Synopsis
On March 12, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed his happiness regarding the successful conclusion of the 5th 'Khelo India Winter Games 2025' in Gulmarg, J&K. The event faced challenges due to low snowfall but ultimately showcased the determination of athletes and highlighted plans for future sports infrastructure development.Key Takeaways
- Omar Abdullah celebrated the successful completion of KIWG 2025.
- Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya was present at the event.
- Gulmarg's status as the Winter Sports Capital of India was reiterated.
- Future plans include infrastructure upgrades to attract more tourists.
- Commitment to developing sports facilities in every village was emphasized.
Gulmarg, March 12 (NationPress) - Chief Minister of J&K, Omar Abdullah, expressed his joy on Wednesday at the successful conclusion of the 5th 'Khelo India Winter Games 2025' held at the renowned Gulmarg ski resort.
Speaking at the event, Abdullah shared his happiness over the successful execution of the 5th Edition of Khelo India Winter Games (KIWG) in Gulmarg. The occasion was graced by Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, who served as the chief guest at the closing ceremony.
“I am thrilled to announce that the 5th Khelo India Winter Games took place without a hitch,” he stated at the beginning of his speech while addressing a sizable audience of athletes, officials, and dignitaries.
Reflecting on the hurdles leading up to the games, the Chief Minister mentioned that the lack of snow during January and February raised concerns about whether the event would proceed this year.
“For the past four years, KIWG have been organized with immense enthusiasm. However, this year, we encountered an extraordinary challenge due to minimal snow accumulation,” he noted.
He revealed that a comprehensive evaluation of the snow conditions was performed by technical experts, resulting in extensive discussions about whether to hold, delay, or cancel the games.
Ultimately, he opted to postpone the event, hoping for snow.
“Then, with divine grace, we received sufficient snowfall, and the 5th Edition of KIWG was officially declared,” he remarked.
As a passionate skier, Abdullah shared a personal experience, stating that he attempted to ski earlier on Wednesday but found the snow challenging due to its high water content.
“If I struggled, I can only imagine the difficulties faced by the athletes,” he commented, appreciating their determination and tenacity in overcoming tough conditions to deliver outstanding performances.
Reiterating Gulmarg’s reputation as the Winter Sports Capital of India, Abdullah emphasized that the promotion and enhancement of skiing in the country began in Gulmarg.
He then discussed the development of Gulmarg’s sports infrastructure, mentioning improvements like chairlifts and the Gondola Phase 2 project.
“The original infrastructure at Gulmarg dates back to the British era, yet what we have now is still insufficient to meet the rising demand for winter sports and tourism,” he explained.
Chief Minister Abdullah highlighted the necessity to upgrade Gulmarg’s sports facilities, citing examples of Central Asian nations like Uzbekistan, which have established world-class skiing infrastructure that attracts international skiers, including those who previously visited Gulmarg.
“To position ourselves as a premier global winter sports destination, we must invest in enhancing our infrastructure,” he asserted.
Discussing the recent inauguration of the Sonamarg Tunnel by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Abdullah referred to it as a transformative development for tourism and sports in the area.
“Sonamarg is now emerging as another splendid tourism and sports location. We also intend to develop skiing facilities there,” he announced.
Looking toward the future, the Chief Minister envisioned utilizing eco-friendly artificial snow technology to ensure that Khelo India Winter Games can take place as early as December and January, thereby extending the winter sports season.
Referring to the assurance provided by Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya to J&K Sports Minister Satish Sharma, Abdullah expressed gratitude for any support the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports could offer.
He also stressed that sports infrastructure should not be limited to popular games like cricket and football, which require expansive grounds.
“Emerging sports like Pickleball are gaining traction among youth and require less space. We must broaden our sports infrastructure,” he proposed.
He outlined his government’s dedication to developing sports infrastructure in every village, ensuring that young people have opportunities to participate in sports.
“Our youth are being diverted toward unproductive paths. We want them to engage actively in sports and make Jammu and Kashmir a sports hub -- whether for traditional sports, adventure sports, or winter sports,” he declared.
He further revealed that during the presentation of the J&K Budget in the Assembly, he allocated significant funds for sports development.
“In the next four and a half years, our government aims to effect transformative changes in the sports sector,” he affirmed.
In closing, Abdullah extended an invitation to Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, encouraging him and his family to visit Gulmarg and other tourist attractions in J&K.
He also expressed gratitude to the athletes for their participation, recognizing their dedication and commitment despite the short notice for the commencement of the 5th Khelo India Winter Games.
Minister for Youth Services and Sports, Satish Sharma, emphasized that hosting the Khelo India Winter Games in Gulmarg aligns with PM Modi’s vision.
“There is a need for enhancing infrastructure to provide a seamless experience for athletes and officials. Such events contribute to local livelihoods,” he stated.
Gulmarg MLA Farooq Ahmad Shah underscored the economic benefits of improving skiing infrastructure.
“Kashmir has the potential to be the Switzerland of Asia. Gulmarg can attract millions of tourists. However, this resort requires at least 10 chairlifts for skiers. If we upgrade the skiing infrastructure in Gulmarg and Kongdoori, we can draw huge numbers of skiers, and our nation can earn substantial foreign exchange,” he remarked.
Attendees at the concluding ceremony included Nasir Aslam Wani, Advisor to the Chief Minister; Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Sarmad Hafiz, Commissioner of Youth Services and Sports; Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir; Minga Sherpa, Deputy Commissioner, Baramulla; and Nuzhat Gul, Secretary, J&K Sports Council.
