India Aims to Host 2036 Olympics, Says Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal

Dibrugarh MP Sarbananda Sonowal at the inauguration event of reconstructed Jalan Outdoor Stadium in Dibrugarh on Saturday (Photo: AT)

Dibrugarh, Oct 10: Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has fueled discussions regarding India's ambition to host the 2036 Olympic Games, emphasizing the initiative led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

During the inauguration of the revamped pavilion at Jalan Outdoor Stadium in Dibrugarh, Sonowal stated, “India is setting its sights on hosting the 2036 Olympics under PM Modi's guidance.”

He underscored the government's commitment to sports, noting that over the last 12 years, Modi has implemented various policies like Khelo India and Fit India, aimed at elevating Indian sports on the global stage.

“These initiatives have significantly contributed to the success of Indian athletes in international competitions, including the Commonwealth Games, Asian Games, and Olympics,” he remarked.

Sonowal also praised Assamese boxer Lovlina Borgohain for her gold medal victory at the 2026 Asian Games, highlighting her achievement as a source of national pride. He reminisced about his own cricketing experiences at Jalan Outdoor Stadium and mentioned that the upgraded facility now meets international standards.

“The pavilion, pitch, and outfield have been constructed to host international tournaments. Dibrugarh will soon welcome international matches,” he added.

The pavilion was developed by the Dibrugarh District Sports Association with assistance from the Assam Cricket Association (ACA) and Oil India Limited (OIL), which contributed Rs 24 lakh through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program.

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia, who attended the event, noted Dibrugarh's rich cricketing history, with approximately 20 to 25 players from the district having participated in the Assam Ranji Trophy.

“With the new pavilion and outfield, along with a seven-wicket pitch, I believe emerging players will have enhanced opportunities and facilities for their cricket training,” Saikia stated.

He pointed out that while Guwahati is currently the only international cricket center in the state, Dibrugarh has the potential to develop into another such venue.

“The BCCI and ACA will consider further development efforts if they continue to receive support from Sonowal,” he concluded.

Among those present at the inauguration were Assam Cricket Association president Taranga Gogoi, OIL director Ankur Baruah, and Dibrugarh MLA Prasanta Phukan.