Gulmarg, Feb 23: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday said the Khelo India Winter Games has evolved into a “national festival of unity” as he inaugurated its sixth edition at the ski resort of Gulmarg.
Addressing over 1,000 athletes at the opening ceremony, Sinha urged them to view the sporting arena as a platform for national integration and look beyond regional identities.
“As you race on these ski slopes, remember diversity is our strength, not division. Our languages may differ, but our goals and values unite us,” he said.
The lieutenant governor said the three-day event was more than a competition and had become a movement fostering camaraderie alongside rivalry.
“Healthy competition and mutual respect coexist. Intense rivalry also builds shared conversations and lasting friendships. Our people need this ethos now more than ever,” he said.
Drawing a parallel between sports and life, Sinha said the challenging slopes of Gulmarg symbolised resilience.
“Winter Games at Gulmarg mirror life’s challenges, building resilience that propels future triumphs. Falling, analysing errors and rising improved are the true lessons of sports,” he added.
On the sidelines of the event, Sinha reviewed the sporting infrastructure in Gulmarg and said the Prime Minister’s Development Package and the establishment of 100 Khelo India Centres had strengthened the sports ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir by combining modern facilities with grassroots talent.
He said sports reflect the identity of Jammu and Kashmir and promote the spirit of national unity.
Referring to the recently concluded ‘Winter Wanchit Festival’, he said the transition to the Khelo India Games demonstrated the region’s growing prominence in winter sports.
“This is not merely an event but a reflection of Jammu and Kashmir’s identity in sports and the creative power of sports for our youth,” he said.
Sinha said the success of the Games would not be measured only by medals but by the spirit of unity and pursuit of excellence.
The lieutenant governor extended his wishes to the participants and said the Khelo India initiative was gradually transforming into a national festival with support from citizens across the country.
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