Modi meets Asian Games medallists at Major Dhyan Chand Stadium, urges targets for 2028 and outlines 2036 Olympic bid

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met India's Asian Games medallists at Major Dhyan Chand Stadium on Thursday, congratulated them on their performances and outlined India's ambitions to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games and to pursue bringing the 2036 Olympics to Indian soil.

Medallists said the meeting gave them a renewed sense of confidence and that his remarks would encourage them to set their sights on greater achievements at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and help power the country’s bid for the 2036 Games. Several athletes pointed to government schemes and the development of sporting infrastructure as important motivators for the growth of sport in India.

Boxer Lovlina Borgohain said the Prime Minister's vision and encouragement had inspired athletes to aim higher. "The way he motivated us and spoke about the hard work of athletes and his vision for the future was very motivating," she said. "He spoke about the Commonwealth Games and the efforts to host the 2036 Olympics. It is a big thing for every athlete that we can dream of hosting such big events in India. We will make it happen," she added.

Sailor Nethra Kumanan, who secured bronze in the women's ILCA 6 event, said the meeting strengthened her optimism about Indian sport. "The schemes and infrastructure he's built are a huge motivation for the sport to grow in the country. It's inspiring to see it grow, it's inspiring to be a part of it," Kumanan said.

Vithya Ramraj, who won three medals in Nagoya, said Modi had urged athletes to push themselves for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. "He told us that we will do it. We will give our 100 per cent for the pride of our country," said Ramraj.

Indian men's hockey captain Harmanpreet Singh described the encounter as motivating and welcomed Modi's frequent interactions with sportspersons around major tournaments. "He spoke about the budget, sports and the overall picture. We were saying, 'We will do it', and I think it felt very good," said Harmanpreet. PM Modi also had special praise for the female athletes, who brought home medals from the Asian Games 2026 during his riveting speech.

Athletes said they will now target strong performances at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and said Modi's comments would bolster efforts to bring the 2036 Olympics to India.