Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya on Monday honored the historic Indian volleyball team, which created history by winning the country’s first medal in the AVC Men’s Volleyball Cup 2026. The team defeated Bahrain 3–1 in the third-place playoff to win the bronze medal, India’s first medal and best finish in the history of the AVC Men’s Volleyball Cup.
The bronze medal earned valuable FIVB World Ranking points, resulting in the Indian men’s team jumping 18 places from World No. 60 to World No. 42, further strengthening India’s position on the global volleyball stage.
Congratulating the players, coaching staff and support personnel, Dr Mandaviya said, “This medal is historic, but it should only be the beginning. With every achievement comes responsibility and expectations. Every policy, every investment and every effort of the government is aimed at helping our athletes achieve their full potential and consistently excel on the international stage.”
A proud moment for Indian volleyball!
Felicitated our men’s team on scripting history with India’s first-ever AVC Men’s Volleyball Cup Medal Bronze.
From successfully hosting the championship for the first time to securing a historic podium finish and rising to World No. 42, pic.twitter.com/xGKvo5MkkO
— Dr Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) June 29, 2026
Highlighting India’s stellar performance, the Union Sports Minister said that the historic podium finish on home soil reflects the continued growth of volleyball in the country and showcases the nation’s ability to host major international sporting events.
What is AVC Cup?
The AVC Men’s Volleyball Cup is Asia’s premier annual continental men’s volleyball competition. The 2026 edition was the first time India hosted the tournament, adding another important chapter to the country’s sporting calendar.
Addressing the players, Dr Mandaviya said that the Modi government is building a strong sports ecosystem through long-term planning, academy development, talent identification, greater use of sports science, athlete welfare and better international exposure.
Proud moment for the country… Sports Minister said on victory
Expressing confidence in the future of Indian volleyball, Dr Mandaviya said that the team’s historic achievement will inspire young athletes across the country and provide new impetus to the growth of the game at all levels.
Speaking on behalf of the team, Captain Jerome Vineeth Charles expressed his gratitude for the support given by the Government of India and dedicated the historic medal to the people of the country.
He said, “This historic medal belongs not only to us but to every Indian who packed the stadium and cheered us throughout the tournament. Their encouragement gave us the strength to fight for every point.”
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