Gulmarg, 22 February (KNB): Union Minister of State for Home Affairs and Youth Affairs & Sports, Nisith Pramanik, flagged off the women’s mountain ski event at Kondoori Phase 1 in Gulmarg on Thursday, as part of the 4rd edition of Khelo India Winter Games.
The minister appreciated the enthusiasm and talent of the female skiers who participated in the event and encouraged them to pursue their passion for winter sports.The minister also interacted with the players and officials.
He expressed his satisfaction over the successful organisation of the national event and praised the efforts of the Jammu and Kashmir administration, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the J&K Sports Council.
The minister said that the Khelo India Winter Games was a major event that showcased the potential of Gulmarg as the capital of winter sports in the country. He said that the next edition of the event would be even bigger and comparable with international standards.
He also thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Minister Anurag Thakur and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha for their support and guidance in developing sports infrastructure in J&K and promoting winter sports among the youth.
The minister said that the Khelo India Winter Games was not only a sports event, but also a snow festival that celebrated the beauty and culture of Gulmarg and J&K. He said that the event has boosted the tourism and economy of the region and attracted visitors from across the country and abroad.
He said that J&K has transitioned into a new era of prosperity and peace under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha.The minister expressed his hope that the Khelo India Winter Games would inspire more youngsters to take up winter sports and excel in them.
He said that the government is committed to provide all the necessary facilities and support to the budding sportspersons and make India a global leader in winter sports.-KNB