PM Modi praises J&K, Ladakh for elevating country’s sports culture

Srinagar, Leh, New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday praised Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh for elevating the sports culture across the country, and showcasing the nation’s beauty and diversity.
In his message at Khelo India Winter Games (KIWG) 2025 event that commenced in Leh today PM Modi reiterated the government’s commitment to spread sports activities across India and said, “Ladakh and J&K have not only elevated the culture of sports in our country, but also boosted tourism, showcasing the nation’s beauty and diversity.”
“The KIWG 2025 will play a crucial role in taking our sporting excellence to the next level,” the Prime Minister said, adding,
“Our government attaches top priority to sports development in Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir. Through 100 Khelo India Centres in Jammu & Kashmir and three in Ladakh, including a State Centre of Excellence in Leh for athletics, archery, and boxing, our efforts are shaping the region into a hub of sporting excellence.”
The Prime Minister congratulated Ladakh and J&K for organising the first major sports meet of the national calendar and demonstrating to the world why these regions are hubs of winter sports.
The Khelo India Winter Games (KIWG) 2025 kicked off in Leh this morning the opening ceremony took place at the iconic NDS Stadium despite challenging weather conditions.
Union Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya was unable to attend the event due to a flight cancellation caused by inclement weather.
A statement issued by the Ladakh administration stated that Dr. Mandaviya expressed disappointment at missing the opening ceremony. However, he declared the games open in a message, highlighting India’s diverse sporting potential. He described India as a “4D sports destination” with opportunities for winter sports in the Himalayas, adventure sports in the Northeast, beach games in the South, and popular games on the West Coast.
Looking ahead, Dr. Mandaviya expressed optimism for India’s sporting future, citing the successes of 2024 in chess, cricket, the Olympics, and Paralympics. He stated that the Khelo India Winter Games serve as a training ground for future Winter Olympians, where dedicated athletes are being prepared to achieve international success.
Nineteen teams representing states, union territories, and institutions like the Army and ITBP are participating.
A total of 594 participants, including 428 athletes, nineteen teams, comprising States, Union Territories and institutional outfits like Army and ITBP, are competing in the Ladakh leg of KIWG 2025. This marks the second time Ladakh has hosted the winter Games, now in its fifth edition