Indian Volleyball Legend Wins IOC Award for Grassroots Initiative
Image Source: Internet
Former India volleyball captain Abhijit Bhattacharya has been awarded the IOC's Global Winner of the 2025 IOC Gender Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Champions Awards for his grassroots initiative in rural Assam.
Bhattacharya's programme, The Assam Volleyball Mission 100 (AVM100) and the Brahmaputra Volleyball League (BVL), has reached over 12,000 children across 400 teams, promoting gender equality and social development.
The IOC praised Bhattacharya's work, saying it demonstrates how sport can empower young people, particularly girls, by building confidence and unlocking opportunities.
Bhattacharya expressed his gratitude, saying the award is not just a recognition of his work but a tribute to every volunteer and young girl who believed in themselves enough to play volleyball.
Alongside Bhattacharya, five continental winners have been recognised for their contributions to gender equality and inclusion in sport.
