AI SummaryTrekking in Forest Area (Scheduled Tribes) is a Gujarat government scheme that gives young people from the scheduled tribes community a chance to join organized forest trekking programs across the state. Sports, Youth and Cultural Activities Department of the Government of Gujarat selects 100 young men and women from the ST community every year and takes them on guided treks through forests, hills, springs and ravines.
The scheme remains open for the 2026-27 cycle and eligible youth can apply offline by submitting the prescribed form to the District Youth Development Officer office. Application is free and no educational qualification is required.
Trekking in Forest Area (Scheduled Tribes) - Overview
Trekking in Forest Area (Scheduled Tribes) is made for ST youth living in Gujarat. Main aim is simple: let young people see wild animals, birds, trees, mountains and natural springs with their own eyes, so they learn to value and protect the environment.
Under this scheme, a forest area rotation program is conducted for 100 selected young men and women. Participants get a hands on experience in forest settings, which helps them understand nature and wildlife better than any classroom lesson.
Benefit is purely in kind. There is no cash payment and no DBT amount. What the participant gets is a well organized, government sponsored trekking trip in designated forest areas of Gujarat with proper guidance and supervision.
Key Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Trekking in Forest Area (Scheduled Tribes) |
| Level | State |
| Scheme For | Individual |
| States | Gujarat |
| Category | Sports & Culture |
| Benefit Type | In Kind |
| DBT Scheme | No |
| Nodal Department | Sports, Youth and Cultural Activities Department |
| Participants per Batch | 100 |
Benefits
Selected applicants get the following advantages through this scheme:
- Nature immersion: Guided forest trekking program gives eligible people a direct experience of forest settings, which builds love for nature and environmental awareness.
- Biodiversity exposure: Participants get firsthand access to pristine natural sites including forests, wildlife, birds, trees, springs, mountains and ravines.
Eligibility
To apply for Trekking in Forest Area (Scheduled Tribes), an applicant must meet these conditions:
- Resident of Gujarat: Applicant must be a permanent resident of Gujarat, as this is a state level scheme.
- Scheduled Tribes category: Only youth belonging to the ST category can apply. This scheme is not open to other castes or general category.
- Age group 15 to 35 years: Applicant should be within 15 to 35 years of age. Both young men and women can apply equally.
Application Process
Application is done offline through the District Youth Development Officer office. Follow these steps to apply:
STEP 1 - Download the prescribed application form from the official Gujarat government portal mariyojana.gujarat.gov.in.
STEP 2 - Fill in all mandatory details clearly and attach copies of required documents. Aadhaar card copy should be self attested if needed.
STEP 3 - Submit the duly filled and signed application form along with supporting documents to the office of the District Youth Development Officer of the district.
STEP 4 - Collect a receipt or acknowledgement from the concerned authority as proof of submission.
Documents
Only one document is required for this scheme:
- Aadhaar Card: A valid Aadhaar card copy of the applicant.
References
For more details and the official scheme rules, check the Gujarat government portal: Guidelines (Scheme No. 2).
FAQ's
What is the main purpose of Trekking in Forest Area (Scheduled Tribes)?
The main purpose is to give ST youth of Gujarat direct exposure to forest ecosystems through guided treks, so they develop a lasting appreciation for nature, wildlife and biodiversity.
Which department manages this scheme?
Sports, Youth and Cultural Activities Department of the Government of Gujarat manages all aspects of this trekking program.
Who is eligible for this scheme?
Applicant must be a resident of Gujarat, belong to the Scheduled Tribes (ST) category, and be between 15 and 35 years of age.
Can people from other states apply?
No, this scheme is limited to ST youth residing in Gujarat only.
What kind of benefit is offered?
Selected participants get an organized, guided trekking experience in designated forest areas of Gujarat with exposure to local wildlife and natural beauty.
Is there any cash benefit?
No, this is a non-monetary scheme. Benefit is provided in kind through a government sponsored trekking trip.
How many people are selected?
Each batch or cycle of the trekking program selects 100 young men and women.
Is there an application fee?
No, the application process is completely free.
What documents are needed?
Completed application form and a copy of Aadhaar Card.
Where can the application form be found?
Form can be downloaded from the official scheme guidelines link on the Gujarat government portal mariyojana.gujarat.gov.in.
Is this scheme for both men and women?
Yes, both young men and women from the ST category can participate equally.
Are there any educational requirements?
No, there are no specific educational or professional qualifications required to apply.