New Delhi, Jan 4: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that India’s sports ecosystem has become “athlete-centric”, driven by reforms focused on talent identification, scientific training, and transparent selection, as he inaugurated the 72nd National Volleyball Tournament in Varanasi via video conferencing, being held from January 4 to 11, features over 1,000 players competing in 58 teams representing states and institutions from across the country.
Addressing players, officials and spectators, the Prime Minister said the shift in approach over the past decade reflects a broader change in both government and societal attitudes towards sports.
He noted that earlier uncertainty over careers had discouraged many young people from taking up sports professionally, but sustained reforms and increased investment have helped rebuild confidence among athletes.
Welcoming teams from 28 states, PM Modi said the national championship presented a vivid example of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat”, with players who had reached the tournament after years of hard work now set to compete on the courts of Varanasi.
Extending his best wishes, he said the city’s sports-loving public would ensure an enthusiastic atmosphere throughout the event.
Describing Varanasi as a city with a deep sporting tradition, the Prime Minister said disciplines such as wrestling, boxing, kabaddi and boat racing have long flourished here.
He noted that institutions including Banaras Hindu University, UP College and Kashi Vidyapeeth have produced several state and national-level players, adding that the city has historically welcomed those pursuing knowledge, art, and excellence.
Highlighting the nature of volleyball, PM Modi said the sport symbolises balance, cooperation and the spirit of “Team First.”
Drawing a parallel with India’s development journey, he said no victory, on the court or in nation-building, is achieved alone, but depends on coordination, trust and every individual fulfilling their responsibility.
Referring to India’s improving performance across multiple sporting disciplines, the Prime Minister said the country’s rising global confidence is visible not only in its economy but also on the sports field.
He expressed pride in seeing young and Gen-Z athletes hoisting the tricolour at international events.
PM Modi said Varanasi has benefited from improved sports infrastructure, with modern facilities and upgraded venues such as the Sigra Stadium, which is hosting the tournament.
Hosting national and international events, he said, is helping position the city as a major destination for large platforms, alongside cultural and diplomatic gatherings held here in recent years.
Encouraging players to make the most of both the competition and the city’s heritage, PM Modi wished all participants success, expressing hope that every spike and block from Varanasi would contribute to India’s sporting aspirations.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and other dignitaries were present at the inauguration.