Leh, Ladakh: The dates for the Khelo India Winter Games 2025 have been announced on December 11 and UT Ladakh is set to host ice sports, including Ice Hockey and Ice Skating, from January 23 to 27, 2025.
The Khelo India Winter Games 2025 will take place in Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir in two different spells. Ladakh will host the ice events (ice hockey and ice skiing) from January 23 to 27 while Jammu & Kashmir will host the snow events (alpine skiing, Nordic skiing, ski mountaineering and snowboarding) from February 22 to 25.
Soumitra Bose, senior journalist, said, " While UT Ladakh deserves to host the ice games, it is Khelo India's mission to take sports to every possible corner in the country. Leh has the infrastructure and proved its merit when it hosted KIWG for the first time in February this year. There is a lot of scope for improvement because it's not about hosting an event it is about providing the athletes a proper platform to excel. The Guphuks Pond is an attractive skating venue but it needs work to get the best out of speed skaters. Ladakh administration must be mindful of giving the best infrastructure for athletes on and off the field. The enthusiasm among the friendly locals in February was palpable and Ladakh has the right attitude to host these Games”.
He continued, “KIWG also inspires athletes to take up winter sports and Ladakh's youngsters are already playing ice hockey at a good level. Some skaters also won medals and those are encouraging signs. Sports is also a good way to channel your energies and stay away from distractions like drugs. So it's upon the youngsters to grab the opportunities and shine because sports make you a star."