AI SummaryTrekking in Forest Area (Scheduled Castes) is a scheme of the Government of Gujarat that takes selected young men and women from the Scheduled Caste community on guided forest trekking programs. It comes under the Sports, Youth and Cultural Activities Department and gives youth a close look at forests, wild animals, birds, mountains, springs, and other natural spots in the state.
This scheme mainly helps young people build a love for nature and a sense of care for the environment. Selected participants get a free, organized trekking experience, and there is no application fee or cash benefit involved. The scheme is part of the Gujarat Mari Yojana portal, and as of August 2026, applications are accepted through the offline process described below.
Trekking in Forest Area (Scheduled Castes) - Introduction
Under this scheme, the department organizes a forest area rotation program for a batch of 100 selected young men and women. Participants spend time in forests and get to see wild animals, birds, trees, springs, and ravines in their natural setting, which helps them understand wildlife and biodiversity better.
This scheme is open only to residents of Gujarat who belong to the Scheduled Caste category. Applicants should fall in the age group of 14 to 35 years, and there are no academic or professional qualifications needed to apply.
| Key | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Trekking in Forest Area (Scheduled Castes) |
| Level | State |
| Scheme For | Individual |
| Beneficiary States | Gujarat |
| Category | Sports and Culture |
| Benefit Type | Service / Experience |
| DBT Scheme | No |
| Nodal Department | Sports, Youth and Cultural Activities Department, Government of Gujarat |
| Official Website | Gujarat Mari Yojana Portal (mariyojana.gujarat.gov.in) |
Benefits
Selected candidates get a full nature experience arranged by the department. The trek helps young people connect with the outdoors and learn about the environment in a safe, guided setting.
- Nature trip: Participants get a guided forest trekking program organized by the department, so they can enjoy forests and open spaces safely.
- Biodiversity exposure: The trek gives a close view of wild animals, birds, trees, springs, mountains, and ravines, which builds awareness about wildlife and the environment.
Eligibility
The eligibility criteria for this trekking program are simple and clear. Check the points below before applying:
- Resident of Gujarat: The applicant must live in Gujarat and should be ready to show proof of residence when asked.
- Scheduled Caste category: The applicant must belong to the Scheduled Caste (SC) community.
- Age limit: The applicant should be between 14 and 35 years of age.
Documents Required
Only one main document is needed for the application, apart from the filled form:
- Aadhaar Card: A self-attested copy of the Aadhaar Card should be attached with the application form.
Application Process
The application process for Trekking in Forest Area (Scheduled Castes) is fully offline. Follow these steps:
STEP 1 - Download the prescribed application form from the guidelines section of the Gujarat Mari Yojana portal under Scheme No. 663.
STEP 2 - Fill in all the required details carefully and attach self-attested copies of the required documents, mainly the Aadhaar Card.
STEP 3 - Submit the completed and signed application form along with the supporting documents to the office of the District Youth Development Officer in your area.
STEP 4 - Collect the acknowledgement receipt from the office so that you can track the status of your application later.
References
Official guidelines and forms for the scheme are available on the Gujarat Mari Yojana portal. Government Guidelines and Forms (Scheme No. 663)
For details on how to search and apply for Gujarat government schemes, check the Gujarat Mari Yojana Portal guide.
FAQ's
What is the main aim of Trekking in Forest Area (Scheduled Castes)?
The scheme provides young people from the Scheduled Caste community with direct exposure to forest ecosystems, so they develop a lasting appreciation for wildlife, biodiversity, and natural landscapes.
Which department manages this scheme?
The Sports, Youth and Cultural Activities Department of the Government of Gujarat manages and implements the program.
Who can apply for this trekking program?
Residents of Gujarat who belong to the Scheduled Caste category and are between 14 and 35 years of age can apply.
Are people from other states eligible?
No, this scheme is only for residents of Gujarat belonging to the Scheduled Caste community.
What benefit do selected participants get?
Selected participants get a guided, organized trekking experience in designated forest areas to learn about nature and biodiversity.
Does the government give any money under this scheme?
No, there is no direct cash benefit. The benefit is the organized forest trekking experience itself.
How many participants are selected in one batch?
A batch of 100 selected young men and women is taken for the forest rotation program.
Is there any application fee?
No, there is no fee to apply for this scheme.
Where can I get the application form?
The application form can be downloaded from the guidelines section of the official Gujarat Mari Yojana portal.
Can women apply?
Yes, the scheme welcomes both young men and women from the Scheduled Caste community equally.
Do I need any qualification to apply?
No, there are no specific academic or professional qualifications required to apply.