Despite low snowfall, organisers ensure smooth conduct
Participants call for long-term investment to make Gulmarg global-ready
Gulmarg: Athletes competing in the sixth edition of the Khelo India Winter Games here have praised the arrangements and technical preparedness of organisers, saying competitions were conducted smoothly despite reduced snowfall this season.
The four-day national event at Gulmarg has drawn nearly 1,000 athletes and officials from across States and Union Territories.
Events across alpine skiing, Nordic skiing, snowboarding, and ski mountaineering are underway, with participants describing the atmosphere as energetic and professionally managed.
Sandhya Thakur of Himachal Pradesh, who won gold in the Alpine Giant Slalom with a timing of 01:23.285 seconds, said slope grooming and race management ensured fair competition.
“I am very happy. Despite the less snow, the arrangements have been really good. There is enthusiasm among the players, and the slope grooming was excellent. We are thankful to everyone for their support,” she said.
Jiah Aryan of Karnataka, who has received training in Italy and clocked 01:31.064 seconds in the same discipline, echoed the sentiment, calling the event well organised and motivating.
“There is a lot of enthusiasm among athletes. It feels good and heart-warming to compete here. Participating in the Winter Games in Gulmarg was an “amazing experience,” she said.
However, Aryan stressed that sustained infrastructure development would be crucial if Gulmarg is to host larger international competitions.
“The government here can do wonders. If we invest more in infrastructure, Gulmarg can even host international sporting events,” she said.
Athletes competing in Nordic skiing and snowboarding events also appreciated the technical teams for maintaining competitive slopes despite weather challenges.
Several participants noted that consistent grooming ensured safety and parity across categories, allowing them to focus solely on performance.
The Games have witnessed strong participation from women athletes across disciplines, reflecting growing inclusivity and competitiveness in winter sports. Competitors said the increasing number of female participants signals a positive shift in the country’s sporting culture.
Young skiers highlighted the expanding grassroots reach of winter sports through national initiatives.
Mohammad Ateef Khan, 8, and Mohammad Hazik Khan, 10, who entered the sport through the Khelo India programme, said they were enjoying the opportunity to compete at a national-level event.
“I have been coming here for the last four years with my family. We are enjoying a lot,” one of them said, underscoring rising interest among children and families in winter disciplines.
Participants said that despite erratic weather and lower snowfall in February, coordinated efforts by officials ensured minimal disruption.
Many athletes emphasised that professional management and preparedness were key to maintaining competitive standards.
Mir Farhan, an athlete from Ganderbal, described the Games as a platform for learning, networking, and exposure.
“Athletes from different states trained together are sharing their experiences with us. It gives us more exposure and reflects the broader objective of the Khelo India initiative,” he said.
Mir said this event aims not only to identify and nurture emerging talent but also to strengthen Gulmarg’s standing as a national winter sports hub.
