Sharma, who was formerly India's High Commissioner to London, is visiting his homeland and addressed the organising committee at its headquarters in New Delhi.

He said: "I am glad I came here.

"Of course, one has a theoretical view that these things must be very complex, but it is only when you visit a place where things are being done that the magnitude of the task really hits you.

"I wish you all strength and success.

"I am sure it will be a Games that India is going to be proud of and the Commonwealth, too."

Sharma's comments will have helped boost the morale of an organising committee amid reports that local citizens in Delhi are growing disillusioned with the Games because of the delays over building facilities and a spiraling budget.

There is also embarrassment that 43 workers have been killed during the building of construction work, something that Sharma discussed privately with Commonwealth Games organisers.

They are also upset at reports that some countries are considering not competing because of the threat of terrorism at the Games, which are due to open on October 3.

Sharma said: "I have confidence that the infrastructure will be ready in time and the Games will be a big success."


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