Launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his tenure as Chief Minister, the District Level Sports School (DLSS) scheme aims to foster discipline, sportsmanship, and teamwork among young athletes in Gujarat. The initiative underscores the belief that sports contribute significantly to the holistic development of individuals. An official release from the Gujarat Chief Minister’s Office states that the scheme currently operates 39 District Level Sports Schools throughout the state.

Benefits and Structure

Since its inception in 2013-14, the DLSS scheme has provided free education and professional sports training to over 12,000 players. Operated by the Sports Authority of Gujarat under the Sports, Youth, and Cultural Activities Department, the initiative focuses on two primary categories in its talent identification process: Young Talent and Proven Talent. Successful candidates benefit from a comprehensive package that includes free schooling, textbooks, accommodation, meals, uniforms, sports kits, intensive training, and stipends.

Training Approach

Participants receive training guided by a scientific approach, emphasizing fitness, technique, dietary support, and injury prevention. This structured methodology serves to prepare athletes for success in both national and international competitions. Over the past two years, players from the DLSS have accumulated a remarkable 3,444 medals at the state level and 335 at the national level, with four individuals also representing India on the international stage, garnering a bronze medal.

Notable Alumni

Among the distinguished former athletes of the DLSS is Elavenil Valarivan, a shooting competitor and Arjuna Awardee who trains for Gujarat. Elavenil’s journey began at the Laxman Gyanpith School in Sanand, Ahmedabad, where she honed her skills from 2014 to 2017. Reflecting on her time at the DLSS, she noted the impact of advanced facilities, coaching, and equipment. Her accolades include a gold medal at the 2025 Asian Championship, a bronze medal at the 2025 World Championship, and successful participation at global events such as the Tokyo Olympics 2020 and the upcoming Paris Olympics 2024.

Success Stories

Another notable alumni, Opinaben Devjibhai Bhilar from Biliamba village in Dang district, has notably excelled in Kho Kho. She has won prestigious titles, including a gold medal at the 2025 Kho Kho World Cup in India and a gold medal at the 56th Senior National Kho Kho Championship in Delhi. Opinaben credits the DLSS scheme for significantly progressing her career. After being introduced to the programme in 2014, she experienced rigorous training and eventually secured a position at the Athletics Academy in Vadodara.

Contribution to Sports Community

Today, Opinaben is not only a successful athlete but also serves as a coach in Panchmahal district, where she trains budding Kho Kho players. She attributes her achievements to the support of initiatives like the DLSS, which provide young talents with the necessary guidance and opportunities to excel in sports.

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