Ladakh set to host 4th Khelo India Winter Games from February 2 to 6

By Reach Ladakh Correspondent Leh, Jan 31, 2024
Leh :

Lieutenant Governor Brigadier (Dr) BD Mishra (Retd) unveiled the mascot 'Sheen-e-She (Shan)' for the 4th Khelo India Winter Games at the Lieutenant Governor’s Secretariat on January 30. Simultaneously, Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, inaugurated the logo of the Khelo India Winter Games.

Scheduled to take place in Ladakh from February 2 to 6, the 4th Khelo India Winter Games will feature two main events: ice hockey and speed ice skating. The designated venues for the Khelo India Winter Games 2024 include the NDS Sports Stadium, Guphuks Pond, and Ladakh Scout Regimental Centre (LSRC) rink. 

Emphasizing that the Khelo India Winter Games marks a significant first for the Union Territory of Ladakh, Lieutenant Governor BD Mishra referred to Ladakh as the ideal venue due to its cold climate, altitude, and unique geographical conditions. He expressed a commitment to enhancing facilities for participants and commended the athletes for their dedication, resilience, and sportsmanship. The Lieutenant Governor also underscored the symbolism of Shanti Stupa and the turning Wheel of Dharma in the Khelo India Winter Games logo, conveying the message of spreading the light of truth to humanity.

Highlighting the importance of supporting participants by providing necessary assistance and sports equipment, the Lieutenant Governor expressed optimism in achieving this goal through the collaborative efforts of the Jammu and Kashmir Administration, Ladakh Administration, and the Government of India.

Describing Winter Games as synonymous with Jammu and Kashmir, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha envisioned Ladakh becoming synonymous with Winter Games as well. He applauded the progress made by sports in India and the achievements of athletes that have brought laurels to the nation.

Sujata Chaturvedi, Secretary Sports, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, shared that the 4th edition of the Khelo India Winter Games would involve 705 athletes from across India. Among them, 344 athletes will participate in ice hockey and speed ice skating events in Ladakh. She also highlighted the distinctive features of the Khelo India Winter Games logo and mascot, Sheen-e-She (Shan).

The event featured the screening of the Khelo India video and anthem.