The Khelo India Winter Games (KIWG) 2025 were launched with great fanfare on January 23 at the iconic NDS Stadium in Leh, Ladakh, marking a significant milestone in the development of winter sports in India.
These games, which will run until January 27, are the first major sports event of the national calendar and are being hosted by the Union Territory of Ladakh, while Jammu and Kashmir will host the snow games from February 22 to 25.
The event promises to elevate the spirit of sporting excellence across the country and is set to inspire future athletes.
The opening ceremony, held at the 5,000-capacity NDS stadium, displayed the region’s enthusiasm for winter sports, despite freezing temperatures. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his message, congratulated both Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir for hosting this prestigious event.
He commended these regions for not only fostering a vibrant sporting culture but also contributing to the promotion of tourism by showcasing the country's natural beauty and diverse landscapes. The event underscored India’s growing reputation as a hub for winter sports and adventure activities.
The Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, had been scheduled to inaugurate the games. However, due to adverse weather conditions, he was unable to attend in person. Despite this, Dr. Mandaviya sent a heartwarming message, officially declaring the games open.
The ceremony included a cultural display and an exhibition ice-hockey match, with teams marching past the VIP podium on their skates, adding to the festive atmosphere. The Lt. Governor of Ladakh, Brigadier Dr. BD Mishra, was also present at the ceremony to witness the historic occasion.
In his address, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the government’s commitment to sports development in regions like Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir.
He pointed out that the government had established 100 Khelo India Centres in Jammu & Kashmir and three in Ladakh, which will help nurture young sporting talent.
These efforts, he added, are transforming these areas into thriving hubs for sporting excellence. The Khelo India Winter Games, he said, would play a pivotal role in elevating India’s performance on the global stage, especially in winter sports.
Dr. Mandaviya, in his speech, referred to India as a “4D sports nation,” emphasising the country’s diverse sporting landscape. From the snowy terrains of Leh, which are perfect for winter games, to the potential of beach sports in the south and adventure sports in the northeast, India is embracing its vast sporting diversity.
He further expressed excitement over the future possibilities for sports development, including exploring the west coast for water sports and other popular games. He envisioned a unified and diverse India where sports flourish in every corner, providing ample opportunities for athletes to excel.
Reflecting on India’s successful performance in international sports in 2024, including achievements in chess, cricket, and the Olympics and Paralympics in Paris, Dr. Mandaviya expressed optimism for the future.
He noted that the Khelo India Winter Games were part of a broader vision to position India as a formidable competitor in global sporting events like the Winter Olympics.
He spoke about the dream of seeing Indian athletes stand atop the Winter Olympics podium, with the national anthem playing as they received their medals.
The Khelo India Winter Games, he stressed, are the stepping stones for building future winter sports champions who will make India proud on the world stage.
The KIWG 2025 kicked off with ice hockey matches held at the NDS complex and the Ladakh Scouts Regimental Centre, marking the start of an exciting sporting event.
Nineteen teams, including those from states, Union Territories, and institutions such as the Army and ITBP, are participating in this edition of the Winter Games.
A total of 594 participants, including 428 athletes, are involved in the Ladakh leg of the competition. This is the second time Ladakh is hosting the Winter Games, and the region is becoming increasingly recognised for its contribution to winter sports.
In addition to providing a platform for young athletes to showcase their skills, the Khelo India Winter Games also celebrate the culture, heritage, and art of the regions they are hosted in.
The games are not only a sporting event but also an opportunity to promote tourism and showcase the natural beauty of Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir.
The winter games have helped bring attention to the potential of these regions, further cementing their status as prime locations for winter sports and adventure tourism.
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