India, Aug. 15 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday announced a nationwide sports talent hunt for children aged five to 15 as part of India's push to strengthen its sporting base ahead of a possible 2036 Olympics.

Addressing the nation from the Red Fort on the 80th Independence Day, Modi said India aims to compete in at least three-fourths of Olympic events by 2036, significantly expanding its participation across disciplines.

"We have decided that in 2036, we should participate in at least three-fourths of events. We are launching a nationwide talent hunt for children aged 5 to 15 to identify prospects in every corner of the country. They will get special training to become world-class athletes," Modi said.

He said the talent h...