‘India committed to organising successful Commonwealth Games’

PORT OF SPAIN - India Saturday reaffirmed its commitment to organising the best Commonwealth Games ever next year.

At the Sports Breakfast during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) here, Commonwealth Games Organising Committee Chairman Suresh Kalmadi and Sindushree Khullar, secretary, sports ministry, outlined Delhi’s preparations for the Games.

Khullar gave a detailed presentation on the progress made on various aspects of the 2010 Games scheduled Oct 3-14.

Khullar elaborated on the roles and responsibilities, financial support, venue updates, Games Village, tourist arrivals and accommodation, volunteer programme, preparedness, legacy and the Queens’ Baton Relay.

Kalmadi listed some benefits of the Games like the creation of 2.5 million jobs and the economic impact of approximately $4,500 million for India over a period from 2008 to 2012, the 1,00,000 tourists in flow, investment in green infrastructure, pro-active waste management, greening and offset and green ceremonies.

“Environment is a critical component today, he said. “We will strive towards reducing the carbon footprint to establish the first green Commonwealth Games and set a benchmark for all future multi-disciplinary events, Kalmadi said.