Gulmarg’s snow-laden slopes are set to come alive as the sixth edition of the Khelo India Winter Games kicks off on Monday. This four-day extravaganza in the picturesque ski resort of Jammu and Kashmir promises thrilling action across multiple winter disciplines.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha will flag off the event, marking a significant moment for winter sports in India. Over 400 athletes from 30 states and Union Territories have registered, eager to compete amid ideal snow conditions.
Nuzhat Gul, Secretary of the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council, expressed optimism to reporters. ‘With excellent snow coverage this year, we’re expecting a resounding success,’ she said. The games run from February 23 to 26, following the first leg in Leh, Ladakh earlier this month.
This is the second leg hosted in Gulmarg, with all six editions of the Games held in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Competitors will vie for medals in ski mountaineering, alpine skiing, Nordic skiing, and snowboarding. Alpine skiing has seen the highest registrations, underscoring its popularity.
In the Leh leg, Haryana dominated the medals tally with four gold medals from its ice skaters, followed by Ladakh, Maharashtra, and Telangana. The mascot, ‘Sheen-e-Shah (Shaan)’ – a snow leopard – embodies the resilience and adaptability of Indian winter athletes.
Special arrangements, including high-level government oversight, ensure smooth operations. These Games not only spotlight Himalayan sporting heritage but also nurture future talents on the national stage, fostering a vibrant winter sports culture across India.