The Indian government has officially approved the submission of a bid to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, with Ahmedabad proposed as the host city. The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, cleared the move on Wednesday, authorizing the signing of a Host Collaboration Agreement and providing financial assistance to the Gujarat government if the bid is successful. This would mark the second time India hosts the Games, the first being New Delhi in 2010.

Ahmedabad, which hosted the 2023 ODI World Cup final and multiple IPL finals in 2022, 2023, and 2025, is being positioned as the centerpiece of India’s bid. Officials noted that the city already has world-class infrastructure to accommodate athletes and visitors from the 72 participating nations and territories.

Government sources emphasized that hosting the Commonwealth Games would have a far-reaching impact beyond sports, creating employment, boosting tourism, and benefiting sectors such as transport, media, event management, and IT. “Hosting the CWG in India would leave a lasting impact, inspiring young athletes and generating opportunities in sports science, event operations, logistics, broadcast, IT, communications, and public relations,” an official statement said.

The Cabinet approval includes guarantees from all relevant ministries and departments, fulfilling the requirements of the Commonwealth Games Federation. While Canada and Nigeria had initially expressed interest, they later withdrew, leaving India as a strong contender. The host nation for the 2030 Games is expected to be announced in the coming year.

Ahmedabad’s successful bid could also pave the way for India to propose hosting the Olympics in 2036 or in the near future, further establishing the country as a global sports destination.