In an inspiring achievement, three women from Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh have been selected to represent India at the 2025 Asian Winter Games in Harbin, China. Tanuja, Sandhya from Palchan, and Aanchal Thakur from Burua, Solang Valley in Kullu district, have earned the honour of competing in the prestigious event, which will be held from February 7 to 14.
The three players have undergone rigorous training in Italy, specifically for the Slalom Skiing competition. The Centre has fully supported their training expenses, which were carried out at an international level, enhancing the athletes’ skills and preparations for the upcoming competition. Aanchal Thakur, who has previously represented India in skiing competitions abroad, has already made a name for herself with her impressive performances, bringing pride to the state.
Aanchal’s father Roshan Thakur expressed immense pride in his daughter’s accomplishments, praising the support from the Central Government. "The support of the Centre for the training of these players in Italy is highly commendable. It is a matter of great pride for Himachal Pradesh that these daughters of the state will be representing India on the international stage," he said.
Manali MLA Bhuvaneshwar Gaur also congratulated the athletes, emphasising the importance of supporting young women in sports. "A daughter is priceless. We are all proud of these young women for representing our state and nation at such a prominent event," he remarked. The success of these athletes is being celebrated across the state, with local communities from all regions taking immense pride in their achievements.
The 2025 Asian Winter Games will be held in Harbin, Heilongjiang, China, marking the second time the city will host the event and the third time China has hosted the Asian Winter Games. The games will feature various winter sports, including skiing, ice skating and snowboarding, providing a platform for athletes from across Asia to showcase their talent and compete at the highest level.
With their hard work and determination, these three women from Himachal Pradesh are all set to make their mark in the 2025 Asian Winter Games.