Early Times Report
Srinagar, Feb 20: The Chinar Open Winter Games 2026, a flagship initiative of the Indian Army, concluded successfully amidst the breath-taking snow-clad landscapes of Gulmarg on 20 February 2026. Organised under the aegis of Dagger Division of Chinar Corps, the event was a vibrant celebration of sportsmanship, community spirit and youth empowerment.
The Games provided a versatile platform for the youth of Kashmir to showcase their talents and channelise their energy into competitive and constructive pursuits. This edition witnessed record-breaking participation, with a total of 660 participants competing across eight events. Among them were 166 girls and 494 boys, reflecting the growing enthusiasm for winter sports across the region and the steady rise in women participation.
The event featured an exhilarating line up of winter sports competitions, ranging from high adrenaline skiing races and thrilling snowboarding events to graceful skating performances. Participants tested their abilities against some of the region’s finest athletes, drawing large and enthusiastic crowds of locals, tourists and sports enthusiasts.
Highlight of the event was visit of Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, SYSM, PVSM, AVSM, SM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command, who graced the occasion and interacted with participants, organisers and members of the local community. He lauded the exceptional organisation of the Games and commended the high standard of sportsmanship displayed by the young athletes. He appreciated the initiative as a meaningful endeavour to channelise the aspirations of Kashmir’s youth towards constructive Nation building activities and reaffirmed the Army’s steadfast commitment to fostering peace, progress and opportunity through sports.
Beyond the excitement of the competitions, the Games reinforced the Indian Army’s enduring bond with the people. These initiatives highlighted Indian Army’s contribution towards promoting sports, nurturing young talent and developing Gulmarg as a premier winter sports destination.
As the curtains fell on this successful edition of the Chinar Open Winter Games, the event stood as a testament to Kashmir’s rising sporting culture and growing prominence of Gulmarg as a hub of winter sports in India. |
