Gulmarg, Feb 23: The sixth edition of the Khelo India Winter Games kicked off at the world-famous ski resort here on Monday, with over 400 athletes from 30 states and union territories participating in the four-day mega sporting event.
The snow events are being held in Gulmarg, which is hosting four medal disciplines – ski mountaineering, alpine skiing, Nordic skiing (cross-country), and snowboarding. Official data revealed that alpine skiing has recorded the highest number of registrations.
Speaking to Kashmir Convener, Nuzhat Gul, Secretary of the J&K Sports Council, expressed confidence in the smooth conduct of the Games, citing favourable weather conditions. “Four hundred participants from 30 states and union territories have registered for the Games. God willing, the event is going to be a great success, as Gulmarg has good snow cover this time,” she said.
The first leg of the Khelo India Winter Games was held in Leh town in Ladakh from January 20 to 26. Notably, all six editions of the Games since their inception have been hosted exclusively in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.
The mascot for this year’s edition is the snow leopard, symbolising the spirit of Indian winter sports as resilient, agile, and adaptable, carrying the legacy of the Himalayas to the national stage.
Elaborate arrangements have been made for the event, with senior officers from the civil administration and security agencies deployed to ensure the smooth functioning of the event and the protection of athletes and participants.
A senior police officer told Kashmir Convener that comprehensive security measures have been implemented. “All arrangements have been made properly for the safe, secure, and peaceful conduct of the 6th Khelo India Winter Games. Personnel from J&K Police, CRPF, and other security agencies are on their toes and are closely monitoring the ground situation for the safety of the artists and participants,” the officer said.
Meanwhile, athletes participating in the mega sports event in Gulmarg expressed their excitement, stating that the atmosphere is vibrant and that Kashmir is truly a perfect winter sports venue in the country.
Anjana, an athlete from Pune, told Kashmir Convener, “It’s so great to be part of the 6th Khelo India Winter Games in Gulmarg. I had been waiting for the past two years, and finally, this year, the dream has come true. Participating among 600 athletes is an achievement for me, and moreover, it’s a proud moment for my family.”
Vinay, an athlete from Bengaluru, Karnataka, told Kashmir Convener, “For me, it’s been an amazing time. More than sports, this place is a paradise. The feeling is beyond expectations.” Vinay added, “Kashmir is truly the best adventure destination. I have been here for two days, and believe me, it’s been incredible. It’s the best time of my life; adventure and skiing in the snow is life’s most beautiful journey so far.”
Vikram, a snowboarder from Auli, Uttarakhand, said, “The atmosphere here is phenomenal. Every athlete is pushing their limits, inspired by the sheer beauty of this place. Gulmarg isn’t just a venue; it’s the perfect stage for our passion. Participating in the Khelo India Winter Games here is a massive honour and a memory I will cherish forever.”
Priya, an athlete from Chennai, Tamil Nadu, who is experiencing snow for the first time, told Kashmir Convener, “This is straight out of a dream! Just six months ago, I was running on the hot sands of Chennai, and now I’m skiing in the snows of Gulmarg. Khelo India has given me this incredible opportunity. The landscape is breathtaking, and the people here are so warm. It’s more than a competition; it’s a life-changing experience.”
Kashmir Convener also spoke with many other athletes who termed the Khelo India Winter Games in Kashmir an opportunity to showcase their talents, stating that participating in such an event is itself an achievement.
Comments are closed.