Q. “The Olympic Movement belongs not only to traditional hosts in the Global North but also to the aspirations of the Global South.” Critically examine this statement in the context of India’s bid for the 2036 Olympics. (15 Marks, 250 Words)

Core Demand of the Question

  • Discuss the dominance of the Global North in the Olympic Movement.
  • Examine the benefits of hosting Olympics in Global south in context of India’s bid for the 2036 Olympics.
  • Highlight the key challenges of hosting olympics in the global south.
  • Suggest a suitable way forward.

Answer

Introduction

India’s bid for the 2036 Olympics highlights the growing aspirations of the Global South within the Olympic Movement, which traditionally belonged to the Global North. This bid aims to boost India’s sports infrastructure, enhance its global prestige, and join the elite group of Olympic hosts, building on experiences like the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi.

Dominance of the Global North in the Olympic Movement

  • Concentration of Hosting Rights: Olympic hosting remains skewed towards the Global North due to superior infrastructure and economic strength.
    Eg. The USA, UK, Germany, and Japan have hosted the majority of Summer and Winter Olympics.
  • Influence in IOC Decision-Making: The Global North dominates key positions in the International Olympic Committee (IOC), influencing Olympic policies and host selection.
    Eg. The IOC headquarters is located in Switzerland, a Global North country.
  • High Infrastructure Costs: The enormous costs associated with hosting the Olympics often exclude developing countries from bidding.
    Eg. The 2016 Rio Olympics in Brazil experienced significant budget overruns, discouraging similar countries from bidding.
  • Legacy Benefits Favor Global North Cities: Economic and urban renewal benefits after the Games tend to be more pronounced in Global North cities.
    Eg. The London 2012 Olympics spurred major regeneration and development in East London.

Benefits of Hosting the Olympics in the Global South

  • Development of Sports Infrastructure: Hosting the Olympics accelerates the creation of world-class sports facilities and nurtures local talent.
    Eg. India’s Khelo India initiative aims to boost grassroots sports in preparation for the 2036 Olympics.
  • Economic Growth and Employment Opportunities: The event attracts tourism and investments, generating jobs and economic activity.
  • Enhancement of Global Visibility: Hosting the Games raises a country’s international profile and soft power.
    Eg. India’s global standing improved following the successful 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi.
  • Urban Modernization and Sustainable Development: The Olympics drive improvements in urban infrastructure and promote sustainability.

Key Challenges of Hosting the Olympics in the Global South

  • Financial Burden and Cost Overruns: The enormous costs of hosting can strain public finances and lead to debt.
    Eg. The 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi faced significant budget overruns and financial scrutiny.
  • Environmental Impact: Large-scale construction often results in pollution and damage to ecosystems.
    Eg. Delhi’s air quality worsened due to construction activities around the 2010 Games.
  • Infrastructure and Urban Management Issues: Indian cities face challenges with congestion and inefficient transport during major events.
    Eg. Bengaluru’s 2025 RCB IPL victory celebration turned tragic when overcrowding and lack of crowd control outside Chinnaswamy Stadium led to a deadly stampede killing 11 people.
  • Social Displacement and Public Opposition: Land acquisition for Olympic infrastructure may displace communities and provoke protests.

Way Forward

  • Adopt Sustainable Urban Planning: Focus on eco-friendly and resilient infrastructure development.
    Eg. The Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave in Ahmedabad incorporates green technologies.
  • Encourage Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborate with private investors to share financial risks and responsibilities.
  • Institutional Capacity Building: Long-term institutional reforms are needed for sports governance, project execution, and inter-agency coordination.
    Eg. Strengthening bodies like the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and forming a dedicated Olympic Organising Committee will ensure efficient planning and delivery.
  • Promote Government Schemes: Increase awareness of sports and expand existing youth and sports initiatives nationwide.
    Eg. Promote programs like Khelo India, TOPS, and Mera Yuva Bharat ,embedding sports culture, well-being, and leadership development into India’s broader policy framework.

Conclusion

India’s bid for the 2036 Olympics showcases the Global South’s growing role in the Olympic Movement. By prioritizing sustainable development, inclusive governance, and community engagement, India can successfully navigate challenges and raise its stature in global sports.

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Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
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हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध
Quick Revise Now !
UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध

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