Gulmarg, March 12, 2025 – The 5th Khelo India Winter Games wrapped up today in Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir, with athletes from across India showcasing remarkable talent and resilience despite challenging conditions. The second leg of the event, held from March 9 to 12, transformed the snow-laden slopes of this renowned ski resort into a vibrant stage for winter sports, reinforcing J&K’s ambition to become a premier winter sports destination.
The games, inaugurated by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday, featured over 550 athletes competing in disciplines such as alpine skiing, nordic skiing, ski mountaineering, and snowboarding. Despite initial delays due to insufficient snowfall earlier this year, a timely western disturbance in late February blanketed Gulmarg’s Kongdoori slopes, setting the stage for a successful event.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah praised the games’ impact, stating, “Khelo India Winter Games not only promote Gulmarg as a tourist destination but also help us develop world-class ski slopes.” He highlighted the government’s commitment to enhancing sports infrastructure, a sentiment echoed by local officials who see the event as a catalyst for economic growth and global recognition.
Standout performances included the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) women’s team securing a silver medal in ski-mountaineering, with the Indian Army dominating the medal tally, continuing their strong showing from the first leg in Ladakh. Athletes like Tenzin Dolma from Himachal Pradesh, who clinched gold in the women’s ski mountaineering vertical event, and Siddharth Gadekar from Maharashtra, a star in alpine skiing, captivated spectators with their skill and determination.
Organizers faced challenges, including overcast skies and an avalanche warning on Tuesday, but their perseverance ensured the schedule proceeded smoothly. “The spirit of our athletes prevailed,” said a J&K Sports Council official, noting the event’s role in fostering national unity under the banner of “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.”
The games also boosted local tourism, with hotels reporting full occupancy and businesses anticipating a surge in visitors. As Gulmarg solidifies its reputation as a winter sports hub, officials are already planning for future national and international events to build on this momentum.
With the closing ceremony held today, the 5th Khelo India Winter Games leave behind a legacy of athletic excellence and a blueprint for J&K’s sporting future.