India, Feb 23 : The sixth edition of the Khelo India Winter Games commenced on Sunday at Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir, featuring around 400 athletes from across India. The four day event, running from February 23 to 26, will be inaugurated by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha.
Gulmarg Prepares for Snow Sports Competitions
Gulmarg is set to host competitions in alpine skiing, Nordic skiing (cross-country), ski mountaineering, and snowboarding, with alpine skiing attracting the highest number of participants. Officials highlighted favorable snow conditions this season, ensuring smooth conduct of all events. Nuzhat Gul, Secretary of the J&K Sports Council, expressed confidence in the preparations and athlete safety.
Leh Hosted the First Phase
Earlier this year, the first phase of the Winter Games took place in Leh, Ladakh, from January 20 to 26, covering ice sports like figure skating and ice skating. Haryana topped the medal tally in Leh with four golds, followed by Ladakh, Maharashtra, and Telangana. Gulmarg now hosts the snow events, continuing the tradition of Winter Games in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.
‘Shan’ the Snow Leopard Symbolizes Himalayan Sports Spirit
The Games’ mascot, the snow leopard ‘Sheen-E-She (Shan)’, represents endurance and adaptability in harsh mountain conditions, reflecting the spirit of winter sports in the Himalayan region.
Security and Administration
Tight security and administrative arrangements have been implemented to manage logistics and crowds. Gulmarg is also preparing for the visit of Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan on February 26, who will attend the convocation ceremony of Kashmir University as chief guest.