CM Yogi Adityanath speaks at inauguration of 72nd Senior National Volleyball Championship
Varanasi: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that sports have received a new vision, stronger resources and renewed confidence in Uttar Pradesh and across the country in recent years. Addressing the inauguration of the 72nd Senior National Volleyball Championship, he said that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a “new sports culture” has emerged, strengthening discipline, fitness and team spirit among the youth.
“Sports power is national power. Today, sports are no longer just a hobby but have become a strong medium for personality development and nation-building,” the Chief Minister said. He added that modern sports infrastructure, transparent selection processes and mission-mode schemes have significantly expanded opportunities for young athletes. From gram panchayats to national-level competitions, sporting platforms have been strengthened, resulting in increased participation and medal wins by Uttar Pradesh players at international events.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the championship, while CM Yogi was present at the venue—Dr Sampurnanand Sports Stadium, Sigra. During the event, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was exchanged between the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the Uttar Pradesh Sports Directorate for the operation of a National Centre of Excellence (NCOE), which will provide young athletes with world-class training facilities. CM Yogi welcomed players, coaches and officials from all 58 participating teams, including 30 men’s and 28 women’s teams.
New Sports Culture Taking Root Across the Country
CM Yogi said that over the past 11 to 11.5 years, every Indian has witnessed the rise of a new sports culture. He credited initiatives such as Khelo India, the Fit India Movement, MP–MLA Sports Competitions and the expansion of sports infrastructure in every district for fostering respect for sports nationwide. “A healthy body is the foundation of success in all dimensions of life,” he said.
Modern Sports Infrastructure Driving Change
Highlighting that the Senior National Volleyball Championship is being hosted in Uttar Pradesh after 43 years, CM Yogi said the event reflects the Prime Minister’s vision and leadership. He noted that the modern facilities at Dr Sampurnanand Sports Stadium, developed under the Smart City initiative, showcase the transformation of sports infrastructure in the state. Under the newly signed MoU, SAI coaches will guide athletes and offer them advanced training platforms in Kashi.
UP Athletes Excelling on Global Platforms
The Chief Minister said that sustained efforts over the past eight and a half years have strengthened sports at every level in Uttar Pradesh. Playgrounds in villages, stadiums in districts, mini stadiums at block levels, open gyms in urban and rural bodies, and regular competitions have helped nurture talent. “As a result, UP athletes are not only participating in national, Olympic, Commonwealth and world championships but are also winning significantly more medals than before,” he said.
CM Inspects Facilities, Encourages Athletes
CM Yogi also conducted a site inspection of the stadium, reviewed gym facilities and equipment maintenance, and interacted with young athletes. He encouraged players practising various sports and even observed a shooting demonstration by a young trainee.
Mayor Ashok Tiwari welcomed the dignitaries at the event. The inauguration ceremony was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak, Rajya Sabha MP Amar Pal Maurya, Ministers Ravindra Jaiswal and Dayashankar Mishra ‘Dayalu’, Sports Minister Girish Chandra Yadav, District Panchayat Chairperson Poonam Maurya, several MLAs, MLCs and senior officials.
