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PM Modi Inaugurates 72nd National Volleyball Tournament in Varanasi
Jan 04, 2026Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday inaugurated the 72nd National Volleyball Tournament in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, through video conferencing. Addressing the occasion, the Prime Minister said that India’s performance in sports has shown consistent improvement since 2014 due to focused reforms and an athlete-centric approach.
Mr Modi stated that India is making a strong bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games and highlighted key initiatives such as the National Sports Governance Act and Khelo Bharat Niti 2025, aimed at strengthening the country’s sports ecosystem. He said the government is working on talent identification, scientific training methods, nutritious support for athletes, and transparent selection processes.
Emphasising the role of young athletes, the Prime Minister said the nation feels proud when Gen Z players hoist the tricolour on international platforms. Drawing a comparison between volleyball and national development, he noted that the sport promotes teamwork, cooperation, and shared responsibility, which are equally essential for the country’s progress.
The eight-day tournament, being held from 4 to 11 January, has attracted participation from across the country, with over 1,000 players competing in 58 teams representing various states and institutions. The event is expected to showcase high standards of competition and sportsmanship.
Hosting the tournament in Varanasi highlights the city’s growing role as a hub for major national sporting and cultural events and reflects the government’s emphasis on strengthening sports infrastructure and promoting athletic development at the grassroots level.
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