Mandaviya kicks off King’s Baton Relay for Glasgow 2026 CWG

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya reiterated the government's commitment to make India a top-five sporting nation in the world by 2047 as he unveiled the King's Baton for the 2026 Glasgow Commonwealth Games at a colourful ceremony in New Delhi on Tuesday. "Today India is organising world-class tournaments and winning medals also. We will grow further in sports and by 2036, India will be among the top-10 medal winners in the world. And by 2047, when the country will celebrate 100 years of independence the country will be among the top-five sporting nations," said Mandaviya. He said that the King's Baton Relay embodies the values of harmony, perseverance, and progress in the Commonwealth.
The Baton, designed by renowned Indian visual artist Aaquib Wani, reflects the country's vibrant spirit of art, sports, and sustainability—themes that lie at the heart of this year’s relay. Its design draws inspiration from India’s rich cultural and natural landscape, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics that capture the nation’s diversity and creative ambition.
Lindy Cameron, British High Commissioner to India, said, “The King’s Baton Relay is a powerful symbol of the enduring partnership between the United Kingdom, India, and the wider Commonwealth family. Delhi’s celebration of this moment captures the shared values that unite us — friendship, inclusivity, and progress through sport. The Baton’s design, inspired by India’s art, culture, and sustainability, perfectly represents how creativity and collaboration can bridge nations and inspire generations across the Commonwealth.”
Sharing her thoughts on the occasion, CGA India President, P.T. Usha, remarked, “The Baton Relay stands as a testament to how sport connects communities and inspires excellence. As it travels through Delhi, it celebrates not just athletic spirit but also India’s artistic expression and commitment to sustainability. This moment reinforces our shared belief in unity through sport.” 
The 2026 Commonwealth Games is scheduled to take place from July 23 to August 2, 2026, in Glasgow, Scotland. This will be the fourth time Scotland hosts the Games, following editions in Edinburgh (1970 and 1986) and Glasgow (2014). The Baton will remain on public display in Delhi from November 12 to 14 for viewing in DLF Avenue Mall, before travelling to Ahmedabad on November 14 for the next leg of its relay.