by Vinod Chandrashekhar Dixit
Ahmedabad, Gujarat, has officially won the bid to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, following formal approval by the Commonwealth Sport membership at the General Assembly held in Glasgow. This marks a milestone moment for India, positioning Ahmedabad as the first Indian city to host the prestigious multi-sport event.
Ahmedabad — From Heritage Capital to Global Sporting Hub
National Leadership’s Role in Securing the Games
The achievement is being celebrated as a proud moment for India and Gujarat. The vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in nurturing a modern sporting ecosystem, the efforts of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi have been credited for guiding India’s strong upward trajectory in global sports engagement.
Union Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya stated that hosting the Games will reflect India’s development arc and reinforce the nation’s commitment to sports as a driver of youth empowerment, unity, and international presence. He added that this milestone aligns with India’s long-term vision of Viksit Bharat @ 2047, showcasing India’s capability to organize inclusive and sustainable global sporting events.
World-Class Sporting Infrastructure Emerges
Ahmedabad is already home to the world’s largest cricket venue — Narendra Modi Stadium — which will serve as a central attraction during the Games. Another major facility, the 236-acre Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave, is underway and will function as the central operations hub for the event. Additional venues — including the Aquatics Centre and multiple football arenas — will be newly constructed or upgraded to international standards.
Dr. Donald Rukare, President of Commonwealth Sport, described the selection of Ahmedabad as a defining moment for India’s role within the Commonwealth sporting movement. He emphasized that as the world’s most populous nation, India will bring ambition, energy, rich youth culture, and sporting excellence to the Games’ centenary edition.
Economic, Cultural, and Urban Transformation
The Commonwealth Games 2030 are expected to catalyze unprecedented development across the city:
- Modernized roads and transit systems
- Growth in tourism and hospitality
- New opportunities in logistics, construction, event management, security, services
- Global showcasing of Gujarat’s art, cuisine, textiles, and traditional culture
Local businesses — hotels, restaurants, vendors, and transport operators — are expected to benefit significantly from international visitor inflow.
Green Games, Legacy Games
The 2030 Games will prioritize sustainability, with measures such as eco-efficient venue designs, integrated smart mobility systems, and long-term infrastructure reuse. Importantly, this event also positions Ahmedabad as a serious contender for India’s anticipated bid for the 2036 Olympic Games.
In winning the 2030 Commonwealth Games, Ahmedabad is not just hosting a sporting spectacle — it is presenting a confident and modern India to the world, rooted in cultural heritage and accelerating into the future.
