Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Lt. Governor (L-G) Manoj Sinha inaugurated the fourth edition of the ‘Khelo India’ snow sports event at the picturesque Gulmarg Ski Resort on Wednesday.
Addressing the gathering at the inauguration, the Lt. Governor emphasized the significance of the event for over 600 athletes who have been diligently preparing for this spectacular showcase of winter sports.
Over the next four days, the Khelo India Winter Games will celebrate the hard work, skills, dedication, and sporting excellence on the ski slopes of Gulmarg.
L-G Sinha expressed confidence that this winter sports extravaganza would foster a sense of brotherhood, peace, and harmony among all participating teams. He invited athletes, team officials, and sports enthusiasts to enjoy the warm hospitality of Jammu and Kashmir, along with the thrill of Alpine Ski, Nordic Ski, and snow mountaineering competitions, as well as the incredible sights and cuisine of the paradise on earth.
Highlighting the government’s efforts to promote a robust sports culture across cities and villages in the Union Territory (UT), he acknowledged the new era of sports that has emerged in Jammu and Kashmir under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Lt. Governor commended the focus on state-of-the-art infrastructure and allied facilities, which has significantly boosted the sports sector.
Expressing gratitude to the Union Sports Ministry and the Sports Authority of India for their support and cooperation, he mentioned the development of national and international level sports infrastructure in J&K under the Prime Minister’s Development Package (PMDP).
Union Minister for Information & Broadcasting and Youth Affairs & Sports, Anurag Thakur, extended his best wishes through a video message for the successful conduct of the Winter Games event and encouraged the participating athletes to give their best in the tournament.
Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports Nisith Pramanik, present at the occasion, lauded the Lt. Governor-led UT Administration for developing sports infrastructure at the grassroots level, setting a milestone for other states as well.
The day featured two events of Nordic Skiing, one each for women and men categories. The Nordic Women Skiing for Sprint 1.6 km saw enthusiastic participation from 20 athletes representing different states and organizations. Bhavani Thekkada from Karnataka emerged as the winner, with Selma Soreng and Sapna of ITBP securing second and third positions, respectively.
The Nordic Men for Sprint 10 km witnessed the participation of 33 players from various regions, with enthusiastic performances displayed across the spectrum.