Hyderabad Poised to Host 2036 Olympics, Says Chief Minister Revanth Reddy
Hyderabad: Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on August 2 launched a new sports policy for Telangana, promising dedicated efforts to develop the state into a hub for sporting talent. Speaking at a sports conclave held at HICC, Reddy said the policy was prepared after extensive consultations and aims to address the long-standing absence of a structured framework for sports development in the state.
“Until now, Telangana had no formal sports policy. This lack of direction has affected the state’s youth. We are committed to correcting this and creating opportunities for emerging talent,” the Chief Minister said.
He added that with India preparing to bid for the 2036 Olympics, Hyderabad has the infrastructure and potential to be a part of such a global event. The government, he said, would support athletes to perform better on international platforms.
Highlighting recent concerns over drug use among youth in Telangana, Reddy linked the issue to the lack of structured engagement. “Cases related to drug and marijuana use have increased. To counter this, we formed Eagle Force. Sports can play a key role in steering youth away from such paths,” he said.
The new policy, Reddy noted, aims to reduce political interference in sports administration. It proposes a public-private partnership model with experts and stakeholders from various fields taking the lead, while limiting the government’s operational role.
Reddy took a swipe at the previous BRS regime, accusing it of neglecting sports infrastructure. He recalled that Hyderabad had once contributed nine players to the national football team, which finished fourth in the 1956 Melbourne Olympics. He also named athletes from the state—Mohd Azharuddin, VVS Laxman, Md Siraj, Nikhat Zareen, Deepti Sharma, and others—who have made a mark nationally and internationally.
“Sports grounds were turned into venues for events and private functions. We want to change that. The new policy will ensure equal value is given to both academics and sports,” Reddy said.
