and IOC member Nita Ambani spoke to the press after this historic announcement.

Here are excerpts.

A 40-year long wait

India will be hosting the event after nearly 40 years. The last time the meeting was hosted in 1983 in New Delhi. "The Olympic Movement is back to India after a 40-year wait. I am truly grateful to the International Olympic Committee for entrusting India with the honour of hosting the IOC Session in Mumbai in 2023.This will be a significant development for India’s Olympic aspiration and will herald the start of a new era for Indian sport,” said Nita Ambani.

Benefit for Indian sports

Nita Ambani also pointed out the benefits of sports and its overall influence. "Sport has always been a beacon of hope and inspiration for millions around the world. We are one of the youngest countries in the world today. I’m excited for the youth of India to embrace and experience first-hand the magic of the Olympics. It is our dream to strengthen this partnership further and host the Olympic Games in India in the years to come."

A new era for Indian sports

Speaking at the successful conclusion of the bidding process, IOA President Dr Narinder Batra said, "This is the start of a new era for India sport – an era that features the long-term goal of hosting the Olympic Games in India. We are ambitious and recognize our objectives are bold. But, India is on an exciting journey and we want the Olympic Movement to play a central part in building a brighter future for our next generation. Delivering a truly memorable IOC Session in Mumbai in 2023, with a strong emphasis on youth potential, sustainability and innovation will be one of the first steps to showcase India’s new sporting capacity.”

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