Kargil, Feb 19: Declaring that Ladakh is steadily positioning itself as a winter sports centre, Member of Parliament from Ladakh, Mohmad Haneefa Jan, on Wednesday assured full support to strengthen ice hockey infrastructure and address the demands raised by the Ice Hockey Association Kargil.
The MP made these remarks while addressing the gathering at the concluding ceremony of the 17th CEC Ice Hockey Championship 2026 at the Ice Hockey Rink, Biamathang, where Drass Warriors outclassed Shakar Chiktan Red 3–0 to claim the men’s championship title.
Kacho Mohd Feroz, Executive Councilor, Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council Kargil, attended as Guest of Honour, while Additional Deputy Commissioner Kargil Imteeaz Kacho was present as Special Guest. Senior district officers, including Chief Horticulture Officer Raza Ali, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Liyaqat Ali Khan, District Youth Services and Sports Officer Abid Ali, and other officials from the Youth Services and Sports Department, were also in attendance alongside players and spectators.
In a high-tempo final played amid challenging weather conditions due to rising temperatures, Drass Warriors maintained tactical discipline and attacking momentum to register a convincing three-goal victory. Shakar Chiktan Red struggled to break through the defensive line, allowing Drass Warriors to dominate the contest from start to finish.
In the women’s category, Kargil Women Ice Hockey Foundation secured the championship, while Ice Hockey Association (Women) finished as runners-up.
In his address, MP Mohmad Haneefa Jan emphasised that focused efforts by the Union Territory Administration and the Hill Councils of both districts are steadily expanding sports infrastructure across Ladakh. He said winter sports, particularly ice hockey, hold immense promise for youth engagement and national-level representation.
Referring to a memorandum submitted by the President of the Ice Hockey Association Kargil, the MP assured that the issues highlighted would be examined and taken up with the concerned authorities for appropriate action.
The championship was organised by the Youth Services and Sports Department, Kargil, in collaboration with the Ice Hockey Association Kargil, under the supervision of Deputy Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer, LAHDC Kargil, Rakesh Kumar (IAS).
A total of 29 men’s teams and four women’s teams from across Kargil district participated in the tournament, underlining the growing reach of ice hockey in the region.
During the prize distribution ceremony, trophies were presented to Drass Warriors (Men) and Kargil Women Ice Hockey Foundation, while Shakar Chiktan Red (Men) and Ice Hockey Association (Women) were awarded runner-up honours. Volunteers and technical officials were also felicitated for ensuring the smooth conduct of the championship despite weather-related constraints.
The 17th CEC Ice Hockey Championship concluded with strong public participation and renewed focus on expanding winter sports opportunities for the youth of Kargil and Ladakh.
