Govt backs Delhi’s bid for 2014 Asiad

After more than 32 years, India could once again play host to the Asian Games with the Cabinet today permitting the Indian Olympic Association to make New Delhi’s bid for the 17th Asiad to be held in 2014.

Briefing reporters, Information & Broadcasting Minister Jaipal Reddy said the bid would be backed by the Government of India. ‘‘Unless the government backs it, the bid will not be taken seriously. Therefore, the Cabinet has given the green signal to IOA to make the best possible bid,’’ he said.

The decision to back IOA’s bid was taken two days ahead of the submission deadline on March 31. The winner will be announced in September. New Delhi will be projected as the venue candidate given the infrastructure that will be built and upgraded for the Commonwealth Games to be held in 2010.