Varanasi, Jan 4 (NationPress) The 72nd National Volleyball Championship is taking place at the Sigra Stadium in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, featuring over 58 teams and 1,000 players from various states competing this week.

Teams have gathered in the city, ready to compete for prestigious titles at the newly refurbished Dr Sampurnanand Multipurpose Sports Stadium (commonly known as Sigra Stadium), part of the Smart City initiative.

As the competition unfolds, players will showcase exceptional levels of talent and sportsmanship in Indian volleyball.

Upon their arrival, participants received a warm welcome, expressing heartfelt appreciation to the organizers and local residents. Many athletes from Jammu and Kashmir shared their excitement about visiting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s constituency for the first time.

Balwinder Singh Jamwal, head coach of the Jammu and Kashmir women's team, stated, "The support from the government and our association has significantly uplifted sports in our region. We are thrilled to be in Varanasi, a holy city and the parliamentary constituency of Prime Minister Modi. The welcome we've received is wonderful."

Sadaf Manzoor commented, "The competition is fierce with strong teams from across the nation. We will strive to perform our best."

Reflecting on her inaugural visit to Varanasi, she noted that the entire team felt greatly welcomed, for which they are very thankful.

“In the past, it was challenging for girls to engage in sports, but thanks to the Central government under PM Modi, our participation in sports is growing in Jammu and Kashmir,” she remarked.

Regarding competing in a hijab, she mentioned, "We play while wearing hijabs, and we haven't encountered any issues."

Aayat from the Kashmir valley expressed, "The national-level competition is tough and presents significant challenges. We are receiving excellent facilities under the current government, from coaching to sports amenities. The reception here has been great."

Commenting on wearing a hijab while playing, she said, "This is a part of our culture. We have no issues playing this way; we are recognized solely as athletes."

Importantly, the 72nd National Volleyball Championship runs from January 4 to January 11 and was inaugurated virtually by Prime Minister Modi earlier today.