PM Modi unveils National Volleyball Tournament, says India eyes 2036 Olympics bid

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 72nd National Volleyball Tournament in Varanasi via video conferencing on Sunday, using the occasion to highlight India’s rising sporting ambitions, including preparations to host global events and bids for the Olympics.

Addressing players, officials, and dignitaries, he welcomed teams from across the country and expressed pride that the championship was in his parliamentary constituency. With squads from 28 states assembled, it embodied Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat. He congratulated the players for reaching the national stage after years of hard work.

On India’s global aspirations, Modi noted the country’s intent to host marquee events. “The 2030 Commonwealth Games will be in India, and we are pushing strongly for the 2036 Olympics,” he said. Such initiatives, he added, would boost opportunities for athletes. India has hosted over 20 major international events in the past decade, signalling growing global trust in its capabilities.

Drawing parallels between volleyball and nation-building, the Prime Minister said: “Volleyball teaches that no victory comes alone. Our success hinges on coordination, trust, and team readiness.”

Emphasising collective effort, he added: “Everyone has a role and responsibility; we succeed when each fulfils theirs seriously. Our nation is advancing the same way.”

Modi highlighted India’s improved global performance since 2014, with pride in Gen Z athletes raising the Tricolour. He recalled past neglect of sports by society and government, which bred athlete uncertainty. The last decade brought change: higher budgets, athlete-centric policies, talent scouting, scientific training, nutrition, and transparent selection.

He framed sports within the government’s Reform Express, citing the National Sports Governance Act and Khelo Bharat Policy 2025 to boost transparency and let young athletes balance sports and education.

Modi praised Varanasi’s sporting heritage in wrestling, boxing, boat races, and kabaddi, plus institutions like Banaras Hindu University, UP College, and Kashi Vidyapeeth that have produced national players. The city’s enthusiasm would make the event memorable, he said.

New sports facilities and complexes around Varanasi will aid athletes from nearby districts. Sigra Stadium, the venue, now boasts modern amenities for major national events.

Modi urged players to excel, hoping every spike, block, and point would fuel India’s dreams. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath attended with other dignitaries.

The tournament runs from January 4-11, featuring over 1,000 players in 58 teams from states and institutions, reinforcing Varanasi’s role as a sporting hub.