BJP’s Sankalp Patra includes Hosting Olympics, boosting sports infrastructure

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) made a significant announcement in its manifesto, “Sankalp Patra,” ahead of the 18th Lok Sabha elections. The party revealed its plan to officially bid for hosting the Olympic Games in 2036 if it comes to power.

The manifesto, unveiled on April 14 in the presence of top leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, and party President JP Nadda, emphasized the ambition to host the prestigious sporting event.

“We will facilitate the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to bid for hosting the Olympic Games in 2036 and will develop sports infrastructure such as stadiums and state-of-the-art training centres to host major international sporting events,” stated the party’s manifesto.

Prime Minister Modi had previously mentioned this promise during the 141st International Olympic Committee (IOC) Session held in Mumbai, echoing the party’s commitment to bringing the Olympics to India.

In addition to the Olympic bid, the BJP’s manifesto also outlined plans for a new programme aimed at supporting sportspersons. This initiative will provide benefits such as educational opportunities, employment prospects, and promotional avenues for athletes.

“We will expand the Khelo India Scheme to include more traditional sports and incentivize sports goods manufacturing in partnership with Bharat’s sports ecosystem, aligning with the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat,” detailed the party’s poll pitch.

Alongside these promises, the BJP affirmed its dedication to expanding the Khelo India network and other initiatives to nurture budding athletes who can represent the nation with distinction.

“We will foster sports startups and contribute to building a technology ecosystem in sports,” added the BJP’s poll pitch.

The Lok Sabha elections are set to commence on April 19, with results scheduled to be declared on June 4, 2024. The current term of the 17th Lok Sabha Assembly will conclude on June 16, 2024. The elections will take place in seven phases: April 19, April 26, May 7, May 13, May 20, May 25, and June 1, 2024.