PM Announces Nationwide Talent Hunt for 5-15-Year-Olds Ahead of 2036 Olympics Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a nationwide talent identification program during his Independence Day address in New Delhi, targeting children aged 5 to 15 to prepare India for the 2036 Olympics. The initiative aims to identify young athletes with potential and provide them with training, facilities, and support to compete across all Olympic disciplines by 2036. Modi emphasized that India should aim to participate in every sport at the Games, addressing the country’s current inability to qualify for nearly two-thirds of the 350 events in the Olympics. In his speech at the Red Fort, Modi highlighted India’s progress in sports, noting the country’s growing presence on the global stage. He cited initiatives such as the Khelo India Games, University Games, Beach Games, and Winter Games as examples of efforts to strengthen sports infrastructure and talent development. However, he acknowledged challenges, stating, “We are not able to even compete in at least two thirds of these events because we are not even able to qualify.” This gap, he argued, necessitates a broader approach to expand India’s sporting base and ensure athletes are prepared for the 2036 Games. The talent hunt is part of a larger strategy to build a pipeline of athletes capable of competing at the highest level. Modi stated, “We have decided that in 2036, we should participate in at least three fourth events.” The program will identify prospects across the country, providing them with specialized training to become world-class athletes. The initiative reflects a focus on early identification and long-term development to address systemic gaps in India’s sports ecosystem.#india #prime_minister_narendra_modi #2036_olympics #khelo_india_games #commonwealth_games_2030
