In a landmark development for winter sports, the snow-laden and picturesque destination of Sonamarg hosted its inaugural skiing training course here today. The programme was inaugurated by Minister for FCS&CA, Transport, Youth Services and Sports, Satish Sharma.
This pioneering initiative has introduced skiing to schoolboys from various educational institutions across the Kashmir division. In his address, Satish Sharma extolled the natural allure of Sonamarg, describing it as a magnificent locale ripe for introduction of winter sports.
He emphasized that exploring such opportunities in hitherto uncharted areas would not only enrich the local cultural tapestry but also bolster tourism. The Minister expressed his commitment towards ensuring that aspiring athletes receive skiing training that meets international standards and is delivered with a highly professional approach.
Satish Sharma heralded the inauguration of the skiing course as an auspicious beginning, envisaging it as a launchpad for transforming Sonamarg into a premier winter destination. He remarked that, in alignment with the directives of Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, the Department is earnestly committed towards nurturing winter sports activities in Sonamarg.
He assured that the Government would invest in state-of-the-art infrastructure to elevate Sonamarg’s status to the next level. The Minister laid emphasis that the Sports Department and District Administration Ganderbal will work out the modalities for creating sports infrastructure in Sonamarg.
He further emphasised that this event shall be made an annual feature and organised every year in the month of February. Acknowledging the role of sports in youth development, Satish Sharma underscored its importance in combating drug abuse and enhancing mental health.
He also announced that a Winter Carnival will soon be held in Sonamarg, featuring cultural programs and various winter sports activities to showcase the breathtaking winter charm of Sonamarg. District Development Commissioner Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore, in his address, underscored the significance of introducing training in a globally renowned sport such as skiing.
He expressed optimism that this initiative would act as a catalyst for boosting winter tourism in the area, thereby offering a transformative opportunity for the local community. Director General YS&S, Rajinder Singh Tara, while welcoming the distinguished guests, reiterated that the initiative to conduct skiing training at Sonamarg is the brainchild of the Chief Minister of J&K.
He urged the Minister to support efforts in developing the necessary infrastructure, thereby ensuring that such programmes become a regular feature in Sonamarg, similar to the well-established model in Gulmarg.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by the Joint Director Kashmir of YS&S. Adding to the cultural richness of the ceremony, local folk singer Anjum Mujhtar mesmerised the audience with a captivating Gojri song, which was met with enthusiastic applause.
Additionally, engaging snow-based activities were organised by the Department of YS&S employees. ADC Ganderbal, Gulzar Ahmed and other officers and officials were present on the occasion.