Srinagar Feb 24: The Department of Youth Services and Sports (YSS) J&K launched its 4th consecu-tive skiing training course at the Gulmarg for students from various educational institutions on Mon-day.
The 15-day course began, with the Assistant Director of Tourism, Gulmarg, inaugurating the event.
This course features 50 enthusiastic female students from all districts of the Kashmir division. A team of highly skilled trainers is providing comprehensive training in the basics of skiing, ensuring that the participants gain a strong foundation in the sport. The program is designed to empower young girls with essential skiing skills while fostering a spirit of adventure and sportsmanship. Hilal Ahmed, In-charge of Hutments YSS Gulmarg, shared details about the course, emphasizing the Department’s commitment to providing top-notch training facilities. “The Department of Youth Services and Sports, J&K, is committed to offering the best possible training to these students. We are ensuring proper accommodation and nutritional food for all participants throughout the course that too free of any charges,” he said.
In addition to the Gulmarg program, the Department has also initiated its annual skiing training at the picturesque Gurez Valley and Sonamarg. The 10-day course, which began on Sunday at Darthani Nallah Badwan, Gurez, was inaugurated by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Gurez and the Zonal Education Officer (ZEO) of Gurez. This initiative aims to nurture young talent and promote win-ter sports in the region.
Under the guidance of the Director General of Youth Services and Sports J&K, the Gurez program includes 50 boys and girls who are eager to learn and excel in skiing. The course is being conducted under the supervision of the District Youth Services and Sports Officer (DYSSO), Bandipora, along with the dedicated physical education staff of Zone Gurez.
By popularizing skiing in Gurez, the Department is not only fostering a new generation of athletes but also positioning Gurez as an attractive winter tourism destination. The SDM of Gurez, speaking at the inauguration, highlighted the transformative impact of the program. “This skiing course is not just about sports; it’s about empowering our youth and putting Gurez on the map as a winter desti-nation,” he said. These training programs are enhancing Kashmiri’s reputation further as a hub for winter sports, attract skiing enthusiasts, and boost local tourism and economic activities.