Artists perform at the inaugural opening of the Khelo India 2026 Winter Games at Gulmarg in Baramulla district on February 23, 2026. | Photo credit: Imran Nissar
With climate change posing a challenge to the annual winter games in Kashmir, J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday (February 23, 2026) called for artificial snow-making infrastructure to ensure prospects for future winter sports.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the sixth edition of the Khelo India Winter Games in Gulmarg, which received only light snowfall this season, Mr Abdullah said: “The time has come for us to switch to artificial snow. I understand the concerns about water and electricity consumption, but if we don’t create this infrastructure, there may come a day when we won’t even be able to ski in Gulmarg, and that would be unfortunate.”
The Chief Minister of J&K asked the organizers not to fix the dates of the games in advance. “We decide to hold the games 10 to 15 days after there is enough snow,” Mr Abdullah said.
More than 1,000 athletes and officials from 25 states and union territories are participating in the Games at Gulmarg, located at an altitude of 2,650 meters. Athletes began competing on Monday (February 23, 2026) in disciplines such as alpine skiing, Nordic skiing, snowboarding, ski mountaineering.
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah during the opening ceremony of the Khelo India 2026 Winter Games in Gulmarg on February 23, 2026. | Photo credit: Imran Nissar
“It is not only the government’s intention but its consistent and sustained efforts to transform Gulmarg into an international ski destination,” said Mr. Abdullah.
Referring to global winter sports events, he said, “For the past few days we have been watching the Winter Olympics in Cortina, Italy. Congratulations to the Indian skier, our very own Arif Khan, who proudly waved the national flag and represented the country. I hope this edition of the Khelo India Winter Games will produce a new Arif Khan.”
Lt. Gen. J&K Manoj Sinha, who inaugurated the games, said the event revived sportsmanship and the ideals of peace, equality and camaraderie.
“In our vibrant, diverse nation of myriad languages, cultures and traditions, the Gulmarg Winter Games serve as a universal language and shared heritage. The broader objective of the Khelo India Winter Games is to strengthen national unity,” said Mr. Sinha.
He said the intense rivalry brings about shared conversations and lasting friendships, “proving that healthy competition and mutual respect exist side by side.” “Our people need this ethos now more than ever. As you race these slopes, remember: diversity is our strength, not division. Khelo India reminds us that our language may differ, but our goals and values unite us,” LG said.
He said the establishment of state-of-the-art sports infrastructure under the Prime Minister’s Development Package (PMDP) and 100 Khelo India centers has redefined the sports landscape. He pointed out that the modern infrastructure along with the talent and dedication of the youth of J&K and the proactive support of dedicated officials have given the sector a massive boost. The four-day games will end on February 26.
Published – 23 Feb 2026 21:29 IST
