The highly-anticipated Khelo India Winter Games 2025 commenced at the Nawang Dorjay Stobdan Sports Complex in Leh on Thursday.
This is the second time Khelo India has been organized in Ladakh.
Nineteen teams, comprising states, Union Territories and institutional outfits, will compete over five days in two events – ice hockey and ice skating.
The second part, featuring snow games like skiing, will be hosted by Jammu & Kashmir from February 22-25.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended best wishes to all the athletes participating in the 5th Khelo India Winter Games 2025.
Best wishes to all the athletes participating in the 5th Khelo India Winter Games 2025! I am sure this tournament will encourage upcoming talent. May the games also be a celebration of sportsman spirit.@kheloindia pic.twitter.com/1bUx7SqKv8
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 23, 2025
PM Modi in a post on X wrote: “Best wishes to all the athletes participating in the 5th Khelo India Winter Games 2025! I am sure this tournament will encourage upcoming talent. May the games also be a celebration of sportsman spirit.”
The Khelo India Winter Games 2025 will witness the participation of approximately 600 athletes competing in various winter sports events across Leh.
The KIWG 2025 sporting events started with ice hockey matches at the NDS complex and the Ladakh Scouts Regimental Centre.
Several dignitaries, including Lt. Governor of Ladakh Brigadier Dr. BD Mishra, were present in the opening ceremony.
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The Governor said, “Ice hockey is now the official game of the Union Territory of Ladakh. Our men’s ice hockey team has proudly represented India in China, and we will ensure the selection of the best players to represent Ladakh in future competitions.”
Apart from identifying talent, the Khelo India Winter Games aims to showcase a region’s art, culture, heritage, and promote tourism through sports.
