Oct 13,2023
“Usha’s Vision for India’s Olympic Future”
In a resounding display of India’s Olympic aspirations, the esteemed Pilavullakandi Thekkeparambil Usha, fondly known as PT Usha, takes the helm as the first female president of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA). With unwavering determination, Usha envisions India hosting the Olympics by 2036, catapulting the nation into the global sporting spotlight.
The eagerly anticipated 141st IOC Session, slated to grace Mumbai from October 15 to 17, marks a pivotal moment in India’s sporting history. Usha, in an exclusive interview with News18, underscores the profound significance of this event, deeming it an unparalleled opportunity to showcase India’s athletic prowess to the esteemed members of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). With the steadfast support of IOC luminary Nita Ambani, India’s readiness to host the Olympics is beyond question.
Drawing from her own storied athletic career, which reached its zenith at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, Usha exudes confidence that any corner of India holds the potential to orchestrate this grand global spectacle. She lauds the resolute backing from the government and points to the existing world-class infrastructure in Ahmedabad as evidence of India’s preparedness.
“Our Prime Minister envisions hosting the 2036 Olympics, and the government’s resounding support is testament to this shared dream. With commendable infrastructure in Ahmedabad and various other locations, our vision is unwavering,” asserts the Rajya Sabha member. “We’re not merely aspiring to host the Olympics, but also aiming for triumph in the medal tally.”
The excitement surrounding this historic session is palpable, poised to firmly etch India’s name on the global sporting map. The event promises a plethora of opportunities, from orchestrating marquee sporting extravaganzas to erecting world-class training facilities, nurturing emerging talent, and elevating the lives of countless Indian athletes. Moreover, it signifies a monumental leap towards India’s fervent ambition to host both the Youth Olympics and the Olympic Games in the not-so-distant future.
The state-of-the-art Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai, situated at the pulsating heart of the Bandra Kurla Complex, will play host to this momentous gathering. Unveiled in early 2022, this colossal convention centre proudly stands as India’s largest of its kind.
The grand theatre at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) is primed to set the stage for the opening ceremony, while the exhibition hall (pavilion) will serve as the hallowed ground for the session meeting.
As the world eagerly awaits this historic moment, India’s Olympic vision under the stewardship of PT Usha is destined to set new benchmarks and inspire generations of athletes to come. This session is not just an event; it’s a testament to India’s unwavering dedication to the spirit of sportsmanship on the global stage.
