Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday inaugurated the snow sports event of the 4th Khelo India Games at the renowned ski resort, Gulmarg.
The event witnessed the esteemed presence of Nisith Pramanik, Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports and Home Affairs, adding to the grandeur of the occasion.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the event, Lt Governor Sinha extended his best wishes to athletes from across the country participating in various winter sports disciplines. He remarked, “It is a momentous occasion for more than 600 athletes who have been preparing tirelessly for this spectacular event.”
Inviting athletes, team officials, and sports enthusiasts to relish the warm hospitality of Jammu Kashmir, Lt Governor Sinha encouraged them to partake in the Alpine Ski, Nordic Ski, and snow Mountaineering competitions. He added, “I invite you to enjoy the incredible sights and cuisine of the paradise on earth.”
“The 4th Khelo India Winter Games, over the next 4 days, will celebrate the hard work, skills, dedication, and sporting excellence on the ski slope, renewing the spirit of brotherhood, peace, and harmony among all the teams,” affirmed the Lt Governor. Highlighting the government’s efforts to foster a robust sports culture, Lt Governor Sinha praised the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in ushering a new era of sports in Jammu Kashmir. He said, “Under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, a new era of sports has emerged in Jammu Kashmir.”
“Our talented sportspersons have showcased their mettle in national and international sports events, inspiring budding athletes to bring laurels to the UT and the nation,” he added. Expressing gratitude to the Government of India, Union Sports Ministry, and Sports Authority of India, Lt Governor Sinha highlighted the development of national and international level sports infrastructure in Jammu Kashmir under the Prime Minister’s Development Package (PMDP).
Union Minister for Information & Broadcasting and Youth Affairs & Sports, Anurag Singh Thakur, extended his best wishes for the successful conduct of the Khelo India Winter Games event through a video message, encouraging participating athletes to give their best in the tournament. Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports and Home Affairs, Nisith Pramanik, lauded the UT Administration led by Lt Governor Sinha for developing sports infrastructure at the grassroots level, setting a benchmark for other states as well. The inaugural ceremony, attended by dignitaries, senior officials, and sports enthusiasts in large numbers, marked the commencement of a thrilling and spirited sporting extravaganza at Gulmarg, epitomizing the spirit of unity, athleticism, and sportsmanship.