There is a significant ice hockey revolution happening in India, spearheaded by Ladakh Scouts, a specialized mountain infantry regiment of the Indian Army. As the country marks its 77th Republic Day, the exemplary work of Ladakh Scouts in the realm of ice hockey is being highlighted. The ongoing sixth edition of the 2026 Khelo India Winter Games in Leh showcases ice hockey and ice skating, with the Army’s Ladakh Scouts excelling in the competition.
Beyond their victories in the Khelo India Winter Games, Ladakh Scouts are focused on promoting ice hockey throughout India. Originating in the late 1970s, the Ladakh Scouts initially played ice hockey for fun without proper equipment. However, their dedication to the sport grew in the late 1980s when they began creating natural ice rinks and investing in expensive gear.
Currently, India only has two Olympic-size artificial ice rinks, located in Dehradun and Leh. Captain Parth Jagtap, part of the Army team competing in the 2026 KIWG, emphasizes the need for more ice rinks across the country to popularize the sport. He also acknowledges the role of Khelo India in raising awareness about ice hockey and its requirements for becoming a mainstream sport in India.
The construction of ice rinks in India is a costly endeavor, with basic rinks costing up to Rs 15 crore and indoor stadiums accommodating 5,000 spectators reaching Rs 40-50 crore. Corporate support is crucial for the expansion of ice hockey beyond Leh. Ladakh Scouts have proposed involving corporate entities like Reliance, Adani, and Tata to transform the ice hockey landscape in India, aiming for nationwide popularity.
