Gulmarg, Feb 23 : Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday inaugurated the 6th Khelo India Winter Games at the iconic ski resort of Gulmarg, describing the event as a “true national festival” that transcends regional and linguistic barriers to strengthen the fabric of national unity.
Addressing a gathering of athletes, officials, and dignitaries, the Lt Governor asserted that the mega winter sports event is more than just a competition; it is a celebration of India’s diverse sporting legacy. “Khelo India Winter Games revive the sporting spirit’s ideals of peace, equality, and camaraderie. In our vibrant, diverse nation of myriad languages, cultures, and traditions, the Winter Games at Gulmarg are serving as a universal language and shared heritage,” he said.
Emphasising the broader objective of the games, Sinha stated that the primary aim is to fortify national unity. “Intense rivalry yields shared conversations and lasting friendships, proving that healthy competition and mutual respect coexist. Our people need this ethos now more than ever. As you race on these ski slopes, remember: diversity is our strength, not division,” the Lt Governor told the athletes.
He urged the participants to view the challenges of the slopes as life lessons in resilience. “Winter Games at Gulmarg mirror life’s raw challenges, building the resilience that propels future triumphs. Falling, analyzing errors, rising improved—these are sports’ true lessons, ones skiers will live here,” Sinha added.
The Lt Governor also highlighted the transformative impact of the Centre’s initiatives on the sporting landscape of Jammu and Kashmir. He credited the Prime Minister’s Development Package (PMDP) and the establishment of 100 Khelo India Centres for providing state-of-the-art infrastructure, which has redefined opportunities for the region’s youth.
He called upon the athletes to embody the true spirit of sportsmanship. “True character reveals itself not just in victory, but in adversity. A real athlete remains humble in triumph and dignified in defeat,” he remarked.
The four-day event, being held at India’s premier winter sports destination, has attracted nearly 1,000 athletes and officials from various states and Union Territories. Competitions are underway in disciplines including alpine skiing, Nordic skiing, snowboarding, and ski mountaineering.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Minister for Youth Services and Sports Satish Sharma, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, and other senior officials from the administration and security forces. The Lt Governor concluded by stating that the true success of the Games would be measured at the closing ceremony on February 26, not by the medal tally, but “by the spirit of unity, mutual respect, and relentless pursuit of excellence.”(KNS)
