The 5th Khelo India Winter Games 2025 concluded on a high note in the scenic Union Territory of Ladakh, with the region emerging as the overall champion. The event, held amidst the majestic Himalayan backdrop, showcased the growing popularity of winter sports in India and brought together athletes from across the nation to compete in various disciplines.
Ladakh Tops the Medal Tally
Union Territory Ladakh finished as the overall winner of the Khelo India Winter Games 2025, bagging an impressive seven medals, including four golds, to claim the top spot. The region’s performance was a testament to its athletes’ mastery of winter sports, with many competitors leveraging their familiarity with snowy terrains to dominate the events.
Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra Shine
- Tamil Nadu secured second place with a total of five medals, including three golds, showcasing the southern state’s commitment to expanding its sporting talent into winter disciplines.
- Maharashtra won the maximum number of medals—10 in total, including two golds—but finished third in the overall rankings due to their lower gold count.
This healthy competition between regions reflects the growing diversity in winter sports talent across India, with athletes from non-traditional areas making significant strides.
Over 400 Athletes Participate in KIWG 2025
The 5th Khelo India Winter Games witnessed participation from over 400 athletes representing various states and Union Territories. The games served as a platform for budding athletes to showcase their skills and for seasoned competitors to fine-tune their performances on a national stage.
Highlights of Khelo India Winter Games 2025
- Wide Range of Events
The competition featured a diverse array of winter sports, including:- Alpine skiing
- Snowboarding
- Ice hockey
- Figure skating
- Nordic skiing
- Focus on Infrastructure and Training
The event also emphasized the importance of investing in winter sports infrastructure and training facilities. Ladakh’s natural advantages, combined with recent government initiatives to promote the region as a hub for winter sports, were key to the success of the games. - Community Engagement
Local communities played an active role in hosting the games, providing logistical support and creating a vibrant atmosphere that celebrated the region’s culture and natural beauty.
Government’s Role in Promoting Winter Sports
The Khelo India Winter Games, a flagship initiative under the Khelo India program, aim to identify and nurture talent in winter sports. The 2025 edition saw a concerted effort by the government to promote winter sports as a viable career option for young athletes.
Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur emphasized the importance of the games, stating, “The Khelo India Winter Games provide a platform for young athletes to excel in winter sports and pave the way for India to emerge as a global contender in these disciplines.”
Ladakh: A Winter Sports Destination
Hosting the Khelo India Winter Games has further cemented Ladakh’s position as India’s premier winter sports destination. The region’s snow-covered landscapes and high-altitude terrain offer the perfect setting for sports like skiing, snowboarding, and ice hockey.
The success of the 5th Khelo India Winter Games 2025 signals a bright future for winter sports in India. The event not only provided an opportunity for athletes to compete but also inspired young sports enthusiasts across the country to take up winter disciplines.
With India aiming to increase its presence in international winter sports events, such as the Winter Olympics, initiatives like Khelo India Winter Games will play a crucial role in building a strong talent pool.
Final Medal Tally Highlights
| Rank | State/UT | Gold | Silver | Bronze | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ladakh | 4 | 2 | 1 | 7 |
| 2 | Tamil Nadu | 3 | 1 | 1 | 5 |
| 3 | Maharashtra | 2 | 5 | 3 | 10 |
The 5th Khelo India Winter Games 2025 in Ladakh not only celebrated the spirit of sportsmanship but also showcased the potential of India’s winter sports athletes. As Ladakh, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra shone brightly on the medal tally, the event marked a major step forward in India’s journey toward becoming a winter sports powerhouse.