Addressing the gathering via video conferencing, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 72nd National Volleyball Tournament in Varanasi, stating that the event exemplifies the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’.
Emphasising policy reforms, he said the championship reflects sustained efforts to build a strong and inclusive sports ecosystem for young talent.
“As a parliamentarian of Kashi, I welcome all the players who have come to Varanasi from across the country. The hard work that you all have done will be tested in Kashi in the coming days. I have been told that teams from 28 states are participating, which presents a beautiful picture of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’,” PM Modi said.
“You have come to Varanasi, and now you will also get to know Varanasi. Our Varanasi is a city of sports lovers. Wrestling, boxing practice, boat racing and kabaddi are among the many popular sports here. Varanasi has also produced several national-level athletes. Students from BHU, UP College and Kashi Vidyapeeth have shone at state and national levels,” PM Modi added.
Explaining the significance of the sport, PM Modi said volleyball represents balance, cooperation and determination.
“This is not an ordinary sport. Volleyball is a game of balance and cooperation. It also demonstrates determination,” he said.
Drawing a broader comparison, he said national progress also depends on a similar sense of coordination and shared responsibility. Similarly, he added that Uttar Pradesh is advancing with unity and purpose, contributing meaningfully to the country’s development.
India’s Growing Confidence in Sports
“When a country develops, progress is not limited to the economic front alone. It is also reflected in confidence on the sports field. We have seen this clearly in recent years,” PM Modi said.
“Since 2014, India’s performance in different sports has consistently improved. We feel immense pride when we see our Gen-Z athletes hoisting the tricolour on the playing field,” he added.
Expressing pride in young achievers, he said Gen-Z athletes are increasingly hoisting the tricolour on international platforms, signalling a positive change in attitudes towards sports careers.
Recalling earlier challenges, PM Modi said there was a time when sports received limited attention from both society and governance. Over the past decade, however, he noted that a major shift has taken place.
Highlighting reforms, he said the sports budget has increased significantly, and India has become an athlete-centric nation.
Initiatives such as the National Sports Governance Act, Khelo India 2025 and TOPS, he added, are ensuring scientific training, better nutrition and transparent systems for athletes.
Pointing to international exposure, PM Modi said India has successfully hosted major sporting events, including the FIFA Under-17 World Cup, the Hockey World Cup and several global chess tournaments.
Looking ahead, he said preparations are underway to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games and bid for the 2036 Olympic Games.
Speaking about regional development, the Prime Minister said improved sports infrastructure is transforming Varanasi, with modern facilities and stadiums under construction. Hosting the National Volleyball Tournament, he said, marks an important milestone for Kashi on the national sporting map.
Concluding his address he said, “Today, this championship adds to those achievements. Through all these events, Kashi is emerging as a prominent hub for national and international gatherings.”
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