The Shaktidoot Scheme, introduced by the Sports, Youth and Cultural Activities Department, Gujarat, aims to nurture and support promising athletes in Gujarat. This initiative provides need-based financial aid, advanced sports training, high-quality nutrition, competition expenses, and expert coaching to help athletes achieve excellence at national and international levels.
Key Benefits
- Financial Support: Up to ₹25,00,000 per year for Olympic-level (2020/2024) athletes.
- Sports Equipment: Customized kits and advanced training tools.
- Medical Coverage: ₹5,00,000 mediclaim and accidental death insurance.
- Nutrition and Diet Plans: Customized diet plans with financial aid for supplementary nutrition.
- Psychological Workshops: Mental training and focus enhancement sessions.
- International Training and Competition: Financial aid for travel and training abroad.
- Accommodation and Coaching: Expert coaching and necessary arrangements for advanced training.
- Duration of Benefits: Initial two-year support, extendable up to seven years based on performance.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Shaktidoot Scheme, athletes must meet the following conditions:
- Must have participated in School Games Federation of India (SGFI)-recognized sports or games included in the Commonwealth Games, Asian Games, Afro-Asian Games, or Olympics.
- Must be below 20 years of age at the time of application.
- Must have won state-level competitions based on sporting achievements.
- Must have achieved success in junior or sub-junior open category competitions organized by a recognized All India Federation.
- Must not use banned substances or have any impairments that disqualify them from participation.
Note: Achievements from the previous two years will be considered for selection. However, the selection committee may grant exceptional status to an athlete based on extraordinary achievements.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Offline Application
- The Sports Authority of Gujarat publishes a public tender in daily newspapers, inviting applications.
- Applicants must review the eligibility criteria before applying.
- Interested athletes must fill out the application form and submit it along with the required documents before the deadline.
- The Sports Authority of Gujarat verifies the submitted documents and reviews the applicant’s sports achievements.
- A selection committee assesses applications based on performance, potential, and eligibility compliance.
- Selected candidates receive official communication from the Sports Authority of Gujarat.
- Successful applicants are enrolled in the scheme and start receiving the designated benefits.
Documents Required
The following documents must be submitted with the application:
- Proof of residence (Aadhar Card, Voter ID, etc.).
- Birth certificate.
- Sports achievement certificates (past two years).
- Endorsement from recognized sports authorities.
- Medical fitness certificate.
- Bank account details for financial transactions.
- Undertaking of non-usage of banned substances.
- Any other required documents as per notification.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the purpose of the Shaktidoot Scheme?
The scheme is designed to support and nurture young athletes by providing financial aid, advanced training, and necessary resources to help them excel at international levels. - Who is eligible to apply?
Athletes under 20 years old who have participated in recognized national and international competitions and achieved state-level success are eligible. - What age group does the scheme cover?
The scheme is applicable to athletes below 20 years of age. - Which sports are recognized under this scheme?
Only sports recognized by the School Games Federation of India (SGFI), Commonwealth Games, Asian Games, Afro-Asian Games, and the Olympics are included. - What kind of financial assistance is provided?
Athletes may receive up to ₹25 lakh per year, depending on their achievements and the level of competition. - Are state-level achievements considered for selection?
Yes, state-level champions are eligible for selection based on their performance and potential. - Is participation in international competitions supported?
Yes, selected athletes receive financial aid for travel and participation in global events. - How are applicants selected for the scheme?
A selection committee evaluates applications based on performance, sports achievements, and adherence to eligibility criteria. - What is the duration of benefits under the scheme?
Initially, benefits are provided for two years, extendable up to seven years based on performance. - Are athletes provided with insurance coverage?
Yes, beneficiaries receive ₹5 lakh mediclaim and accidental death insurance. - Can athletes purchase their own equipment under the scheme?
No, the scheme provides customized sports kits and advanced training tools. - What happens if an athlete does not show progress?
If an athlete fails to demonstrate progress, their benefits may be discontinued upon review by the committee. - Are psychological workshops included in the scheme?
Yes, the scheme includes mental training workshops to improve focus and performance. - How can applicants stay updated about the scheme?
Athletes can check official announcements from the Sports Authority of Gujarat through newspapers and government websites.
Sources and References