In a significant stride for Indian athletics, Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurated the country’s first-ever Mondo athletic track at the Jawaharlal Nehru (JLN) Stadium in New Delhi on National Sports Day 2025. This inauguration elevates India’s sporting infrastructure to international standards as the nation becomes the 25th in the world to install this premier track surface, commonly used in the Olympics and other elite global athletic events. The new track will serve as the competition ground for the upcoming World Para-Athletics Championships scheduled from late September to early October.
Key Highlights Underlining The Sporting Milestone
Mansukh Mandaviya officially unveiled the Mondo track, heralding its arrival at the iconic Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on National Sports Day.
India joins an elite group of 24 countries globally to possess the advanced two-layered vulcanized rubber track surface renowned for superior elasticity, shock absorption, and athlete safety.
The track installation enables JLN Stadium to host international-caliber athletic events such as the World Para-Athletics Championships.
The inauguration attracted prominent sports personalities including Paralympic champions Devendra Jhajharia and Sumit Antil, sprinters Preethi Pal and Simran Sharma, and former long jumper Anju Bobby George.
Mandaviya emphasized the government’s vision to transform India into a sporting powerhouse by 2047 and underscored the track’s role in nurturing athletic talent and showcasing India on the global sports stage.
Technical Advantages And Athlete Benefits Of The Mondo Track
The newly laid Mondo track incorporates cutting-edge technology tailored to enhance athletic performance and reduce injury risks.
Constructed with a unique two-layer vulcanized rubber formula, the surface delivers consistent elasticity and energy return.
The anti-slip properties improve traction and safety, crucial for sprinters and field event athletes alike.
Shock absorption minimizes impact stress on joints, supporting athlete longevity and recovery.
These technical features make it ideal for both able-bodied and para-athletes, facilitating world-class competition standards within India.
Strategic Importance For Indian Sports And International Events
This infrastructure upgrade directly aligns with India’s ambition to host more global sporting occasions and nurture domestic talent.
The JLN Stadium track will act as a premier venue for the World Para-Athletics Championships from September 26 to October 5, attracting international athletes.
The successful hosting of this event rests on infrastructure parity with global standards, now fulfilled by the Mondo track installation.
PM Modi’s vision for a "Sporting Powerhouse India" by 2047 entails such investments in world-class facilities nationwide.
The government has also submitted letters of intent to host the Commonwealth Games 2030 and the Olympic Games 2036, for which this track installation is foundational.
Words From Athletes And Officials Marking The Occasion
Athletes and sports leaders present expressed enthusiasm and optimism at the new facility.
Devendra Jhajharia, Paralympic javelin champion and head of the Paralympic Committee of India, described the inauguration as a proud moment that will help Indian para-athletes enhance their global competitiveness.
Former long jumper Anju Bobby George lauded the track as a game-changer providing athletes a top-tier training and competition surface in the capital.
Mansukh Mandaviya’s participation in a friendly football match post-inauguration highlighted his personal commitment to promoting sports culture and fitness.
Looking Ahead: A New Chapter For Sports Infrastructure In India
The launch of the Mondo track signals a broader commitment to improving sporting facilities across the country.
Plans are under consideration to install similar tracks in other major stadiums to expand athlete access to world-class surfaces.
Training programs and athlete development initiatives will leverage this upgraded infrastructure to nurture future champions.
Integration of advanced sports science and medical support alongside infrastructure will elevate India’s high-performance sports ecosystem.
Summary Of National Sports Day Track Inauguration Event
Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurated India’s first Mondo track at JLN Stadium.
India becomes the 25th nation with this elite global athletics surface.
Track will host the World Para-Athletics Championships later this year.
The facility promises enhanced performance, safety, and international event hosting capability.
The event aligns with India’s long-term vision to be a global sporting powerhouse by 2047.
In sum, the inauguration of the Mondo track at JLN Stadium marks a historic step in India’s sporting journey. It bridges India’s infrastructure gaps, bolsters its credentials to host global events, and inspires athletes to reach new heights on the world stage, truly befitting National Sports Day celebrations.
Sources: ThePrint, Hindustan Times, ANI News, The Tribune, Moneycontrol
