J&K Boosts Winter Sports with ₹155 Crore Allocation Ahead of Khelo India Winter Games in Gulmarg

The frost of winter is sharpening the ambition, and the slopes of Gulmarg are standing steady to turn it into a national milestone. With seasoned athletes, rising talents, and a robust sports ecosystem converging at India’s premier ski destination, this year’s event highlights how strategic infrastructure and careful preparation are shaping the future of winter sports in the country.

Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya has announced that the Khelo India Winter Games (KIWG) 2026 will return to Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir, from February 23 to 26, marking the snow sports leg of the national competition after the ice sports leg held earlier in Ladakh. The snow events will include Ski Mountaineering, Alpine Skiing, Nordic Skiing (Cross-Country), and Snowboarding, drawing about 400 athletes from across India to compete on the Kongdoori slopes.

Gulmarg’s selection as a regular host underscores its ability to cater with mature winter sports ecosystem, which is rendered through assistance of the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the J&K Sports Council. The authorities have aligned their ideas for revamping the venues, such as Kangdoori Phase 1 and the Gulmarg Golf Course, with an allocation of about ₹155 crores to the Sports & Youth Affairs Ministry, the vision has been given a life by the government.

Beyond venue readiness, the Jammu & Kashmir administration has rolled out extensive logistical arrangements for the Games. Deputy Commissioner Baramulla Minga Sherpa reviewed preparations, including venue inspections, ski-slope maintenance, athlete housing, transportation coordination, medical support, snow clearance, and utility arrangements to ensure smooth conduct of the Winter Games.