India has expressed strong interest in hosting the 2030 Commonwealth Games (CWG) and is set to formally submit its letter of intent to the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) in March. A senior official from the Sports Ministry confirmed the development, emphasizing India&rsquo;s commitment to bringing the prestigious multi-sport event back to the country after a 20-year gap.
In a strategic move to bolster its medal tally, India is also in discussions with CGF to organize 10 sporting disciplines that were excluded from the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. These include wrestling, shooting, table tennis, badminton, squash, archery, hockey, and T20 cricket&mdash;events where Indian athletes have traditionally excelled on the CWG stage.
The proposal was reportedly discussed during Commonwealth Games Federation President Chris Jenkins' recent visit to India, where Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya conveyed India's interest in both the 2030 Games and the 2026 event adjustments.
&ldquo;India is very keen on hosting the 2030 Commonwealth Games, and a formal bid will be sent next month. Additionally, we are in talks with CGF and the Glasgow 2026 organizers to hold competitions for the 10 excluded sports in India. These disciplines contribute significantly to India&rsquo;s medal count, and we don&rsquo;t want to miss out,&rdquo; said a top official from the Sports Ministry.
While CGF has no objections to India hosting these events in 2026, the final decision rests with the Glasgow organizers, who hold the official hosting rights. India remains engaged in negotiations to secure approval, ensuring its athletes continue to compete in key medal-winning sports.
For the 2030 CWG, India is planning a multi-city hosting model, a proposal currently being fine-tuned. If successful, this would mark India's second time hosting the Commonwealth Games, the first being the 2010 edition in Delhi.
India&rsquo;s bid for the CWG 2030 aligns with its broader ambition of hosting the 2036 Olympics, positioning the country as a major player in the global sporting landscape. The Commonwealth Games Federation has faced challenges in securing a host for the 2026 edition, particularly after Victoria, Australia, withdrew due to cost concerns. Against this backdrop, India&rsquo;s proactive approach signals its readiness to step up and play a bigger role in global sports administration.
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Common Wealth Games 2010 hosted in Delhi (file photos)

India aims to bring back key medal-winning sports in 2026 while bidding for the 2030 CWG

India Eyes 2030 CWG, Seeks to Host 10 Sports in 2026

India aims to bring back key medal-winning sports in 2026 while bidding for the 2030 CWG

February 22, 2025 | 07:35 IST