Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya urged for a stronger, member-driven framework for Commonwealth sports cooperation while addressing the Commonwealth Sports Ministers Meeting in Glasgow, Scotland.
Delivering the keynote address on "Reimagining Working Together: Strengthening Commonwealth Collaboration on Sport," Dr. Mandaviya outlined India's vision for expanding collaboration in sports governance, athlete welfare and institutional capacity across the Commonwealth.Highlighting India's long-term commitment to Commonwealth sport, the Minister said the country is preparing to host the 2030 Centenary Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad.
“Guided by our Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, we have defined a vision for a Developed India by 2047 and Sports is a vital pillar of this roadmap. As the host of the 2030 Centenary Commonwealth Games and the 13th Commonwealth Sports Ministers Meeting in Amdavad, we are committed to delivering an exceptional Games, while leaving behind a lasting institutional legacy for Commonwealth sport,” he said.
Dr. Mandaviya also outlined the governance reforms, strengthened anti-doping framework, and flagship initiatives such as Khelo India, Fit India, and the ASMITA League, which are nurturing grassroots talent, empowering greater participation of women in sports, and fostering a vibrant sporting culture across the nation.
He expressed India's strong support for establishing a Commonwealth Sport Coordination Forum as an annual platform to translate ministerial decisions into action, alongside a network of member-led Commonwealth Centres of Excellence to promote knowledge sharing and capacity building.
"India would be pleased to host meetings, technical workshops and regional consultations in the lead-up to 2030," he said. The Union Minister noted that the proposed member-led approach reflects India's own reforms in sports governance. “Last year, we brought into force the National Sports Governance Act to strengthen accountability, professional governance and athlete welfare across national sports bodies," he said.
Dr. Mandaviya reaffirmed India’s readiness to host the 2030 Centenary Commonwealth Games, stating that Ahmedabad is fully prepared to deliver a historic, sustainable, and memorable edition of the Games. He said Ahmedabad's world-class sporting infrastructure, and commitment to excellence reflect India’s growing stature as a global sporting powerhouse and its capability to successfully host major international multi-sport events.
He also endorsed the proposed leadership model under which the incoming host nation of the Commonwealth Sports Ministers Meeting would serve as Chair, with the President of Commonwealth Sport serving as Co-Chair. "India will be honoured to assume the Chair of CABOS for the 2026–2030 cycle," he said.
Concluding his address, Dr. Mandaviya urged Commonwealth nations to strengthen partnerships and build enduring institutions that harness the power of sport for social development. “Let us build institutions that endure, strengthen collaboration that delivers results, and harness the transformative power of sport for future generations. India reaffirms its commitment to safe, inclusive, and equitable sport systems that respect human rights and create opportunities for all,” he added.