TAUSEEF AHMAD
SRINAGAR, Feb 13: The world-famous ski resort of Gulmarg is poised to witness a major sporting spectacle as it prepares to host the sixth edition of the Khelo India Winter Games (KIWG) from February 23 to 26. Nearly 400 athletes from various states and Union Territories across the country are expected to participate in multiple snow sport disciplines, transforming the snowy slopes of Kongdoori into a vibrant arena of national-level winter competition.
The snow sports leg in Gulmarg follows the successful completion of the ice sports phase held in Ladakh from January 20 to 26, marking the first segment of KIWG 2026. The announcement regarding the Gulmarg leg was made by Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya, who described the timing of the event as significant, coming close on the heels of the Winter Olympics. He expressed optimism about the smooth and successful conduct of the competitions in Jammu and Kashmir, underscoring the Centre’s commitment to promoting winter sports in the region.
Four Medal Disciplines at Kongdoori Slopes
According to officials, the Gulmarg edition will feature four key medal disciplines: Alpine Skiing, Nordic (Cross-Country) Skiing, Ski Mountaineering, and Snowboarding. All competitions are scheduled to be held at the renowned Kongdoori slopes, which are currently blanketed in fresh snow following recent snowfall in the Valley.
Among the four disciplines, Alpine Skiing is expected to witness the highest participation, reflecting its growing popularity among Indian winter sport athletes. Organizers believe that the natural terrain and snow conditions in Gulmarg offer an ideal competitive environment, comparable to several international venues.
Athletes See KIWG as Stepping Stone to Global Platforms
Speaking to Kashmir Despatch, Aasif, an alpine skier from the Valley, highlighted the importance of regular high-level domestic competitions in improving India’s global standing in winter sports.
“When athletes compete consistently under pressure at home, it sharpens their technical ability, timing, and mental strength,” he said. “Platforms like the Khelo India Winter Games create that competitive ecosystem in India. If we want to see more Indian skiers at the Winter Olympics, we must strengthen events like these.”
He added that competing in Gulmarg carries special emotional significance for local athletes. “For us, competing in Gulmarg is both an honour and a responsibility. We have trained on these slopes since childhood, but performing in a national event in front of athletes from across India adds a different level of pressure and pride. Hosting Khelo India here will inspire many local children to take winter sports seriously and believe they can represent the country one day.”
Boost to Tourism and Local Economy
Beyond sports, the event is expected to provide a significant boost to the local economy. Hotelier Fayaz Ahmad told Kashmir Despatch that Gulmarg has been witnessing an unprecedented tourist rush following recent snowfall, describing it as the first such surge since the Pahalgam attack.
He noted that hotels and guest houses are witnessing high occupancy rates, bringing much-needed relief to stakeholders in the hospitality sector. “Events like the Khelo India Winter Games not only provide a competitive platform for athletes but also support the livelihoods of thousands of people in Gulmarg who depend directly or indirectly on winter tourism,” he said.
The influx of athletes, officials, support staff, and visitors is expected to further enhance business for hoteliers, transport operators, ski instructors, and local vendors.
Administration Reviews Preparations
Officials have stated that comprehensive arrangements are in place to ensure the smooth conduct of the event. Director Tourism Kashmir, Syed Qamar Sajad, informed the media that there are no infrastructure gaps and that preparations related to accommodation, logistics, and venue readiness have been finalized in coordination with the district administration and other line departments.
Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Minga Sherpa, also chaired review meetings to assess preparedness and directed concerned departments to ensure proper traffic regulation, uninterrupted water supply, and availability of essential services during the four-day event.
Athletes participating in the games are expected to arrive in the Valley on February 21 and 22 to acclimatize and complete pre-event formalities.
Medal Race and Defending Champions
The first leg of KIWG 2026 in Ladakh saw Haryana lead the medal tally with four gold medals. Meanwhile, the Indian Army, which topped the overall standings in the previous edition, will aim to defend its title in the snow sports leg at Gulmarg.
In recent years, the Khelo India Winter Games have evolved into a crucial national platform for promoting winter sports in India. By providing structured competition and encouraging wider participation in disciplines that once had limited visibility, the Games have played a key role in nurturing talent from regions like Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Ladakh.
As Gulmarg readies its slopes and hospitality infrastructure, the 6th edition of the Khelo India Winter Games promises not only thrilling competition but also renewed hope for India’s ambitions in international winter sports.
