Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today reaffirmed that it is not merely the government’s intention but its consistent and sustained effort to develop Gulmarg into an international ski destination, emphasizing that this vision will create opportunities and benefit all sectors associated with sports and tourism in the region.
The Chief Minister was addressing the inaugural ceremony of the 6th edition of the Khelo India Winter Games, which were formally inaugurated earlier in the day by Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha at the picturesque ski resort of Gulmarg.
Welcoming athletes, officials and guests from across the country, the Chief Minister said, “In this 6th Khelo India Winter Games, I welcome all players, team members, ladies and gentlemen to your beautiful flowery valley—Gulmarg. A few weeks ago, we witnessed intense cold here. We had no idea that when the Games begin, there would be such warmth that skiing would become challenging. We may have to make some adjustments.”
Referring to global winter sporting events, he said, “In the last few days, we were watching the Winter Olympics in Cortina, Italy. I congratulate India’s skier, our own Arif Khan, who proudly waved the national flag and represented the country. I hope that from this edition of Khelo India Winter Games, a new Arif Khan will emerge.”
The Chief Minister expressed concern over India’s performance in international winter sporting events. “It is a matter of regret that despite our vast population, we have not yet secured a medal in the Asian Winter Games or the Olympic Winter Games. Whether you are a skier, skater or associated with any winter sport, I hope one among you will change that narrative.”
Highlighting the challenges posed by climate variability, he said, “The truth is we cannot rely solely on nature. We decide the dates for the Games at the beginning of the year without knowing when snowfall will occur or how much snow will be there. I request the organizers not to fix dates in advance. Let us decide to hold the Games 10 to 15 days after sufficient snowfall.”
Stressing the need for long-term infrastructure, the Chief Minister called for investment in artificial snow generation systems. “Time has come for us to move towards artificial snow generation. I understand concerns about water and electricity usage, but if we do not create this infrastructure, a day may come when we will not even be able to ski in Gulmarg, and that would be truly unfortunate.”
Reiterating his government’s commitment, he said, “Not only it is our intention, but our full effort is to develop Gulmarg as an international ski resort. This will strengthen sports and provide economic security to all those connected with tourism.”
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah underscored the livelihood dimension of winter tourism. “People associated with tourism like sledge operators, ski guides, ski instructors, ATV drivers, all make their living from this snow. It is our duty to provide the means and infrastructure that promote tourism and ensure its sustenance.”
Encouraging the participants, he remarked, “I once again welcome all players who have come from across the country. I hope the next three days are wonderful for you. As always said, winning is not as important as participating. You have come here to participate, and we thank you for that.”
Minister for Youth Services & Sports Satish Sharma, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, MLA Gulmarg Farooq Ahmad Shah, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Commandant of the High Altitude Warfare School (HAWS) Major General Puneet Doval, Commissioner Secretary Youth Services & Sports Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg, IGP Kashmir V.K. Birdi, Deputy Commissioner Baramulla Minga Sherpa, delegates, participants and other senior officers were present on the occasion.