BJP unveils mega sports push in manifesto, promises to host 2036 Olympics

The BJP’s manifesto for Lok Sabha election 2024 also made several other promises for sports and sports fans.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) made some major promises for Indian sports if re-elected to power, unveiling its manifesto “Sankalp Patra” on April 14 in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other top leaders. The highlight was the party’s announcement of officially bidding to host the 2036 Olympics in India.

“We will facilitate IOA to bid for hosting the Olympic Games in 2036 and develop sports infrastructure like stadiums and state-of-the-art training centres to host major international sporting events,” the manifesto stated.

The BJP's 'Sankalp Patra' manifesto promises to bid for hosting the 2036 Olympic Games in India if re-elected to power. Also promised to develop state-of-the-art stadiums and training centers. #BJPManifesto #BJPSankalpPatra #BJP pic.twitter.com/Ql4mab1OfV

— Khel Now (@KhelNow) April 14, 2024

Recognizing the potential of Indian athletes, the BJP also pledged to launch a new programme providing educational, employment and promotion opportunities for sportspersons.

“We will launch a new programme for sportspersons, providing them with benefits like educational opportunities, employment opportunities and promotion opportunities.”,  Manifesto said

In a boost to indigenous sports goods manufacturing, the party said it will incentivize this sector in partnership with the sports ecosystem to further the vision of an ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India).

The manifesto covered expansion of grassroots initiatives like Khelo India and promoting sports startups and technology in this field. “We will continue to expand the Khelo India network and other initiatives to nurture future athletes who can represent our nation with pride. We will promote startups in sports and help create a technology ecosystem in sports,” it said.

Additionally, more traditional Indian sports will be brought under the Khelo India Scheme if the BJP retains power.

Earlier in february, the Sports Ministry’s allocation saw a nominal hike of Rs 45.36 crore to Rs 3442.32 crore in the Interim Budget, compared to Rs 3,396.96 crore last year.

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