Leh, Jan 23: On a frosty Thursday morning, the much-anticipated Khelo India Winter Games 2025 commenced with grandeur at the iconic NDS Stadium, marking the start of a thrilling sports extravaganza with Prime Minister Narendera Modi lifting the spirits of the players through his virtual speech.
Hosted by the Union Territory of Ladakh from January 23 to January 27, the Games will later move to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir for the snow events scheduled from February 22 to February 25.
The 5000-capacity NDS Stadium was abuzz with excitement as athletes and spectators braved the freezing temperatures to celebrate the opening of the fifth edition of the Khelo India Winter Games. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a congratulatory message, lauded Ladakh and J&K for hosting this prestigious event, emphasising their role as global hubs for winter sports.
In his virtual address, Prime Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to promoting sports across India, highlighting initiatives like 100 Khelo India Centres in J&K and three in Ladakh, including a State Centre of Excellence in Leh for athletics, archery, and boxing. “KIWG 2025 will not only elevate India’s sporting culture but also boost tourism and showcase our nation’s beauty and diversity,” he said.
With adverse weather preventing Union Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya reaching the venue, he, however, declared the Games open via a heartfelt virtual message. The opening ceremony was graced by dignitaries, including Ladakh’s Lieutenant Governor Brigadier Dr. BD Mishra, and featured a vibrant cultural display and an exhibition ice hockey match.
Dr. Mandaviya praised India’s geographic diversity, calling the country a “4D sports destination” capable of hosting a wide range of events, from winter games in the Himalayas to beach sports in South India. Reflecting on India’s recent sporting successes, he expressed optimism about the nation’s future in global competitions.
The Ladakh leg of the Games features 19 teams from states, Union Territories, and institutional outfits like the Army and ITBP, with 594 participants, including 428 athletes. Ice hockey matches at the NDS Stadium and Ladakh Scouts Regimental Centre marked the start of the competitions. The Khelo India Winter Games, initiated in 2020, have become a cornerstone of India’s sports calendar, blending competitive excellence with cultural promotion. This year’s edition, encompassing two ice and four snow disciplines, continues to provide a platform for budding athletes while celebrating the rich heritage and tourism potential of Ladakh and J&K.
