SRINAGAR — More than 650 participants competed in eight events during the two-day Chinar Open Winter Games 2026, which concluded at Jammu and Kashmir’s renowned ski resort of Gulmarg on Friday.
A Srinagar-based defence spokesman said the Chinar Open Winter Games, a flagship initiative of the Indian Army organised under the aegis of the Dagger Division of Chinar Corps, concluded successfully amid Gulmarg’s snow-clad landscapes.
He said the event provided a platform for Kashmiri youth to showcase their talent and channel their energy into competitive and constructive pursuits.
This edition witnessed record participation, with 660 competitors including 166 girls and 494 boys taking part across eight events, reflecting growing enthusiasm for winter sports in the region and a steady rise in female participation.
The Games featured skiing, snowboarding and skating competitions, drawing large crowds of locals, tourists and sports enthusiasts.
General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command, Lt Gen Pratik Sharma attended the event and interacted with participants, organisers and members of the local community.
He lauded the organisation of the Games and praised the sportsmanship displayed by the young athletes, describing the initiative as a meaningful effort to channel youth aspirations towards constructive nation-building activities.
He also reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to fostering peace, progress and opportunity through sports. — (PTI)