Gujarat Launches Sports Genomics Programme to Find Athletic Talent

GANDHINAGAR: Gujarat is turning to DNA science in its search for sporting champions. Ahead of National Sports Day on August 29, the state has launched a Sports Genomics Programme to study the genetic, physical and performance traits of athletes and make talent identification more scientific.

The programme is being implemented by the Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC) under the Department of Science and Technology. Science and Technology Minister Arjun Modhwadia said Gujarat has become the first state in India to launch such a programme.

“The aim is to develop a more scientific and evidence-based approach to sports talent by integrating genomics with sports science, physiology and nutritional science,” Modhwadia said.

GBRC has already begun collecting athlete samples. The first phase covers tennis players associated with the Gujarat State Tennis Association. The next phase will include athletes in archery, fencing, judo and shooting. The state plans to collect and analyse 2,000 samples this year, with a long-term target of 10,000 samples over five years.

The initiative gains significance as Gujarat prepares to host the Commonwealth Games in 2030. Officials believe scientific athlete profiling could support the identification and development of high-performing athletes.

Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology P. Bharti said the programme would add biological and genetic information to traditional talent assessment.

“Traditionally, sports talent is identified through physical parameters, coaching evaluation and trial performance. Our model seeks to add genetic and biological information to create a more comprehensive athlete profile,” Bharti said.

The programme will examine areas such as endurance, muscle characteristics, metabolism, recovery, injury risk, nutrigenomics, lifestyle and response to exercise. It will cover sports ranging from athletics, swimming and wrestling to football, hockey, badminton, shooting, archery and chess.

Mission Director of Gujarat State Biotechnology Mission Digvijaysinh Jadeja said whole-genome sequencing would be a key component.

A major outcome will be the Gujarat Athlete Genome Database (G-AGD), combining genetic, physical and sports-performance information for long-term research and athlete development.

Officials stressed that genes alone cannot determine sporting success. Training, coaching, nutrition, infrastructure and social support remain critical.

The programme will also focus on personalised training and nutrition strategies. Since genetic information is highly sensitive, officials said privacy safeguards, informed consent, secure storage and controlled access will be essential.

With its biotechnology infrastructure and growing sports ambitions, Gujarat hopes the initiative will eventually help establish the state as a sports biotechnology innovation hub.