The scenic winter resort of Gulmarg in Jammu and Kashmir is set to host the sixth Khelo India Winter Games (KIWG) from Monday, with over 400 athletes participating in the four-day event. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha will flag off the games at the famous ski destination in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district.
Officials said all arrangements have been completed for the snow-leg of the games, following the ice-event leg held in Leh, Ladakh, from January 20 to 26 this year. “Participants from 30 states and UTs have registered, and 400 athletes are set to compete. The snow cover is good, and we hope weather conditions
remain favourable,” said Nuzhat Gul, Secretary of the J-K Sports Council.
Gulmarg will feature four medal disciplines – Ski Mountaineering, Alpine Skiing, Nordic Skiing (Cross-Country), and Snowboarding – with Alpine Skiing attracting the highest number of participants. All six editions of the KIWG have been hosted across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.
The Ladakh leg of KIWG 2026 concluded with Haryana leading the medal tally, winning four golds in figure and ice skating, followed by Ladakh, Maharashtra, and Telangana.
Also read: Norway dominates third consecutive Winter Olympics
Security and logistical arrangements have been closely reviewed. Kashmir police chief V K Birdi chaired a high-level security meeting on Wednesday, attended by senior officers of the police, Army, Central Armed Police Forces, intelligence agencies, and civil administration.
Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Minga Sherpa, conducted a comprehensive inspection of competition and accommodation sites, including the Gulmarg Golf Club, to ensure readiness for the event. Officials confirmed that all necessary facilities, including athlete accommodations, competition venues, and emergency services, have been finalised for smooth conduct.
The Khelo India Winter Games aim to promote winter sports at the grassroots level and provide young athletes exposure to national-level competitions. The Gulmarg leg is expected to showcase emerging talent in skiing and snowboarding while fostering sporting culture in the region.
With four days of intense competition ahead, the focus will be on performance, safety, and creating an environment for young athletes to thrive in winter sports.
Follow us
