The Aryavarth Express
New Delhi, May 13: Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Tuesday said that Donald Rukare, President of Commonwealth Sport, has expressed strong appreciation for India’s preparations to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad, as well as the country’s grassroots-focused ‘Khelo India’ programme.
Speaking informally to reporters, Mandaviya said Rukare was “highly impressed” with both the readiness for the Games and the concept behind Khelo India, which aims to build a strong sporting culture at the grassroots level.
The Khelo India initiative promotes sports participation among youth across schools and universities through multiple platforms such as youth, university, beach, winter, para, and tribal games. It also supports athletes by providing training infrastructure through dedicated Khelo India Centres.
Mandaviya further revealed that discussions are underway to include traditional Indian sports in the 2030 Commonwealth Games lineup. “Among sports like Kabaddi, Kho Kho, Malkhamb, and Yogasana, at least two will be part of the Games,” he said.
Earlier, a high-level delegation led by Rukare, along with CEO Katie Sadleir and Games Director Darren Hall, conducted a multi-city inspection from April 8 to 10. The team reviewed venues and infrastructure across Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Vadodara, and Ekta Nagar.
During the visit, Mandaviya held detailed discussions with Commonwealth Sport officials, reiterating India’s commitment to hosting a world-class, athlete-focused, and sustainable Commonwealth Games in 2030.
India’s vision for the event includes delivering top-level competition, ensuring athlete welfare, adopting environmentally sustainable practices, and leveraging advanced technology for efficient management. Mandaviya highlighted Ahmedabad’s robust infrastructure, connectivity, and institutional support as key advantages.
He also stressed the importance of legacy planning, including long-term sports infrastructure development and boosting grassroots participation nationwide.
The visit marks continued engagement between Commonwealth Sport and Indian authorities as preparations gather momentum for the centenary edition of the Commonwealth Games in 2030.
