Wadi, a region in Gujarat’s Surat known for its high tribal population, is gaining attention as local youths aspire to join the Armed Forces. Sainik schools in the area are actively supporting these ambitions by providing training and guidance. Under the Gujarat government’s tribal department, a special initiative is underway to train and mentor tribal youth for military service, focusing on sports, discipline, and physical education.
The Sainik School, operated by the Gujarat State Tribal Education Society, is playing a key role in nurturing these aspirations. Students from Scheduled Tribes, ranging from grades 6 to 12, are benefiting from this program. The school’s rigorous routine, including parade sessions and physical training drills, is instilling a sense of discipline and determination among the students, motivating them to pursue careers as Army officers and excel in sports.
With 372 tribal students currently enrolled, the Sainik School offers not just education but also free boarding and lodging facilities. Each student receives an annual grant of ₹80,000 from the State Government. The school campus, spread over 20 acres, boasts modern amenities, smart classrooms, a sports complex, a library, and well-equipped laboratories for various subjects. Jaideep Singh Rathore, the school’s Principal, highlighted the government’s investment in the campus to provide a conducive environment for holistic student development.
In addition to academic support, the school organizes activities to enhance the physical and mental well-being of its students. Retired Army officers are actively involved in providing specialized training to prepare the students for military service. Sham Singh Vasava, a retired Subedar, emphasized the importance of physical training in equipping tribal children with the skills needed to pursue careers in the Armed Forces.
