KIWG a unique opportunity to promote sports culture & winter tourism in Ladakh
STATE TIMES NEWS
LEH: The Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, on Thursday reviewed ongoing preparations for the 6th edition of Khelo India Winter Games, scheduled from January 20 to 26.
During the meeting, Administrative Secretary, Youth Services and Sports, Moses Kunzang, briefed the Lt Governor that the Games will be hosted at three venues: NDS Stadium, Guphuks Pond, and Ladakh Scouts Regimental Center (LSRC). He informed that this edition will feature figure skating alongside ice hockey and speed skating.
Moses informed that an Executive Committee headed by the Chief Secretary, along with functional committees, has been constituted for seamless execution. He also informed that tenders have been floated, and the UT Administration is ensuring top-quality accommodation with heating and running water for participants. Around 500 athletes from across the country, plus 100 technical staff, are expected to participate in the event, he further informed.
Kavinder emphasised zero compromise on quality to provide world-class facilities to the participants. Describing the Games as a marquee national event, he directed aggressive media promotion to showcase Ladakh globally. “The opening ceremony must be vibrant, celebrating Ladakh’s rich cultural heritage,” he instructed, urging departments to coordinate for flawless conduct.
Kavinder Gupta also stressed the importance of ensuring robust logistical and safety arrangements, including efficient transportation, medical facilities, and emergency response mechanisms at all venues. He directed the concerned departments to conduct regular inspections and mock drills well in advance to ensure complete preparedness, particularly keeping in view the extreme winter conditions of the region.
The Lt Governor further highlighted that the Khelo India Winter Games present a unique opportunity to promote sports culture and winter tourism in Ladakh. He called upon all stakeholders to leverage the event to project Ladakh as a premier destination for winter sports, while ensuring active community participation and creating a lasting legacy of sports infrastructure and youth engagement in the Union Territory.
Among those present during the meeting were Deputy Director, PGF Upshi, Dr Tundup Namgail and Assistant Director, Information Leh, Rigzin Yangdol.