Gulmarg: Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya on Wednesday reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to transforming Gulmarg into a premier global winter sports destination while addressing the closing ceremony of the second leg of the 6th Khelo India Winter Games in Jammu and Kashmir.
In a major announcement, Dr. Mandaviya said future editions of the Winter Games in Gulmarg would be expanded into a 15-day integrated sporting festival. The extended event will combine competitive winter sports with tourism, cultural activities, and Fit India initiatives.
“The Winter Games will no longer be limited to four days. By integrating tourism and culture, we will host a 15-day-long celebration including a Fit India Carnival and multiple competitions,” the Minister said.
Record Participation at 6th Khelo India Winter Games
The second leg of the 6th Khelo India Winter Games witnessed participation from over 900 athletes representing 25 States and Union Territories. Young sportspersons from across the country competed in various winter disciplines, showcasing the growing popularity of winter sports in India.
The Minister lauded the enthusiasm of athletes and coaches, particularly those training at Khelo India Centres in Jammu and Kashmir. He noted that a strong sporting culture is emerging in the region.
National Centre of Excellence in J&K
To further strengthen winter sports infrastructure, Dr. Mandaviya announced the establishment of a National Centre of Excellence (NCoE) in Jammu and Kashmir. The centre will provide advanced training facilities, scientific support systems, and structured athlete development pathways.
The initiative aims to position Jammu and Kashmir as a leading destination for winter sports training in India and beyond. Officials believe this will significantly enhance India’s preparedness for international winter sporting events.
“From Patharbaji to Skiing”
Highlighting the transformative power of sports, the Minister remarked that the Valley, once associated with unrest, is now increasingly recognised for skiing and winter competitions. He stated that after the abrogation of Article 370, sports has gained remarkable momentum in the region.
“Through sports, Jammu and Kashmir is writing a new chapter of progress and possibility,” he said, emphasising how sporting activities promote unity, discipline, and harmony.
Vision of Viksit Bharat and 2036 Olympics
Dr. Mandaviya linked the expansion of winter sports in Gulmarg to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s broader vision of Viksit Bharat. He reiterated India’s ambition to host the 2036 Olympic Games and to rank among the top five sporting nations by 2047, when the country marks 100 years of Independence.
He highlighted the role of Khelo India initiatives including School Games, University Games, Youth Games, Winter Games, Tribal Games, North East Games and Beach Games in building a year-round sporting ecosystem.
Khelo Bharat Niti and Athlete-Centric Policy
The Minister also referred to the recently announced Khelo Bharat Niti, describing it as an athlete-centric framework aimed at fulfilling the aspirations of India’s youth. The policy seeks to strengthen grassroots infrastructure, enhance talent identification, and provide better financial and institutional support to sportspersons.
Officials stated that the integration of tourism, culture, and sports in Gulmarg will not only boost athletic excellence but also contribute to local employment and economic development.