Khelo India Winter Games 2026 to begin today in Leh

Kargil, Jan 19: The 6th edition of the Khelo India Winter Games is set to begin on January 20 in Leh, Ladakh, bringing together athletes from across the country to compete in a range of winter sports disciplines. Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, on Monday visited key venues to review arrangements and directed officials to ensure world-class facilities and seamless conduct of the national-level event.

The event is expected to promote winter sports, encourage youth participation, and provide national-level exposure to athletes in snow and ice sports.

The Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, recently reviewed ongoing preparations for the 6th edition of Khelo India Winter Games, scheduled from January 20 to 26.

Around 500 athletes from across the country, plus 100 technical staff, are expected to participate in the event, he further informed.

Officials from the Department informed that all necessary arrangements, including accommodation, transportation, medical facilities, and sporting venues, have been put in place to ensure the smooth and successful conduct of the Games.

Upon their arrival in Leh, players were welcomed with traditional scarves and customary local greetings, creating an atmosphere of enthusiasm and camaraderie.

The Lt Governor Ladakh Kavinder Gupta Monday Visited NDS Ice Hockey Stadium, Guphuks Pond and LSRC venue to review arrangements for #6thKheloIndiaWinterGames Starting January 20.

LG Kavinder emphasised zero compromise on quality to provide world-class facilities to the participants. Describing the Games as a marquee national event, he directed aggressive media promotion to showcase Ladakh globally. “The opening ceremony must be vibrant, celebrating Ladakh’s rich cultural heritage,” he instructed, urging departments to coordinate for flawless conduct.

The Lt Governor further highlighted that the Khelo India Winter Games present a unique opportunity to promote sports culture and winter tourism in Ladakh.