GULMARG, FEBRUARY 26: Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr Mansukh Mandaviya on Wednesday announced that future editions of the Khelo India Winter Games (KIWG) in Gulmarg will be expanded into a 15-day integrated festival, combining sports with tourism and cultural activities.
Addressing the closing ceremony of the second leg of the 6th Khelo India Winter Games at Gulmarg, the Minister said the government is committed to transforming Jammu and Kashmir into a premier global winter sports destination.
“The land of Kashmir has immense potential. Gulmarg will become the global hub for winter sports in the coming years,” he said.
Sports, tourism and culture integration
Dr Mandaviya said the Winter Games would go beyond competitions and include a Fit India Carnival, cultural programmes and multiple sporting events to create a vibrant festival atmosphere.
“The Games will no longer remain limited to four days. By integrating tourism and culture, we will organise a 15-day-long event to showcase the region’s potential,” he said.
He added that sports have the power to unite society, promote harmony and drive development, noting the growing sporting spirit among youth in Jammu and Kashmir.
National Centre of Excellence
In a major announcement, the Minister said a National Centre of Excellence (NCoE) for winter sports will be established in Jammu and Kashmir to strengthen infrastructure, training and talent development.
He said the region’s natural potential must be fully explored to position Gulmarg as a world-class tourism and winter sports destination.
Champions felicitated
Dr Mandaviya presented the champions trophy to the Indian Army team, which successfully defended its title with 23 medals, including nine gold, six silver and eight bronze.
Himachal Pradesh finished runners-up with 14 medals, while Haryana secured third place.
Sports-led transformation
The Minister said initiatives such as Khelo Bharat Niti are transforming Indian sports with an athlete-centric approach. He congratulated the Jammu and Kashmir administration, security forces and all stakeholders for successfully organising the Games.
More than 900 athletes from 25 states and Union Territories participated in six disciplines across Gulmarg and Leh during the Winter Games.
Dr Mandaviya said sports are playing a vital role in shaping a new narrative of progress and opportunity in Jammu and Kashmir.
