Kashmir–The New Winter Sports Hotspot: Union Minister Nitish Pramanik
Suhail Khan
GULMARAG, Feb 21: The Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday inaugurated the highly anticipated snow sports event of the 4th Khelo India Games at the renowned ski resort, Gulmarg.
Addressing the enthusiastic crowd as per Kashmir Despatch, LG acknowledged the significance of this momentous occasion for the more than 600 athletes who have tirelessly trained for this spectacular event.
The LG expressed his understanding of the athletes’ dedication, stating, “I comprehend the immense value that this day holds for all the participants of the ‘Khelo India Winter Games’. These athletes have committed years of their lives to prepare for this very moment. It is my fervent wish that their hard work pays off and their efforts are duly rewarded.”
He further acknowledged the instrumental role played by PM Modi in developing Jammu & Kashmir’s sports infrastructure, stating, “Thanks to the efforts of PM Modi, Jammu & Kashmir has secured a special place in the realm of sports. I extend a warm welcome to all athletes from across the country. I am confident that the eyes of the entire nation will be fixated on J&K during these four days of sporting excellence…”
The Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha on the occasion announced that sports infrastructure in the region has been significantly improved and will continue to be developed in the future.
Sinha stated that the expectations of the people have increased with these developments. He also mentioned that sports infrastructure in the border districts of Jammu and Kashmir will be enhanced.
Sinha highlighted the enthusiasm of the youth in sports activities and expressed gratitude to the Union Ministry of Sports for their support in organizing the winter games.
Union Minister of State for the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Nitish Pramanik on the occasion said that Kashmir is set to replace Switzerland as a premier winter sports destination. He highlighted the fact that athletes from Switzerland, known for its iconic snow-capped mountains, are now flocking to India for winter sports.
The union minister said that this shift in trend showcases the burgeoning sporting spirit in the country, as evidenced by the enthusiastic participation in the Khelo India Khelo event, even in the bone-chilling cold weather.
The minister further emphasized that the government has implemented numerous initiatives and programs specifically tailored to promote sports at all levels, bolstering the nation’s sporting prowess.
Pramanik, emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to transform Jammu and Kashmir into a sporting nation.
He said as per Kashmir Despatch Correspondent, with a clear focus on sports and infrastructural development, the aim is to provide athletes with the necessary facilities to excel in their respective fields.
The union home minister said that this dedication is reflected in the significant budgetary allocation made by the central government for the sports sector in Jammu and Kashmir.
The minister underscored the importance of investing in sports development in the region, highlighting the positive impact it would have on the overall growth and recognition of Jammu and Kashmir as a sporting hub.
Games in Gulmarg held at a time when the Kashmir Valley witnessed a prolonged dry spell during the peak winter months of December and January. However, multiple spells of snowfall have come to the rescue of these games this month.
Pertinently, The event organizers were thrilled with the exceptional turnout of 800 athletes who participated in the fourth edition of the Khelo India Winter Games. The picturesque venue of Gulmarg added to the excitement as it received an incredible three feet of fresh snowfall within the last 48 hours. With such ideal conditions, the athletes were eager to showcase their skills and compete in this prestigious sporting event. The abundance of snow set the stage for thrilling races, breathtaking jumps, and extraordinary displays of talent, making it a truly unforgettable experience for all involved.
An official said the athletes from across the country participated in events like snowboarding, alpine skiing, Nordic skiing, and ski mountaineering.
Talking to Kashmir Despatch
Nuzhat Gul, the secretary of J&K Sports Council said that the field of play was meticulously prepared by the most skilled technical teams to ensure that it met international standards for the players. She expressed their dedication to providing a top-level playing environment.
She said, snow beaters were put to use in order to create the perfect stage for the games.
Gul said that Gulmarg holds a unique distinction in the country as being one of the premier destinations for winter games. It serves as the highest platform for those who have a passion for such sports.
Gul said that players must compete and earn rankings in order to eventually qualify for larger sporting events, such as the Olympics. Even local players have the opportunity to test their abilities and experience the level of competition offered through these events.
Gul emphasized the importance of these competitions in exposing players to higher standards and greater challenges.
Events Details on Day 1
An official while sharing the details of Day-1 to Kashmir Despatch said The Jammu & Kashmir Sports Council and associated departments organized two events of Nordic Skiing for both women and men on the first day.
The Nordic Women Skiing event started at the Golf Club, with officials facilitating the participants and installing timers at the starting and finishing points. Twenty women athletes from different states and organizations participated in the event, including representatives from ITBP, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Ladakh, Karnataka, Meghalaya, Haryana, and Uttarakhand. Bhavani Thekkada from Karnataka emerged as the winner, followed by Selma Soreng and Sapna from ITBP in second and third positions, respectively.
The Nordic Men Sprint event witnessed enthusiastic participation from thirty-three players, including representatives from the Army, ITBP, J&K, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Jaharkhand, Karnataka, and West Bengal. The top three positions were secured by Army players, with Padma Namgail finishing first, Mangeet in second place, and Rameez Ahmad Paddar settling for third place.
The players displayed their skills and determination on the slopes, pushing themselves to achieve the top positions. Some players were participating for the first time, while others had previous experience. Geeta Thakur, a coach from Uttarakhand representing ITBP, expressed her excitement about the Winter Games and praised Gulmarg for providing a unique opportunity for young talent.
Rajesh Thakur, a participant in all four editions of the Khelo India Winter Games, shared his experience and appreciation for the improved facilities and accommodations provided. Joginder Kumar from Haryana emphasized the opportunities these games provide for young athletes to pursue a professional career and represent the nation on an international level.
The games commenced with a traditional local cultural presentation by the Bandpether, adding music and soulful essence to the occasion. The Snow Leopard Mascot, represented by Adil, an employee of the J&K Sports Council, added to the spectacle for the second time. Adil highlighted the significance of the Snow Leopard, symbolizing agility and strength, as it is commonly found in the mountains of J&K the official further said.
Suhail Khan is a filmmaker, content writer, and freelance journalist.
