Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya lit up the closing ceremony of the second phase of Khelo India Winter Games in Gulmarg with visionary announcements. Held in the snow-capped meadows of Jammu and Kashmir, the event saw 900+ athletes from 25 states compete fiercely, fostering national unity through sports.
Proclaiming Gulmarg’s destiny as a global winter sports epicenter, Mandaviya stressed the center’s unwavering support. The minister’s address painted a vivid picture of integrated events blending athletics, adventure tourism, and cultural showcases.
A standout revelation: future games will span 15 days, incorporating the Fit India Carnival, cultural programs, and extended competitions—far beyond the conventional four days. This holistic approach aims to maximize tourism and participation.
Mandaviya lauded J&K’s sports evolution, from conflict zones to ski slopes, accelerated after Article 370’s revocation. He highlighted vibrant interactions at local Khelo India centers, signaling rising excellence and social cohesion.
Aligning with PM Modi’s Viksit Bharat@2047, the vision includes robust sports ecosystems for 2036 Olympics and top global rankings. Khelo India’s multi-format games—spanning schools to beaches—ensure continuous opportunities.
In concrete steps, a National Centre of Excellence will enhance winter sports facilities, complemented by the athlete-focused Khelo Bharat policy, setting India on a path to sporting supremacy.