Khelo India Winter Games kick off at Leh

The much-anticipated Khelo India Winter Games (KIWG) 2025 got off to an exciting start on Thursday, as the event opened at the iconic NDS Stadium in Leh on a crisp, icy morning. The first leg of the Winter Games is being hosted by the Union Territory of Ladakh until January 27, while Jammu and Kashmir will take over from February 22-25 to host the snow games.

The flight carrying Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, who was scheduled to attend the opening ceremony, was unable to land at Leh’s Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport due to adverse weather conditions. Despite his absence, the event proceeded with great enthusiasm, with several dignitaries in attendance, including the Lt Governor of UT-Ladakh, Brigadier BD Mishra (Retd.). The opening ceremony was marked by a parade of teams skating past the VIP podium, followed by a vibrant cultural display and an exhibition ice hockey match.

In his message for KIWG 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated the government’s commitment to promoting sports across India, emphasising how Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir have become key players in elevating the country’s sports culture and tourism. “Ladakh and J&K have not only elevated the culture of sports in our country, but also boosted tourism, showcasing the nation’s beauty and diversity,” PM Modi said.

In an official statement, he further mentioned, “Our government attaches top priority to sports development in Ladakh and J&K. Through 100 Khelo India Centres in J&K and three in Ladakh, including a State Centre of Excellence in Leh for athletics, archery, and boxing, our efforts are shaping the region into a hub of sporting excellence.” He also noted that KIWG 2025 would play a vital role in advancing India’s sporting achievements to new heights.

While Mandaviya could not attend the opening ceremony, he expressed his disappointment but extended his cheers to all participants and stakeholders.

The sporting events for KIWG 2025 kicked off on Thursday with exciting ice hockey matches held at the NDS complex and the Ladakh Scouts Regimental Centre.