Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 72nd National Volleyball Tournament in Varanasi, emphasizing vast opportunities for Indian youth in sports and education. He highlighted government reforms like increased budgets, athlete-centric models, and policies enabling balanced growth in athletics and academics, positioning India for global sporting glory by 2036.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually launched the 72nd Senior National Volleyball Championship in Varanasi on January 4, 2026, drawing parallels between sports dynamism and India's development journey. He welcomed athletes to the ancient city, noting how such events showcase the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat spirit while fostering national unity. Modi praised Varanasi's rise as a sports hub, underscoring the tournament's role in elevating the city's profile on the national sporting map.
The Prime Minister reflected on India's sports transformation since 2014, with young athletes now evoking national pride through consistent global performances. He detailed a shift to an athlete-centric ecosystem, marked by talent scouting, scientific training, nutrition support, and merit-based selections. These efforts ensure even youth from humble backgrounds can reach pinnacles of success.
Key Highlights
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Tournament Launch Captures Unity: Inauguration reflects Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat ethos, uniting players nationwide in Varanasi's historic setting.
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Sports Budget Surge: Government has substantially boosted funding, prioritizing athlete needs from grassroots to elite levels.
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Athlete-Centric Reforms: Focus on talent identification, scientific methods, nutrition, and transparency via National Sports Governance Act.
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Khelo India Impact: Thousands of young talents now compete nationally, balancing sports with education under 2025 policy.
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Global Ambitions: India set to host 2030 Commonwealth Games; strong bid for 2036 Olympics to amplify youth exposure.
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Infrastructure Boost: Initiatives like TOPS provide world-class training, events hosting, and Olympic sports at school level.
Modi's vision extends to unlimited opportunities, where sports complements education for holistic youth development. Programs like Sansad Khel Mahotsav further grassroots talent, urging MPs to nurture future Olympians. This athlete-first approach promises a sporting revolution, empowering youth to wave the Tricolour high.
Sources: Press Information Bureau (PIB), DD News, UNI India, The Hindu BusinessLine