PM Modi Calls for Stronger Water and Winter Sports Ecosystem to Boost India’s Olympic Presence

New Delhi, August 27, 2026; Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for a wider sporting ecosystem in India, stressing the need to develop disciplines linked to the country’s coastline and mountainous terrain to strengthen its performance at international competitions.

Addressing athletes during the ‘Khelo India Dialogue’ through video conferencing, Modi said India must expand its participation beyond the sports in which it has traditionally performed well. He highlighted disciplines such as surfing and sport climbing, along with water and winter sports, as areas where the country has significant untapped potential.

The Prime Minister pointed out that despite having extensive coastal and mountainous regions, India has not yet established a strong presence across several Olympic disciplines. He urged stakeholders to create better facilities, training systems and opportunities so that athletes can compete in a broader range of sports.

Modi also linked the expansion of sporting disciplines to India’s preparations for hosting major international events. India is scheduled to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games and has set its sights on bringing the 2036 Olympic Games to the country.

He said preparations for the 2036 Olympics must begin by identifying promising athletes at an early age. A nationwide talent identification programme covering children between five and 15 years is expected to help discover potential athletes across schools, villages and cities.

The Prime Minister said developing new sporting disciplines and nurturing young talent would be crucial to giving India a stronger presence across the Olympic programme. The initiative is aimed at creating a larger pool of athletes capable of competing at the highest international level.

The push comes as India seeks to broaden its sporting achievements and build a stronger foundation ahead of future global sporting events.