Shaktidoot Scheme
Talented Gujarat athletes under 20 who have won state-level competitions and show potential for national or international excellence receive comprehensive support including up to ₹25 lakh/year, advanced training, nutrition, medical insurance, and coaching under the Shaktidoot Scheme. The Sports Authority of Gujarat selects beneficiaries through a committee and announces openings via newspaper advertisements. Initial support lasts 2 years and can be extended up to 7 years based on performance.
About This Scheme
Talented Gujarat athletes under 20 who have won state-level competitions and show potential for national or international excellence receive comprehensive support including up to ₹25 lakh/year, advanced training, nutrition, medical insurance, and coaching under the Shaktidoot Scheme. The Sports Authority of Gujarat selects beneficiaries through a committee and announces openings via newspaper advertisements. Initial support lasts 2 years and can be extended up to 7 years based on performance.
Full official description
The "Shaktidoot Scheme" Sports, Youth and Cultural Activities Department, Gujarat, is designed to nurture promising athletes in Gujarat by providing resources to help them excel in sports. The scheme focuses on developing champions by offering need-based assistance, including nutritious food, advanced sports facilities, modern equipment, competition expenses, expert trainers, psychological workshops, and sports medicine. Financial aid varies based on the athlete’s potential, achievements, and the level of competition they participate in. Additional provisions include medical coverage and accidental death insurance.
Benefits
- Financial support: up to ₹25,00,000 per year for Olympic-level athletes
- Custom sports equipment and advanced training tools
- ₹5,00,000 mediclaim insurance and accidental death coverage
- Customized nutrition plans and supplementary diet funding
- Psychological training and mental focus workshops
- Travel and training expenses for international competitions
- Expert coaching and accommodation near training venues
- Duration: 2 years initially, extendable up to 7 years
Who Can Apply (Eligibility)
- Must be under 20 years of age
- Must have won state-level competitions in a sport recognized by School Games Federation of India, Commonwealth Games, Asian Games, or Olympics
- Must have competed in Junior or sub-junior All India Federation events (open category)
- Must not have used banned substances or have any disqualifying condition
- Previous two years of sports achievements will be considered for selection
How to Apply
Step-1: The Sports Authority of Gujarat publishes a public tender in daily newspapers, inviting applications for the scheme. Step-2: Applicants must ensure they meet the eligibility criteria specified in the scheme before applying. Step-3: Interested players must fill out the application form and submit it along with the required documents within the specified deadline. Step-4: The Sports Authority of Gujarat verifies the submitted documents and reviews the applicant’s achievements and qualifications. Step-5: A committee evaluates the applications based on the applicant’s performance, potential, and adherence to eligibility criteria. Step-6: Selected applicants are informed through official communication from the Sports Authority of Gujarat. Step-7: Successful applicants are enrolled in the scheme and begin receiving the specified benefits and support.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the "Shaktidoot Scheme"?
The purpose of the "Shaktidoot Scheme" is to support talented sportspersons in Gujarat by providing them with resources and financial assistance to excel at national and international levels.
Who is eligible to apply for the "Shaktidoot Scheme"?
Applicants must be residents of Gujarat, meet the specified age and achievement criteria, and participate in recognized sports events to be eligible for the scheme.
What age group does the scheme cover?
The scheme generally covers athletes up to 20 years of age, but age relaxation may be granted for exceptional cases based on merit.
Which sports are recognized under this scheme?
The scheme recognizes games approved by the School Games Federation of India, Commonwealth Games, Asian Games, the Afro-Asian Games, and the Olympics.
What kind of financial assistance is provided?
Financial assistance up to [?]25,00,000/- per year, depending on the athlete's achievements and level of competition.
Are state-level achievements considered for selection?
Yes, athletes below the age of 12 who win state-level competitions are eligible for selection under the scheme.
Is participation in international competitions supported?
Yes, the scheme provides financial support for travel, training, and other expenses related to international competitions.
How are applicants selected for the scheme?
A committee evaluates the applications based on the applicant's achievements, potential, and adherence to eligibility criteria.
What is the duration of benefits under the scheme?
The initial duration is two years, which can be extended for up to seven years based on the athlete's performance and progress.
Are athletes provided with insurance coverage?
Yes, each athlete is provided with [?]5,00,000/- mediclaim insurance and [?]5 lakh accidental death insurance under the scheme.
Can athletes purchase their own equipment under the scheme?
Yes, athletes can purchase their required equipment with prior approval, and expenses are reimbursed upon submission of valid bills.
What happens if an athlete does not show progress?
Athletes who fail to demonstrate satisfactory progress during annual evaluations may be disqualified from the scheme.
Are workshops included in the scheme benefits?
Yes, psychological workshops are organized to enhance the mental strength and focus of athletes.
How can applicants stay updated about the scheme?
Applicants can stay updated by regularly checking public tenders in newspapers and the official notifications from the Sports Authority of Gujarat.
Ready to apply?
Visit the official government portal to apply for this scheme.
Apply on myScheme.gov.inDocuments Required
- Proof of residence.
- Birth certificate.
- Sports achievement certificates (last two years).
- Endorsement from recognized sports authorities.
- Medical fitness certificate.
- Bank account details for financial transactions.
- Undertaking of not using banned substances.
- Any other documents (if required).