JAN : 7 In a significant step towards promoting winter sports and adventure tourism, the Chief Minister today virtually inaugurated a 14-day Integrated Ski Training Course covering the renowned destinations of Gulmarg, Sonmarg and Doodhpathri. The initiative aims to position these scenic locations firmly on the skiing map while nurturing young talent and strengthening Jammu and Kashmir’s reputation as a premier winter sports destination.
The integrated training programme has been designed to provide structured, certified skiing training to children and adolescents in the age group of 12 to 18 years. During the current year, the programme is expected to train between 500 and 600 students, offering them professional exposure to skiing under qualified instructors. The initiative is being seen as a major investment in grassroots sports development, with a special focus on winter sports that naturally align with the region’s geography and climate.
While inaugurating the programme, the Chief Minister highlighted the immense potential of Jammu and Kashmir in winter sports and adventure tourism. He said that destinations like Gulmarg, Sonmarg and Doodhpathri possess world-class natural slopes and snow conditions, which, if supported with systematic training and infrastructure, can produce national and international-level athletes. The programme, he added, would also help generate employment opportunities and encourage local youth to take up sports as a viable career option.
Gulmarg has long been recognised as India’s leading skiing destination, attracting domestic and international tourists alike. By extending the training programme to Sonmarg and Doodhpathri, the government aims to diversify winter tourism hubs and reduce pressure on a single location. This integrated approach is expected to bring balanced development, improve tourism footfall across regions and create new opportunities for local communities.
Officials associated with the programme informed that participants will receive both theoretical and practical training, including basics of skiing, safety protocols, use of equipment and techniques suitable for different terrains. Successful trainees will be awarded certificates, which can serve as a foundation for advanced training and participation in competitive events at higher levels.
The initiative also aligns with the broader goal of promoting youth engagement, physical fitness and skill development. By targeting students in the 12–18 age group, the programme seeks to identify talent at an early stage and provide them with structured guidance. This approach not only helps in building sporting excellence but also encourages discipline, confidence and teamwork among young participants.
From a tourism perspective, the integrated ski training course is expected to add value to Jammu and Kashmir’s winter tourism offerings. Trained local skiers can eventually serve as instructors, guides and ambassadors for winter sports, enhancing visitor experience and promoting sustainable tourism. The initiative is also likely to support allied sectors such as hospitality, transport and equipment services during the winter season.
The virtual inauguration reflects the government’s continued focus on leveraging technology to reach wider audiences and implement programmes efficiently. The Chief Minister reiterated the administration’s commitment to developing sports infrastructure, promoting adventure tourism and creating pathways for youth to excel at national and international platforms.
Overall, the launch of the 14-day Integrated Ski Training Course marks a strategic move towards harnessing Jammu and Kashmir’s natural advantages, empowering youth and strengthening the region’s position as a leading winter sports destination. By combining sports development with tourism promotion, the initiative sets the stage for long-term socio-economic benefits and global recognition for the Union Territory
