Once potential athletes are identified, the information could be used to guide them towards sports that may suit their physical characteristics and abilities
Published: August 30, 2026, 10:56 AM IST
Share Article
https://www.india.com/sports/how-gujarats-dna-initiative-could-change-the-way-india-identifies-sporting-talent-all-you-should-know-8512812/
Representational image(Credits: IANS)
India celebrated its National Sports Day yesterday on Saturday, August 29 and there is already some good news on the occasionThe nation, which is set to host the next Commonwealth Games edition in 2030, is taking a new approach towards identifying sporting talent.
The proposed host state of Gujarat is eager to do something unique in order to make it happenThe state is turning to DNA sequencing to find athletes who could have the potential to excel in all different kinds of sportsThe initiative is being seen as a step towards using genetics along with traditional methods of talent identification.
The idea is to understand an athlete’s genetic profile and use that information to identify areas where the person could have a natural advantageInstead of relying only on physical tests, performances and coaching assessments, genetic information could provide another layer while identifying and developing young athletes.
The programme is aimed at finding sporting talent at an early ageOnce potential athletes are identified, the information could be used to guide them towards sports that may suit their physical characteristics and abilitiesThe broader goal is to create a stronger system for developing athletes and improve India’s chances of producing champions across different disciplines.
Genetics can play a role in several physical traits that matter in sportFactors linked to muscle composition, endurance, recovery and how the body responds to training can vary from person to person.
However, DNA alone cannot make someone a championTraining, nutrition, coaching, discipline and access to facilities remain important parts of an athlete’s development.
That is where the Gujarat initiative could be significantRather than using genetic information as the only method of selection, it can potentially be combined with existing talent identification programmesYoung athletes could then receive more specialised training based on their individual requirements.
The move also comes at a time when India is trying to build a stronger sporting systemThe country has improved its performances at major international events in recent years, with athletes from shooting, athletics, boxing, wrestling, badminton, weightlifting and other sports winning medals at the highest level.
India has a large population but many promising athletes are identified late or do not get access to the right training and facilitiesA more scientific approach to talent identification could help widen the search and bring more young athletes into organised sport.
One of the biggest problems for young athletes in India, however, remains access to proper sporting facilitiesAcross several cities, playgrounds and open spaces are being taken over for construction and other purposes.
With fewer grounds available, children are losing places where they can play, train and develop an interest in sportFinding talent through DNA sequencing can help identify potential but that talent will need proper grounds, coaches and training facilities to turn into performance.
