Government Support and Sports Infrastructure
The Games are organised by the Youth Services and Sports Department of Ladakh under the supervision of the Sports Authority of India. National sports federations provide technical expertise to ensure smooth conduct of ice sports, including hockey and skating events.
Sports Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya highlighted that hosting two Khelo India events in January 2026, including the Beach Games in Diu, underscores India’s commitment to strengthening the domestic sporting ecosystem. “The Winter Games create avenues for athletes to compete and excel in winter sports, historically limited in India,” he said.
Figure Skating and Ice Hockey Spotlight
While ice hockey remains the centerpiece of KIWG Ladakh, figure skating has drawn significant attention. India sent its largest-ever team of 23 skaters to the Asian Winter Games in Harbin, China last February, where Tara Prasad finished eighth overall, marking India’s best figure skating performance, while Manjesh Tiwari placed 15th among men.
Senior national coach Mohammad Abbas Nordak stated, “In Harbin, we showed we can compete internationally. Khelo India Winter Games provides vital domestic exposure and competition for aspiring winter athletes.”
Participation and Medal Prospects
Seventeen gold medals will be contested in this edition, with 15 awarded in ice skating. Haryana (62 athletes), Himachal Pradesh (55), and Ladakh (52) have the highest representation among the 21 participating states and Union Territories.
Dr Mandaviya emphasised that the Khelo India calendar has been institutionalised, offering multiple formats such as the upcoming Khelo India Tribal Games. This structured competition cycle aims to provide athletes with consistent opportunities to progress and achieve sporting excellence.
Challenging Conditions and Athlete Readiness
Competitors will perform under challenging high-altitude conditions with sub-zero temperatures and low oxygen levels. The event serves as a platform for athletes to adapt to extreme environments, enhancing resilience and preparedness for international competitions.
With figure skating’s Olympic inclusion and Ladakh aiming to defend its medal lead, the Khelo India Winter Games 2026 promises to be a significant milestone in India’s sporting journey, fostering talent and expanding winter sports participation nationwide.
