Is PM Modi Set to Virtually Inaugurate the 72nd National Volleyball Tournament on January 4?
Synopsis
Prime Minister Modi's virtual inauguration of the 72nd National Volleyball Tournament is set to spotlight Varanasi's sports ambitions. With over 1,000 players competing, this event not only marks a milestone for Indian sports but also enhances the region's sports infrastructure, promising a legacy for future athletes.
Key Takeaways
Prime Minister Modi to inaugurate the tournament virtually.
Over 1,000 players expected to compete.
First national volleyball championship in Purvanchal .
Focus on sports infrastructure and youth engagement.
Random anti-doping tests to ensure fairness.
New Delhi, Jan 3 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the 72nd National Volleyball Tournament on January 4 at noon via video conferencing. This event marks a pivotal moment for Indian sports and holds significance for his parliamentary constituency of Varanasi. The opening ceremony will occur at Dr Sampoornanand Sports Stadium, highlighting the city’s burgeoning sports aspirations under the ‘Khelo India’ initiative.
The tournament, taking place from January 4 to 11, is expected to gather teams nationwide, featuring over 1,000 athletes competing for glory. A total of 73 teams, both men’s and women’s, representing various states and institutions, will partake, showcasing a high caliber of competition and an impressive display of talent in Indian volleyball.
The choice to host this prestigious national tournament in Varanasi reflects a broader strategy to enhance the sports infrastructure in the region. Notably, this will be the first time Purvanchal is hosting a national-level volleyball championship of this magnitude, marking a significant uplift in Kashi’s evolving identity as a hub for major sporting and cultural events.
While the Prime Minister will connect with attendees virtually, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will be present on-site to engage and inspire the participating players.
Prior to the event, Ashok Kumar Tiwari, organizing committee chairman and Varanasi Mayor, along with Brijesh Pathak, Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and president of the Volleyball Association, met with the Prime Minister in New Delhi to extend a formal invitation. During their discussion, Modi expressed his best wishes and described the tournament as a motivational platform for the nation’s youth.
Incorporating a unique local touch, the organizers have introduced mascots inspired by regional culture: ‘Nandu’, based on Nandi, and the Ganga dolphin ‘Neera’.
To uphold fairness and integrity, random anti-doping tests will be conducted throughout the tournament. The organizers aim for this championship to not only elevate the standard of volleyball in the nation but also to establish a lasting legacy for sports development in eastern Uttar Pradesh.
Point of View
The inauguration of the 72nd National Volleyball Tournament by Prime Minister Modi signifies a commitment to enhancing sports infrastructure in Varanasi and beyond. This event is not just about competition; it is a strategic move to inspire the youth of our nation and promote a culture of sportsmanship across various regions.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the 72nd National Volleyball Tournament take place?
The tournament is scheduled from January 4 to January 11.
Where is the opening ceremony being held?
The opening ceremony will take place at Dr Sampoornanand Sports Stadium in Varanasi.
How many teams are participating in the tournament?
A total of 73 men’s and women’s teams are expected to compete.
Who will inaugurate the tournament?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the tournament virtually.
What is the aim of the tournament?
The tournament aims to elevate the standard of volleyball in the country and promote sports development in eastern Uttar Pradesh.
