Leh, January 20, 2026
The sixth edition of the Khelo India Winter Games (KIWG) 2026 was officially inaugurated on January 20 in Leh, Ladakh, marking a positive moment for the Union Territory’s socio‑political and youth development landscape. The event, which brings together more than 1,000 athletes, coaches, and officials from across India, celebrates winter sports while strengthening national unity and community spirit in this high‑altitude region.
The opening ceremony was held at the Nawang Dorjan Stobdan (NDS) Stadium, with the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, presiding over the event. The Games feature ice hockey, ice skating, and newly added figure skating competitions—a significant step in expanding winter sport opportunities for athletes in challenging high‑altitude conditions.
Sports minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya encouraged participants to take full advantage of the platform, highlighting the significance of exposing India’s youth to national‑level competitive environments and fostering excellence. He reiterated the Government’s focus on youth engagement through sports, aligning with broader national priorities to promote fitness, talent development, and unity across regions.
The event also underscores Ladakh’s growing importance on the national sports map, offering local athletes a home‑ground advantage and inspiring future generations in a region that traditionally had limited exposure to organized competitive winter sports.
