Is the Shaktidoot Scheme a Game-Changer for Grassroots Sports?
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Synopsis
Discover how the Shaktidoot Scheme is revolutionizing grassroots sports in Gujarat, with table tennis emerging as a key success story. Join us as we explore the inspiring journeys of athletes like Harmeet Desai, Manav Thakkar, and Manush Shah, who are making waves on the international stage.
Key Takeaways
- Shaktidoot Scheme launched in 2006 to promote grassroots sports.
- Success stories include athletes like Harmeet Desai and Manav Thakkar.
- Increased participation in state-level table tennis competitions.
- Supportive infrastructure and financial assistance are crucial.
- Gujarat is rapidly becoming a center for table tennis talent.
New Delhi, July 22 (NationPress) Gujarat Sports Minister Harsh Sanghavi has praised the Shaktidoot Yojana as a transformative force for grassroots sports in the region, particularly highlighting the burgeoning table tennis ecosystem as a significant example.
The table tennis landscape in Gujarat is experiencing a powerful yet silent revolution, driven by the visionary Shaktidoot Yojana, an initiative that the Government of Gujarat launched in 2006. This scheme is tailored to nurture and uplift the next generation of sports talent, playing a crucial role in advancing the state's athletes on both national and international platforms.
Notable success stories include paddlers Harmeet Desai, Manav Thakkar, and Manush Shah, who have proudly represented India at premier sporting events like the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics, and have achieved significant victories at the Commonwealth Games, Asian Championships, and various global tournaments.
Reflecting on this remarkable shift, Harsh Sanghavi stated, “The Shaktidoot Scheme has revolutionized grassroots sports in Gujarat. It was our honorable Prime Minister's vision to inspire grassroots athletes through financial support, providing structured assistance—from coaching to exposure—allowing our table tennis talents to excel on national and international stages.
The achievements of Harmeet, Manav, and Manush have significantly influenced increased participation at state-level competitions over the last decade, serving as a testament to the success of this initiative since its inception in 2006,” the Minister added.
Harmeet Desai, an Arjuna Awardee and currently ranked World No. 72, has been part of the Shaktidoot program since 2007, earning gold and bronze medals at the 2018 Commonwealth Games and contributing to India's team bronze at both the Asian Games and Asian Team Championships.
“Dedication, determination, and diligence are essential for any athlete's success. However, without financial backing, even the most gifted sportsperson may find it hard to progress. Proper training facilities and exposure are vital. The Shaktidoot Scheme has been invaluable for me; it’s the unwavering support from the Sports Authority of Gujarat that has enabled me to compete consistently over the years,” Desai remarked.
Manav Thakkar, currently ranked World No. 48, was the top U21 player globally in 2020 and continues to achieve milestones with titles at the Commonwealth Championships and international doubles competitions. Manush Shah, who joined the program in 2014-15, recently clinched mixed doubles gold at the 2025 WTT Condenser in Tunisia and was crowned National Champion earlier this year.
All three paddlers played crucial roles in India's bronze-medal achievements at the 2023 and 2024 Asian Team Championships held in South Korea and Kazakhstan, respectively, showcasing Gujarat’s expanding influence in the sport. Notably, both Harmeet and Manav represented India at the 2024 Paris Olympics, marking a historic milestone for the state.
Sports Secretary of Gujarat, Ashwani Kumar, added, “Under the vision of Hon'ble Prime Minister Modi, initiatives like Shaktidoot are cultivating champions in less-highlighted sports such as table tennis. With focused mentorship and infrastructure support, table tennis in Gujarat has undergone a significant transformation. We have backed numerous players who have made it to the national rankings. We take pride that Gujarat is leading by example in inclusive sports development.”
This initiative has sparked a surge in grassroots table tennis participation. Tournaments organized by the Gujarat State Table Tennis Association (GSTTA) have consistently seen a rise in entries, increasing from 571 (across 6 tournaments) in 2016-17 to over 660 (in 3 tournaments) in the current season.
Hari Pillai, Secretary of GSTTA, stated, “Harmeet, Manav, and Manush were integral to the bronze medal-winning squad at the esteemed Asian Table Tennis Championships in 2023 and 2024. Additionally, Harmeet and Manush were part of a three-member team at the Paris Olympics, a remarkable achievement for Gujarat.”
With players consistently entering global rankings and grassroots participation on the rise, Gujarat’s Shaktidoot Scheme stands as a benchmark in athlete development. As more champions emerge, Gujarat is rapidly establishing itself as a powerhouse in Indian table tennis.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the profound impact of the Shaktidoot Scheme on grassroots sports in Gujarat. The initiative not only fosters talent but also promotes inclusivity and accessibility in sports, aligning with national priorities of holistic development and empowerment through athletics. This comprehensive approach is commendable and sets a benchmark for similar programs nationwide.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Shaktidoot Scheme?
The Shaktidoot Scheme is an initiative launched by the Government of Gujarat in 2006, aimed at nurturing and promoting grassroots sports talent, with a focus on providing structured support such as coaching and financial assistance.
Who are some notable athletes supported by the Shaktidoot Scheme?
Notable athletes include Harmeet Desai, Manav Thakkar, and Manush Shah, who have achieved significant success in table tennis and represented India in various international competitions.
How has the Shaktidoot Scheme impacted grassroots sports participation?
The scheme has led to a rise in participation at state-level competitions, with entries in tournaments organized by the Gujarat State Table Tennis Association increasing significantly over the years.
What are the key achievements of athletes under this scheme?
Athletes like Harmeet Desai have won medals at prestigious events such as the Commonwealth Games and Asian Championships, while also competing in the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics.
Why is Gujarat becoming a powerhouse in Indian table tennis?
With consistent support from the Shaktidoot Scheme, athletes from Gujarat are excelling in national and international tournaments, contributing to the state's growing reputation in the sport.
