"Game of balance, cooperation": PM Modi draws parallels between volleyball and India's growth story

Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh) [India], January 4 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday inaugurated the 72nd National Volleyball Championship via video conferencing, extending greetings to players from across the country and underlining the role of sports in nation-building.
Addressing the event, PM Modi emphasised the parallels between volleyball and India's growth story, highlighting the importance of teamwork, coordination, and trust.
Speaking at an event, he said volleyball teaches valuable lessons about balance, cooperation, and willpower, reflecting India's journey towards progress, the result of teamwork and coordination among its people.
"Volleyball is a game of balance and cooperation... it also demonstrates willpower. Volleyball connects us through team spirit... I see many similarities between India's growth story and volleyball... Volleyball teaches us that our victory depends on our coordination, our trust, and our team's preparation... We succeed only when everyone fulfils their responsibilities. Our country is also progressing in the same way," said PM Modi.
The Prime Minister said he was proud to welcome athletes to Kashi and described the tournament as a reflection of India's unity and collective spirit.
Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister, who is also the Member of Parliament from Varanasi, said he was delighted to welcome athletes to Kashi. "As the Member of Parliament for Kashi, I am delighted to welcome and congratulate all the players. You have reached this national tournament after a lot of hard work," PM Modi said. He noted that teams from 28 states are participating, presenting a vivid picture of 'Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat'.
Highlighting Varanasi's sporting legacy, PM Modi said the city has always been a hub for sports lovers. "Many sports like wrestling, boxing, boat racing, and kabaddi are famous here. Banaras has also given many national players to the country," he said, expressing confidence that the energy of the city would remain high throughout the tournament. He added that participants would not only compete but also experience Kashi's rich culture, with encouragement from local residents.
PM Modi further said, "Today India's sports model is athlete-centric. The welfare of the athletes is prioritised in every way. The government made huge reforms in the sports sector. With the National Sports Governance Act and Khelo Bharat Neeti 2025, the right talent will get the opportunity and transparency will increase in sports."
The Prime Minister concluded by wishing all teams success and encouraging players to give their best on the national stage. (ANI)