Kargil, Jan 17: Calling ice hockey “a way of life in Ladakh”, Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta today said the region is poised to rise as the country’s foremost winter sports centre, powered by its climate, terrain and determined youth.
He made the remarks while addressing the closing ceremony of the 5th LG Cup Ice Hockey Championship 2026 in Kargil, where the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) clinched both the men’s and women’s titles.
The Lt Governor underlined the vast potential of ice hockey and other winter disciplines in Ladakh, stating that the region’s unique climate, geography and resilient youth provide a natural advantage to emerge as a premier hub for winter sports.
In the men’s final, ITBP defeated Ladakh Scouts 2–1 in a closely contested match. In the women’s category, the ITBP team beat LWIHF with an impressive 7–3 scoreline. The championship saw enthusiastic participation from 10 men’s teams and 5 women’s teams, turning the event into a vibrant celebration of winter sport.
The Lt Governor said ice hockey in Ladakh is not merely a sport but an integral part of the region’s lifestyle and identity, shaped by its harsh climate and challenging terrain. He praised the grit of Ladakhi youth, noting that despite limited resources and difficult conditions, they have turned challenges into strength.
Highlighting the Government of India’s vision under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said sports are now being promoted as a medium for career development, youth empowerment and nation-building. Initiatives such as Khelo India, he added, are giving national exposure to athletes from remote and border areas, including Ladakh.
The Lt Governor also announced that Ladakh will host the 6th Khelo India Winter Games from January 20 at the new international-standard Indoor Ice Hockey Rink in Leh. Constructed at a cost of around ₹51 crore, the facility features a fully automated chilling plant, modern spectator amenities and provisions for year-round training and competitions.
He said nearly 500 athletes from across the country will participate in the upcoming games, describing the event as a proud moment for Ladakh. He urged the administration and the people to ensure that players, coaches and officials experience Ladakh’s warm hospitality, vibrant sporting culture and breathtaking landscape so that they return as ambassadors of Ladakh.
Referring to the recently implemented Ladakh Sports Policy 2025, the Lt Governor said the policy aims to strengthen sports development through systematic talent identification, equal opportunities for women and para-athletes, scholarships, incentives, modern infrastructure and Centres of Excellence — with the goal of helping Ladakhi athletes excel at national and international platforms.
Addressing the young athletes present, he urged them to see sports as a path to building discipline, confidence and life skills. He assured them of full support from the administration, saying their achievements would fuel continued efforts to lift Ladakh’s sporting ecosystem.
Congratulating the winning and runner-up teams, the Lt Governor applauded all participating players for their discipline, dedication and sportsmanship. He said the true spirit of sport lies not only in winning medals but in building character, confidence and team spirit.
He also commended the District Administration Kargil, the Sports Department, the organising committee, volunteers, security forces and local residents for the successful conduct of the championship, before formally declaring the 5th LG Cup Ice Hockey Championship 2026 closed.
Later, the Lt Governor felicitated the champion ITBP men’s and women’s teams and presented trophies, along with awards to players and officials.
In his address, Chairman/Chief Executive Councillor, LAHDC Kargil, Dr Mohammad Jaffer Akhoon, appreciated the Department of Youth Services and Sports for organising the tournament professionally and requested the Lieutenant Governor to consider continuation of the CEC Ice Hockey Cup through budgetary support. He also called for administrative approval for the proposed multi-storey parking facility, saying improved infrastructure is essential for hosting major events and accommodating spectators.
Administrative Secretary, Youth Services and Sports, Shri Moses Kunzang, in his welcome address, emphasised the growing stature of the LG Cup Ice Hockey Championship and appreciated the support extended by the Curling Federation of India (CFI) for the promotion of winter sports in Ladakh.
As part of the programme, friendly demonstration matches of ice skating and ice curling were also held, showcasing the expanding scope of winter sports in the region.
Among others present were Executive Councillors and Councillors of LAHDC Kargil, SSP Kargil Nitin Yadav, ADC Kargil Imteeaz Kacho, Director School Education Tsering Paldan, Joint Director YSS Tahir Hussain, officials of the Curling Federation of India and senior officers from different departments.
