Ahmedabad to Become ‘Olympic Ready City’ with Rs.1,331 Crore Sports Push for 2030 Commonwealth Games

Gandhinagar | Gujarat — In a bold declaration of global ambition, the Gujarat government has unveiled a ₹1,331 crore roadmap to transform Ahmedabad into an ‘Olympic Ready City’ and position it as a serious contender to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games. The announcement, made during the Budget 2026–27 presentation, signals a strategic shift to elevate the state’s sporting, tourism and infrastructure ecosystem to international standards.

Presenting the budget for a record fifth consecutive time in the Gujarat Legislative Assembly, Finance Minister Kanu Desai described the allocation as a long-term investment in Gujarat’s future. “This budget incorporates provisions for all sectors, with special emphasis on priority areas like sports, youth empowerment and technology. Our aim is to create world-class facilities and new employment opportunities,” he said.

Massive Allocation for Sports Infrastructure

Out of the total ₹1,331 crore allocation for the sports sector:

₹500 crore will be used to develop Ahmedabad as an Olympic Ready City and for the expansion of the SVP Sports Enclave.

₹165 crore has been earmarked for sports complex infrastructure across districts.

₹101 crore will strengthen sports infrastructure in the Ahmedabad–Gandhinagar region.

₹100 crore will create Olympic-standard infrastructure at Karai.

₹100 crore has been set aside for a Para High Performance Centre in Gandhinagar.

₹90 crore will fund the construction of an international-standard hockey stadium.

Officials say the investment is not just about hosting a mega sporting event but about building a legacy. “Through this project, Ahmedabad will be equipped to host global tournaments, including the Olympics in the future,” a senior government official said.

Beyond Sports: Boost to Economy and Tourism

The government believes the sports push will significantly boost tourism, hospitality and urban infrastructure. Improved stadiums, transport connectivity and training centres are expected to attract international athletes and sporting bodies.

Political observers note that the budget comes at a crucial time, with municipal corporation elections on the horizon. However, officials insist the focus is developmental. “This is not merely an event-driven allocation. It is about transforming Gujarat into a global sports and technology hub,” Desai added.

Youth, Women and Technology in Focus

Apart from sports, the budget also emphasises the government’s ‘Nari Shakti’ and ‘Yuva Shakti’ initiatives aimed at empowering women and expanding employment avenues for youth. Desai highlighted special provisions to promote semiconductor policy, adoption of modern technology, and development of textiles and tourism sectors.