Gulmarg Gears Up For 4th Edition Of Khelo India Winter Games 2024

EE News Desk Feb 22, 2024

As per media reports, Gulmarg, nestled in the Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir, is all ready to host the 4th edition of the Khelo India Winter Games, which commenced on 21 February, 2024. With the participation of over 200 athletes representing 13 states, the event promises an exciting showcase of winter sports against the picturesque backdrop of abundant snowfall in Gulmarg.

Events

Athletes from diverse states will compete in a variety of winter sports during these Winter Games. The featured events encompass snowboarding, alpine skiing, nordic skiing, and snow mountaineering. With representation from 20 states and Union Territories in alpine ski, nordic ski, and snowboarding, and 10 states in the ski mountaineering competition, the event is set to showcase a wide array of talents.

Notably, the initial segment of the games, featuring Ice Hockey and Ice Skating, took place in Leh on 2 February,2024 owing to the dry winter conditions in Gulmarg.

Dates

In collaboration with the Tourism Department, Gulmarg Development Authority, and various stakeholders, the Department of Youth Services and Sports along with the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council is orchestrating the event. Commenced on 21 February, 2024 and to conclude on 25 February, 2024, the organised Winter Games showcase a joint effort to promote sports and tourism in the region.

Mascot

The Snow Leopard has been selected as the mascot for the Khelo India Winter Games, symbolizing a commitment to wildlife conservation, preserving natural habitats, and addressing mountain development concerns of the locals.

Sarmad Hafeez, the Secretary of Youth Services and Sports in Jammu and Kashmir, conducted a review meeting on 18 February, 2024 to assess the preparations for the upcoming event. Emphasising Gulmarg's potential to evolve into a world-class winter sports destination, Hafeez urged comprehensive efforts to ensure the grand success of the event.

Highlighting the Khelo India Winter Games as a platform to showcase the scenic beauty of Jammu and Kashmir, Hafeez expressed confidence in the region's outstanding slopes and high-quality snow, attracting skiers from around the globe.

Anticipating the participation of over 200 athletes from 13 states under the central government's flagship Khelo India scheme, these Winter Games are poised not only to showcase sporting prowess but also to stimulate tourism and bolster the local economy, according to officials.