Gulmarg leg of Khelo India Winter Games 2026 concludes

Onlykashmir.in News Desk

Gulmarg/The Gulmarg leg of the Khelo India Winter Games 2026 concluded with a grand closing ceremony on Thursday.

The closing ceremony was attended by Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Jammu and Kashmir Sports Minister Satish Sharma, Gulmarg MLA Farooq Ahmed Shah and senior officials of the civil and security administration.

The successful holding of the Games was termed as a major milestone for the promotion of winter sports and tourism in Jammu and Kashmir. Athletes from across the country appreciated the facilities, arrangements and competitive atmosphere.

The Indian Army secured the first position by winning a total of 23 medals, including 9 gold, 6 silver and 8 bronze medals. Himachal Pradesh came second with 14 medals, while Ladakh and Maharashtra also showed outstanding performance in various events.

Host Jammu and Kashmir won a total of four medals, including one gold, one silver and two bronze medals, reflecting the gradual improvement in the national winter sports.

Aanchal Thakur, representing Himachal Pradesh, who won a gold and a silver in the slalom events, called it a moment of pride and joy. She said competing with athletes from different parts of the country in Gulmarg enhanced the sports spirit and experience. She expressed hope to include more events in the upcoming editions.

Indian Army gold medalist Mayank Pawar also expressed satisfaction with the facilities and arrangements. He said that they are preparing for the 2027 World Championships and are continuously working hard to perform better at the international level.

According to officials, the successful hosting of the Games has highlighted Gulmarg as a prominent winter sports hub and reflected the growth of winter sports in India.