How is the Gujarat government supporting women in sports?
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Synopsis
The Gujarat government is making significant strides in promoting women's sports, with over Rs 147 lakh allocated to athletes under the Shaktidoot scheme. This initiative not only supports individual talent but also fosters a broader cultural shift towards women's participation in sports across the state.
Key Takeaways
- Gujarat government is investing heavily in women's sports.
- Over Rs 147 lakh allocated to support 13 women athletes.
- Shaktidoot Yojana aims to enhance performance at national and international levels.
- Khel Mahakumbh is Asia's largest grassroots talent program.
- Sports budget increased dramatically from Rs 2.5 crore to Rs 484 crore.
Gandhinagar, Sep 22 (NationPress) The Gujarat government is enhancing women's participation in sports by allocating over Rs 147 lakh in financial aid to 13 female athletes through the Shaktidoot Yojana for the fiscal year 2024-25, as per government officials on Monday.
This initiative, which began in 2006, aims to provide tailored support to talented sportspersons, enabling them to shine at both national and international arenas.
Throughout its history, this scheme has benefited prominent athletes like tennis star Ankita Raina, swimmer Maana Patel, sprinter Sarita Gayakwad, shooter Elavenil Valarivan, and para table tennis champion Bhavina Patel.
Additionally, the state has launched a special cash prize initiative for female athletes, distributing over Rs 11 crore to date.
Gujarat's flagship sports program, 'Khel Mahakumbh', initiated by former Chief Minister Narendra Modi in 2010, has evolved into Asia's largest grassroots talent identification effort, attracting more than 26.5 lakh women participants.
Today, athletes such as Ankita Raina, Maana Patel, and Sarita Gayakwad have successfully placed Gujarat on the global sports map, motivating a new wave of female athletes.
Over the last 20 years, Gujarat has experienced a significant evolution in its sports infrastructure and policies.
From a mere sports budget of Rs 2.5 crore in 2002, the funding has surged to over Rs 484 crore, with the 2022-27 Sports Policy under current Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel further enhancing training, facilities, and recognition for athletes.
In two decades, Gujarat has transitioned from modest beginnings to a thriving ecosystem with world-class sports facilities.
The introduction of Khel Mahakumbh in 2010, recognized as Asia's largest grassroots talent search, has successfully identified thousands of young athletes, while the state has also invested in modern stadiums, sports complexes, and training academies across various districts.
The Sports Policy under Chief Minister Patel has bolstered this initiative by prioritizing international-level coaching, scientific training methods, and global exposure.
Consequently, Gujarat now features premier facilities such as the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave in Ahmedabad, the Narendra Modi Stadium—the largest cricket venue worldwide—and numerous specialized centers for athletics, swimming, shooting, and tennis.
Point of View
I emphasize the Gujarat government's commitment to fostering women's sports. The allocation of funds and the establishment of programs like Shaktidoot Yojana and Khel Mahakumbh reflect a progressive approach to sports development, ensuring that female athletes receive the recognition and support they deserve on national and international stages.
NationPress
23/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Shaktidoot Yojana?
The Shaktidoot Yojana is a financial assistance program launched by the Gujarat government to support female athletes, helping them excel in sports at national and international levels.
How much funding has been allocated for women athletes?
The Gujarat government has allocated over Rs 147 lakh in financial aid to 13 women athletes under the Shaktidoot Yojana for 2024-25.
Who are some notable beneficiaries of this scheme?
Prominent athletes such as Ankita Raina, Maana Patel, Sarita Gayakwad, Elavenil Valarivan, and Bhavina Patel have benefitted from the Shaktidoot Yojana.
What is Khel Mahakumbh?
Khel Mahakumbh is Gujarat's flagship sports initiative, initiated in 2010, to identify grassroots talent and promote sports among women, making it Asia's largest talent hunt program.
How has Gujarat's sports budget changed over the years?
Gujarat's sports budget has increased from Rs 2.5 crore in 2002 to over Rs 484 crore, reflecting a strong commitment to sports development.
