Winter Games 2025: Khelo India Brings Action to Ladakh & J&K

The Khelo India Winter Games (KIWG) 2025 were launched with great enthusiasm at the iconic NDS Stadium in Leh, Ladakh, marking the start of the fifth edition of this national winter sports event. The first phase, taking place in Ladakh, will run from January 23 to January 27, 2025, while the second phase, focusing on snow sports, will be held in Jammu and Kashmir from February 22 to February 25, 2025.

Although adverse weather conditions prevented Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya from attending the opening ceremony in person, he officially opened the Games with an inspiring virtual message to motivate participants and stakeholders.

Grand Opening Ceremony

The opening ceremony at Leh’s NDS Stadium, with a capacity of 5,000 seats, captured the adventurous spirit of winter sports. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Ladakh and J&K for hosting the first major sports event of the 2025 national calendar.

Notable moments from the ceremony included:

• March Past: Teams paraded on skates, displaying their enthusiasm.
• Cultural Displays: Performances showcasing the region’s art, culture, and heritage.
• Exhibition Ice Hockey: A thrilling ice hockey exhibition match set the stage for the Games.

Prominent dignitaries, including the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Brigadier Dr. BD Mishra, attended the event.

Sports Competitions: A Showcase of Talent

The KIWG 2025 kicked off with ice hockey matches at the NDS Stadium and the Ladakh Scouts Regimental Centre.

Participation and Teams

19 teams, representing States, Union Territories, and institutions like the Army and ITBP, are participating in the Games. A total of 594 participants, including 428 athletes, are competing in the Ladakh phase.

Disciplines in Focus

The Games feature competitions in two ice sports and four snow sports, providing athletes with a national platform to display their skills.

Vision and Mission of Khelo India Winter Games

Dr. Mandaviya shared the vision behind the Khelo India Winter Games, which aims to foster talent, promote sports tourism, and establish India as a competitive force in winter sports. He expressed the hope of one day hearing India’s National Anthem, ‘Jana Gana Mana,’ at the Winter Olympics podium.

Khelo India Winter Games: A Brief History

Launched in 2020 under the Khelo India Scheme by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS), the Winter Games have seen participation from 36 States and Union Territories in its four previous editions. This is the second time Ladakh is hosting the event. It provides not only a platform for athletic excellence but also showcases the host region’s art, culture, heritage, and tourism potential.

The Role of KIWG in Sports Development

The Khelo India Scheme encompasses several national competitions, such as:

• Khelo India Youth Games
• Khelo India University Games
• Khelo India Para Games
• Khelo India Winter Games

These initiatives aim to identify and nurture talent, encourage fitness, and create opportunities for athletes to excel on national and international stages.

Ladakh and J&K: Winter Sports Hotspots

Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir have emerged as premier destinations for winter sports due to their natural terrain and climate. Hosting the KIWG 2025 further solidifies their status as hubs for winter sports, attracting both athletes and tourists.

Call to Action: A Bright Future for Winter Sports

Dr. Mandaviya’s statement that India is a “4D sports destination” underscores the country’s potential in diverse sporting disciplines, including winter sports. The Khelo India Winter Games 2025 are not just a competition but a significant step toward gaining global recognition in winter sports and fostering national pride.

As the Games unfold, they are set to inspire the next generation of athletes while showcasing the stunning beauty and cultural richness of Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir.

In Conclusion

The Khelo India Winter Games 2025 kicked off with excitement in Leh, Ladakh, marking the start of this prestigious national winter sports event. The games, spread over two phases, will showcase winter sports talent, with Ladakh hosting the first phase and Jammu & Kashmir taking the spotlight in the second phase.

Despite adverse weather conditions, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya's virtual presence added a motivating touch, ensuring the event's success in inspiring athletes and promoting winter sports across India.