Gulmarg, Feb 23: Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani on Monday said the government is working to develop Gulmarg into an international skiing destination as the sixth edition of the Khelo India Winter Games got underway with participation from across the country and abroad.
Addressing athletes, officials and spectators at the opening ceremony, the Advisor said hosting the games for the sixth time reflects Jammu and Kashmir’s growing stature in winter sports.
“It is a moment of pride for us. Our aim is to take Gulmarg to such heights that it hosts more international sporting events in the future,” he said.
He said sustained efforts are being made to establish Gulmarg as the country’s premier skiing hub, though weather conditions occasionally pose challenges to winter sports activities.
The Advisor added that the government is focusing on promoting multiple sporting disciplines to strengthen the overall sports ecosystem in the Union Territory.
Welcoming foreign athletes, he said international participation enhances the profile of the event and helps promote Jammu and Kashmir as a global winter sports destination.
Highlighting the potential of local youth, he said Jammu and Kashmir has immense sporting talent that needs proper support, training and infrastructure. With the right facilities, local athletes can win medals and bring laurels to the region, he added—(KNO)
