Mission Olympics 2036: Haryana sets sights on 36 medals

Haryana has launched Mission Olympics 2036, aiming to increase its Olympic medal tally from four to 36 medals by the 2036 Games, Minister of State for Sports, Youth Empowerment & Entrepreneurship Gaurav Gautam said on Friday.

During a visit to Panipat, Gautam interacted with The Tribune and highlighted the state’s ambitious plan to transform Haryana into a sports powerhouse. BJP district president Dushyant Bhatt was also present during the interaction.

“Haryana has become synonymous with sports. People now say sports means Haryana and Haryana means sports,” Gautam said. He said under the leadership of Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, the government has implemented the country’s best sports policy, offering free insurance, special incentives for akharas and sports nurseries, and enhanced support for athletes.

The minister said the government has allocated Rs 20 crore for Mission Olympics 2036, and preparations have already begun. As part of the initiative, children aged 10 to 12 years will be identified and trained at the State Sports University to prepare them for Olympic-level competition.

“We will select young talent and take full responsibility for their training, accommodation, food, and education, ensuring they are ready for the 2036 Olympics,” Gautam said.

Taking a swipe at the previous Congress regime, Gautam said, “The Congress government gave only Rs 38 crore to sportspersons over 10 years, while the BJP government has provided Rs 592 crore in the same period.”

He emphasised the government's commitment to youth and sportspersons, adding that efforts are underway to upgrade sports infrastructure in both urban and rural areas.

The minister was welcomed at Panipat’s Assandh Road by members of social organisation Sahyog, including Ashu Tuteja, Gaurav Leekha, Mohit Bajaj, and others.