Srinagar, Feb 19: The snow-laden landscapes of Srinagar and a traditional Kashmiri reception on Monday welcomed participants of the Khelo India Winter Games on their arrival at Srinagar Airport.
Secretary, Youth Services and Sports, Sarmad Hafeez received the athletes, stressing that meticulous arrangements have been put in place to ensure the seamless execution of the games.
With the lingering spectre of the Covid-19 pandemic, he assured that strict adherence to protocols and guidelines would be maintained, prioritizing the health and safety of participants and officials.
Hafeez expressed hope about the event serving as a catalyst for nurturing winter sports talent, with Gulmarg’s world-class facilities and recent history of hosting national and international skiing competitions. He aspired that the games would inspire a new wave of youngsters to embrace winter sports, ultimately bringing honor to the nation.
En route to Gulmarg, athletes were treated to the traditional Kashmiri beverage, kehwa, amidst a gentle snowfall, encapsulating the essence of local hospitality. The athletes reveled in the snowflakes, adding to the allure of the winter wonderland that is Kashmir.
This year’s edition boasts over 800 participants, ready to compete in diverse winter sports such as snowboarding, alpine skiing, nordic skiing, and ski mountaineering. The athletes, brimming with excitement, eagerly anticipate friendly competition and the chance to bask in the scenic beauty of Gulmarg.
Expressing gratitude, the athletes thanked the government and organizers for facilitating this opportunity, acknowledging the meticulous arrangements for their travel and stay.
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