The sixth edition of the Khelo India Winter Games (KIWG) commenced at the Nawang Dorjan Stobdan (NDS) Stadium in Leh. Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya emphasized the growing significance of winter sports in India’s competitive sports landscape. The Ladakh phase of the Games, featuring ice sports like skating and hockey, will run until January 26.
The opening ceremony, marked by traditional music and dance, included an exhibition ice hockey match between Army XI and UT Ladakh. Lt Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, officially inaugurated the Khelo India Winter Games 2026. The Games are divided into two legs, with the first leg in Leh and the snow events scheduled for Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir.
Dr. Mandaviya praised Ladakh for hosting the Winter Games and highlighted the region’s role in shaping India’s winter sports future. The Games aim to provide athletes with diverse terrains and conditions to enhance their competitive exposure. LG Kavinder Gupta acknowledged Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s support for sports promotion in Ladakh, emphasizing the importance of sports in national development.
In total, 1,060 participants, including 480 athletes, will compete across three venues in KIWG 2026. The event will feature figure skating, making its debut at the Games and showcasing India’s progress in the sport. The Games also reflect Ladakh’s commitment to sports development and align with PM Modi’s vision for promoting sports across the country.
