- Gulmarg, March 12, (KINS): Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, has announced that Gulmarg will be developed as a Centre of Excellence for winter sports, aiming to transform the region into a global sporting hub. The declaration was made during the closing ceremony of the fifth Khelo India Winter Games at Gulmarg Golf Club, where he was joined by Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and J&K Minister of Youth Services & Sports Satish Sharma.
Government’s Vision for Sports Development
Highlighting the government’s commitment to nurturing young talent, Dr. Mandaviya stated that sports schools would be established in every district across the country to identify and train promising athletes aged 9 to 24 years. These athletes will then receive advanced training at National Centres of Excellence.
“India has immense talent, and we need to tap into it. Jammu & Kashmir is leading in upskilling coaches, and I have urged all states to follow its model,” he said.
Reaffirming the government’s dedication to sports infrastructure, Dr. Mandaviya emphasized that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, all necessary efforts would be made to elevate sports in Jammu & Kashmir.
“Gulmarg has the potential to be a premier winter sports destination. With strategic investments, we will make it a global hub for skiing and winter sports,” he added.
India’s Roadmap for 2036 Olympics
Dr. Mandaviya also revealed that he recently met with sports ministers from 28 states and 8 Union Territories, along with senior members of National Sports Federations, to strategize India’s bid for the 2036 Olympic Games. A detailed 10-year roadmap has been prepared to strengthen sports infrastructure and ensure India is ready to host the prestigious event.
Gulmarg: India’s Winter Games City
Speaking about the region’s potential, Dr. Mandaviya said, “Gulmarg is not just a meadow of flowers; it is now India’s Winter Games city. I have visited several skiing destinations globally, but Gulmarg is among the best in the world. We just need to maximize its opportunities.”
Indian Army Wins Khelo India Winter Games 2025
Dr. Mandaviya awarded the champions trophy to the Indian Army, which dominated the competition with 18 medals (7 gold, 5 silver, 6 bronze). Himachal Pradesh secured the runner-up position with 18 medals (6 gold, 5 silver, 7 bronze), while Ladakh finished third with 7 medals (4 gold, 2 silver, 1 bronze).
Despite Himachal Pradesh’s strong performance on the final day—winning gold in the women’s relay ski mountaineering event—the Indian Army edged them out by securing one more gold medal. The Army’s success was attributed to their training at the High Altitude Warfare School in Gulmarg and their recent exposure trip to the Asian Winter Games in Harbin, China.
Notable Performers at KIWG 2025
- Rajeshwar Singh (2 gold, 1 silver – ski mountaineering)
- Kusum Rana (2 gold, 1 bronze – women’s Nordic skiing)
- Sunny Singh (1 gold, 1 silver, 1 bronze – men’s Nordic skiing)
- Siddharth Gadekar (1 gold, 1 silver – ski mountaineering)
A striking feature of this year’s games was the strong performances by states without natural winter sports terrain. Maharashtra (13 medals) and Tamil Nadu (5 medals) showcased remarkable growth, proving that India’s winter sports revolution is gaining momentum.
Final Medal Tally
- Indian Army – 18 medals (7 gold, 5 silver, 6 bronze)
- Himachal Pradesh – 18 medals (6 gold, 5 silver, 7 bronze)
- UT of Ladakh – 7 medals (4 gold, 2 silver, 1 bronze)
- Maharashtra – 13 medals (3 gold, 5 silver, 5 bronze)
- Tamil Nadu – 5 medals (3 gold, 2 silver)
For a full list of results and medal tally, visit: Khelo India Winter Games Medal Tally
About Khelo India Winter Games
Under the Khelo India Scheme, the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports organizes multiple national-level competitions, including the Khelo India Youth Games, University Games, Para Games, and Winter Games. Since its inception in 2020, the Winter Games have grown significantly, with 36 states and UTs participating.
This year’s fifth edition was hosted in two phases:
- Ladakh (January 23-27, 2025)
- Jammu & Kashmir (March 9-12, 2025)
Beyond sports, the Khelo India Winter Games also celebrate regional art, culture, and heritage, promoting tourism through sports in the Himalayas.
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