Empowering Young Athletes: Gujarat's District Level Sports School Initiative
Introduction to the DLSS Scheme
In Gandhinagar, Gujarat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the importance of discipline, sportsmanship, and teamwork, which are often cultivated on the field rather than in classrooms. He initiated the District Level Sports School (DLSS) program during his time as Chief Minister, highlighting the role of sports in holistic personal development.
Overview of the Scheme
As per a statement from the Gujarat Chief Minister's Office, the DLSS scheme aims to support aspiring athletes by offering free education alongside professional sports training. Currently, there are 39 operational District Level Sports Schools throughout Gujarat, benefiting over 12,000 athletes.
Objectives and Selection Process
Launched in the 2013-14 period by the Sports Authority of Gujarat, the DLSS initiative focuses on both sports training and academic education. Players are chosen based on two categories: Young Talent and Proven Talent, the latter being those who have already achieved success in their sports.
Benefits for Selected Athletes
Athletes selected under this scheme enjoy numerous benefits, including free education, books, accommodation, meals, uniforms, sports kits, and a stipend. The training is designed to be comprehensive, emphasizing fitness, technique, nutrition, and injury prevention, which has significantly prepared players for national and international events.
Achievements of DLSS Athletes
In the past two years, athletes from the DLSS have secured an impressive 3,444 medals at state competitions and 335 at the national level. Notably, four athletes also competed internationally, bringing home a bronze medal.
Success Stories
Elavenil Valarivan, a shooting champion and Arjuna Awardee, is a notable former DLSS athlete. She trained at Laxman Gyanpith School in Sanand from 2014 to 2017, which she credits for her success. Elavenil has achieved multiple medals, including gold at the 2025 Asian Championship and bronze at the 2025 World Championship, and has represented India in the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympics.
Opinaben Devjibhai Bhilar, a Kho Kho player from Biliamba village, also benefited from the DLSS. She has won several medals, including gold at the Kho Kho World Cup 2025 and the Senior National Kho Kho Championship 2024. She shared her journey of joining DLSS in 2014 and how it paved the way for her success, leading her to become a coach in Panchmahal district.