India's Sporting Transformation Under Prime Minister Modi

In the summer of 1934, six athletes from India set sail to London for the second edition of what was then known as the British Empire Games. Now recognised as the Commonwealth Games, this event marked a significant point in India's sporting history, where the nation secured only a single bronze medal, achieved by wrestler Rashid Anwar. Fast forward to the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow in 2026, India presented a vastly different image, sending a contingent of 122 athletes who collectively won 39 medals, including 13 golds, 17 silvers, and 9 bronzes. Notably, eight of these gold medals were earned by women athletes.

This remarkable transformation in India's sporting prowess is a narrative that involves many contributors. Athletes have dedicated countless hours to training, supported by coaches and parents who have sacrificed extensively. However, a pivotal influence in this evolution has been Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has prioritised sports as a national concern. Unlike previous leaders, he has made substantial efforts to enhance support for athletes, providing funding and resources previously unavailable to many. By placing national importance on sporting achievements, Modi has lent his office's prestige to various athletes, changing the landscape of Indian sports.

Historically, India has shown a deep love for sports, but the ability to foster this passion was often limited by financial constraints. The nation did not secure its first Commonwealth gold until 1958 in Cardiff, won by Milkha Singh, also known as the "Flying Sikh," who overcame considerable personal adversity to achieve this milestone.

The ups and downs of Indian sports continued throughout the latter half of the 20th century, predominantly supported by wrestlers, weightlifters, and shooters. As recognition grew, some athletes managed to gain international success. However, many faced a series of challenges including inadequate facilities and minimal funding.

A poignant example of the current state of support can be seen in the story of Saikhom Mirabai Chanu, who hails from a remote village in Manipur. In her early days, Mirabai faced financial hardships, often lacking even the most basic transport costs for training. Despite these challenges, her commitment to weightlifting remained unwavering. In 2021, just months before the Tokyo Olympics, she required specialist training abroad. With the help of the government's swift approval for funding under new sports initiatives, Mirabai managed to secure the necessary resources and returned to win an Olympic silver medal, marking a significant achievement for India.

The Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), launched by Prime Minister Modi in 2014, has been instrumental in reshaping the support structure for sports. This initiative is specifically designed to identify and cultivate elite athletes by removing financial barriers that can hinder their progress. Funding extends to all aspects of their training, including access to international coaches, medical aid, and necessary travel expenses. Athletes such as Kishore Jena and PV Sindhu have benefitted greatly from this initiative, demonstrating its effectiveness in equipping Indian talent to compete globally.

Another key programme, Khelo India, initiated in 2018, works to scout and develop young athletes at the school and collegiate levels. By identifying promising talents early, this initiative aims to lay a strong foundation for future generations of Indian sports stars.

At the National Games held in Uttarakhand in early 2025, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the potential of young athletes, recognising a new wave of talent emerging from the Khelo India initiative. His support reflects his understanding of the significance of sports in shaping national pride and identity. Modi stated that the athletes' successes are indicative of a prosperous and confident new India, emphasising that there are no shortcuts to success and one must embrace hard work and perseverance.

As the Indian sports landscape continues to evolve, initiatives like Fit India, along with a consistent focus on inclusion and fitness in public discourse, further exemplify Modi's commitment to fostering an environment where sports can thrive on a national scale. This journey from a solitary bronze to a celebrated sporting nation underscores a collective effort that blends hard work, governance, and a passionate commitment to sporting excellence.