Building sporting future: Beyond bids & medals

For a nation with India’s talent, ambition and demographic strength, sport must rise far above episodic celebration. It must become a national habit — woven into everyday life, public policy and collective aspiration. As India steps forward to host major international events, including the 2030 Commonwealth Games, the debate naturally emerges: Do bids alone create a sporting nation? As someone who has lived this journey — as an athlete, mentor and now administrator — I can say this with conviction: bidding is not the culmination; it is the beginning.

- PT USHA BY INVITATION

Hosting is an opportunity, not a shortcut

No country has transformed its sporting culture merely by hosting an event. But many nations have used hosting as the spark that forces systems to evolve. When a bid is placed, the entire machinery — government, federation, local administration — works with renewed urgency. Infrastructure upgrades, scientific training, sports medicine, talent pathways and governance reforms often accelerate under the pressure of world scrutiny. But bids without vision are wasteful. Stadiums alone do not create champions. The real transformation happens when these investments feed grassroots programmes, school competitions, athlete scholarships and coach development. Hosting must strengthen the base of Indian sport — not decorate the top. A bid can ignite a system. Only sustained commitment keeps it burning.

Medals are made in systems, not stadiums

The assumption that hosting an international event automatically boosts Olympic medals is misplaced. Medals are earned through continuity, care and long-term athlete development. No stadium, no ceremony, no global spotlight can replace years of structured training and scientific support.