## Jay Shah Unveils India’s Olympic Aspirations for 2036
### Ambitious Plans for Gujarat
During a speech at the ‘Run for Girl Child’ marathon in Surat, International Cricket Council (ICC) Chairman Jay Shah revealed India’s ambitious goal of hosting the Olympic Games in Gujarat by 2036. This announcement follows the state’s successful bid to host the Commonwealth Games in 2030, marking a significant milestone for Indian sports.
### Acknowledging Leadership
Shah emphasized the pivotal role played by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in securing the Commonwealth Games for Gujarat. His leadership, according to Shah, has been instrumental in aligning the state’s vision with global sporting events. “After the Commonwealth in 2030, we are aiming for the Olympics in 2036,” Shah stated, showcasing India’s commitment to enhancing its sporting profile.
### Aiming for 100 Medals
Looking ahead to the Paris Olympics in 2024, Shah noted that India secured eight medals in that event and declared a bold target for the 2036 Games: at least 100 medals. He specified that Gujarat should contribute ten medals to this total, reinforcing the state’s importance in India’s sporting landscape.
### Spotlight on Women’s Sports
Shah expressed strong confidence in the potential of women athletes, predicting that they would secure a minimum of two medals for the country. His remarks reflect a growing acknowledgment of women’s sports in India, a sector that is increasingly gaining support and visibility. This shift in focus has also influenced societal attitudes; where previous generations dreamed of having sons emulate cricket stars like Virat Kohli, many parents are now inspiring their daughters to follow in the footsteps of prominent female cricketers such as Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur.
### Celebrating Recent Achievements in Cricket
In addition to discussing future goals, Shah took a moment to celebrate recent achievements in Indian cricket. He pointed to the success of the Indian men’s cricket team, highlighting their victories in the 2024 T20 World Cup held in Barbados and the upcoming 2025 Champions Trophy. This recognition of cricket’s prowess serves to further motivate young athletes and fans alike.
### The Impact of Sports on Community
The ‘Run for Girl Child’ marathon itself is more than just a sporting event; it symbolizes the growing intersection between sports and social issues in India, particularly in empowering young girls. Having sporting events that promote women’s participation contributes to changing societal norms and encouraging healthier lifestyles.
### Conclusion
Jay Shah’s pronouncements at this community event underscore a transformative period for Indian sports, especially concerning gender equality and medal hopes on an international stage. With high aspirations for future Olympic participation, the groundwork laid today could very well shape the narrative of Indian athletics for years to come.
