Utkarsh: Centre of Excellence for Sports, a grassroots development initiative in Khunti, Jharkhand, is redefining what’s possible when youth development, rural empowerment, and sporting excellence converge. Spearheaded by the District Administration, Khunti, with field support from the Roots Foundation, the project represents a blend of vision, strategy, and execution on the ground. Utkarsh CoES initiated in January 2024 by the District Administration, Khunti, brings together structured sports training, academic education, and personal development under one integrated program for children from remote and underserved areas. The goal is to provide young athletes with access to quality training and educational opportunities without compromising either.
As part of the project, nearly 20 scouting trials were held across all blocks of the district, covering more than 5,000 students. From this pool, 100 children aged between 12 and 17 were selected for a residential program in hockey, football, and athletics. These athletes now undergo regular training under professional coaches and live in a facility that supports both sporting and academic pursuits. Utkarsh CoES guarantees access to formal education by providing daily transportation to designated government schools. The initiative also includes structured academic schedules, nutritional meals, and career counselling support, creating a balanced ecosystem for overall development.
Within 10 months of its launch, the project has recorded encouraging results. A total of 27 athletes have represented Jharkhand at national-level tournaments, 72 have competed at the state level, and six athletes have progressed to higher Centres of Excellence within the state. Several others have participated in tournaments outside the district, gaining competitive exposure.
The initiative is being implemented under the leadership of Deputy Commissioner Lokesh Mishra (IAS), who states, “Project Utkarsh is not just a platform for talent development; it’s a powerful step towards change, opportunity, and future-building for Khunti’s talented generation.” He also appreciated that Roots Foundation trained the players in the right direction, keeping in mind the guidelines of various sports, which ensured that the children faced no difficulty in representing Khunti district.
Anisha Kumari, a 15-year-old student from Ganaloya village in Khunti, is a shining example of this transformation. She is now competing at the state level in hockey and shared, “This project has been life-changing for me. I’m watching my dreams come true here.”
Utkarsh reflects the potential of collaborative models in rural India, where administrative commitment and on-ground execution come together to build long-term impact. It is a true inspiration—one that should be replicated across states and by the central government. It underlines the role of structured opportunities in enabling children from tribal communities to access professional sports and quality education simultaneously.
Utkarsh CoES follows a culturally rooted approach, integrating local traditions at its core, ensuring a deeper connection with the student-athletes. This initiative has become a prime example of promoting sports culture in Khunti, bringing rural talent to the forefront, and helping athletes excel in their respective sports. It is a model that should be adopted across districts and nationally.
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