Khelo India Winter Games Inaugurated in Gulmarg; Dr Shahid Iqbal Choudhary Assumes Charge as Commissioner/ Secretary Youth Services & Sports

GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL 

SRINAGAR FEBRUARY 23:-Dr Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, IAS, on Sunday formally began his tenure as Commissioner/ Secretary, Youth Services & Sports, Jammu & Kashmir, marking his first day in office at the inauguration of the 6th Khelo India Winter Games in Gulmarg.

The national winter sporting extravaganza was inaugurated in the presence of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, alongside senior officials and sports personalities.

Sharing his experience, Dr Choudhary described the occasion as a “meaningful beginning,” stating that his first day commenced on the snow-covered slopes of Gulmarg, which has now hosted the Khelo India Winter Games for six consecutive years. He said the consistent hosting of the national event has firmly established Gulmarg as India’s winter sports capital.

This year’s edition witnessed participation of over 400 athletes representing 25 States and Union Territories, competing across various winter sports disciplines.

Highlighting the immense potential of the region, Dr Choudhary remarked that Jammu & Kashmir’s youth and sporting talent are extraordinary, adding that he looks forward to serving and learning from the sporting community.

The Khelo India Winter Games have emerged as a major platform for nurturing winter sports talent in the country, while also promoting Jammu & Kashmir as a premier destination for adventure and competitive winter sports.