Varanasi: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated the 72nd Senior National Volleyball Championship at Dr. Sampurnanand Sports Stadium, Sigra, Varanasi, highlighting the transformative role of sports in youth empowerment and national development. Addressing athletes and sports enthusiasts, the CM said, “Sports power is nation power,” underlining the state’s commitment to nurturing a new sports culture, modern infrastructure, and opportunities for young athletes that can have an impact at the international level. Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the prestigious championship.
Sports as a Catalyst for National Development
The Chief Minister emphasized that when confidence emerges from sports fields and the hard work of youth translates into the nation’s strength, development goes beyond infrastructure and becomes a part of values, culture, and character building. He said that Uttar Pradesh’s evolving sports ecosystem is contributing to national leadership in sports, reflecting the vision of a robust and inclusive sports culture.
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Transformation in Mindset Towards Sports
CM Yogi noted that over the past 11 to 11.5 years, India has witnessed a historic shift in its attitude towards sports. Initiatives like Khelo India, Fit India Movement, and other programs under Prime Minister Modi have made sports a tool not only for competition but also for personality development and nation-building. These initiatives have strengthened discipline, fitness, and team spirit, making sports an integral part of youth development.
From Village Grounds to Global Arenas
The CM highlighted the expansion of sports at all levels—from Gram Panchayat competitions to national championships. Local, district, and parliamentary-level events have helped identify hidden talent, resulting in Uttar Pradesh athletes winning multiple medals at the Olympics, Commonwealth Games, and other international events.
MoU Between SAI and UP Sports Directorate
During the inauguration, an MoU was signed between the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the UP Sports Directorate to operate the National Centre of Excellence (NCOE). This collaboration aims to provide cutting-edge training, scientific coaching, and international-standard facilities for young athletes across the state.
Modern Infrastructure Driving Sports Development
The Chief Minister noted that hosting the Senior National Volleyball Championship in UP after 43 years demonstrates the state’s improved sports infrastructure. Facilities like the Dr. Sampurnanand Sports Stadium, developed under the Smart City initiative, showcase Prime Minister Modi’s vision for modern sports complexes. Additionally, village-level playgrounds, district stadiums, and mini-stadiums at development block levels have strengthened the state’s sports ecosystem.
Hosting 58 Teams in Varanasi
CM Yogi welcomed 58 participating teams—30 men’s and 28 women’s teams—along with their coaches and officials, wishing them a bright future in sports. He also conducted a field inspection of the stadium, reviewed gym and sports equipment, and encouraged players, including those practicing shooting and other disciplines.
Distinguished Guests at the Inauguration
The ceremony was attended by Deputy CM Brajesh Pathak, Rajya Sabha MP Amar Pal Maurya, Minister of State Ravindra Jaiswal, Dayashankar Mishra ‘Dayalu’, Sports Minister Girish Chandra Yadav, Mayor Ashok Tiwari, Zila Panchayat Chairperson Poonam Maurya, and several other dignitaries and officials.
