Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 72nd National Volleyball Tournament in Varanasi, emphasizing the essence of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’ and the government’s commitment to enhancing India’s sports landscape. Modi commended the progress in India’s sports performance since 2014, expressing pride in the achievements of young athletes on the global stage. Teams from 28 states are participating in the tournament, showcasing unity and diversity under the theme of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’.
Welcoming the players to Varanasi, Modi highlighted the city’s rich sporting culture and the diverse range of sports activities it offers. He mentioned that Varanasi has a history of producing national-level athletes and emphasized the city’s enthusiasm for sports. Modi underscored the values of teamwork and determination associated with volleyball, stating that the sport symbolizes India’s rich traditions and collective effort towards success.
The Prime Minister praised the spirit of unity and teamwork in volleyball, drawing parallels with the nation’s development journey. He emphasized the importance of coordination and collective success, stating that every victory is a result of team effort. Modi highlighted India’s progress in sports over the years, attributing the success to a shift in societal and governmental attitudes towards sports.
Referring to policy reforms and initiatives like the National Sports Governance Act and Khelo India initiative 2025, Modi emphasized the government’s focus on creating better opportunities for athletes. He noted the significant increase in the sports budget and the country’s transition into an athlete-centric nation. Modi also highlighted India’s successful hosting of major international sporting events and its preparations for future competitions like the 2030 Commonwealth Games and the bid for the 2036 Olympic Games.
The Khelo India programme was acknowledged for providing platforms for young athletes to showcase their talent at the national level. Modi expressed pride in the participation of nearly three lakh youth from Varanasi in the SANSAD Sports Festival and highlighted the ongoing development of sports infrastructure in the city. He noted that hosting events like the National Volleyball Competition contributes to Varanasi’s recognition as a significant sporting destination, boosting local economic activities.
