Waris Fayaz
Gulmarg, Feb 26 (KNO): Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya on Thursday said Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a shift in public narrative, with sports increasingly replacing security-related concerns, as the Gulmarg leg of the Khelo India Winter Games concluded.
Addressing athletes and officials, Mandaviya, per news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said the region, once associated with unrest, is now gaining recognition for sporting events and youth participation. He said newspapers that earlier focused on security challenges are now highlighting sports and development.
The minister linked the change to developments after the abrogation of Article 370, saying new opportunities and public confidence have emerged in Jammu and Kashmir. He said the region is contributing to a developed India through sports, tourism and youth engagement.
Calling Gulmarg one of the world’s finest winter destinations, Mandaviya said its geographical advantage and sporting potential make it ideal for winter sports. He expressed confidence that Gulmarg will develop into a world-class winter sports centre with improved infrastructure and regular events.
He said sports promote unity, discipline and constructive engagement for youth, adding that interactions with local athletes reflected growing enthusiasm and professionalism.
Mandaviya said the Khelo India Winter Games are helping build a winter sports ecosystem while strengthening Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism profile nationally and internationally.
He announced that future editions of the Winter Games will be extended from four days to nearly 15 days, with the addition of a Fit India carnival and related activities
