The sixth edition of the Khelo India Winter Games 2026 has brought the chill of excitement to the stunning landscapes of Leh, Ladakh. Kicking off on January 20, 2026, this premier winter sports event features a spectacular lineup of ice and snow disciplines, drawing over 700 athletes from across India to compete for 136 medals. Hosted at venues like the NDS Stadium, Guphuk Pond, and LSRC Army Rink in Leh, the first chapter focuses on ice sports such as ice hockey and ice skating, with the second chapter shifting to snow sports in Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir.
Captured live by Doordarshan Sports, the ice skating events at NDS Stadium have showcased incredible talent and determination amid the breathtaking Himalayan backdrop. Uploaded on January 21, 2026, the broadcast has already garnered over 12,000 views and 143 likes, highlighting the growing popularity of winter sports in India. This year’s games mark a significant milestone, with figure skating making its debut in Leh, adding a layer of artistic flair to the competitive ice.
Event Overview
Organized under the Khelo India Scheme by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, the Winter Games aim to nurture grassroots talent in winter disciplines. Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta inaugurated the event in Leh, emphasizing its role in promoting sports in high-altitude regions like Ladakh. With more than 1,200 participants, including athletes, support staff, officials, and volunteers, the games span from January 20 to 26 in Leh, before moving to Gulmarg in early February (dates pending snow conditions).
Ice skating events include speed skating and figure skating, with competitions in categories like novice and advanced for both men and women. The pristine ice rinks in Leh provide a challenging yet exhilarating environment, testing skaters’ precision, speed, and endurance against the cold.
Highlights from the Ice Skating Arena
Day 2 of the games delivered edge-of-your-seat action in figure skating. Haryana emerged as early leaders, clinching two gold medals in the discipline. Their dominance was evident in the novice and advanced categories, where athletes displayed flawless routines blending technical prowess and artistic expression.
Uttarakhand and Kerala each secured one gold, adding to the competitive diversity. Standout performances included intricate spins, jumps, and footwork that captivated spectators at the NDS Stadium.
While the live stream focused on the ongoing ice skating sessions, it also captured the vibrant atmosphere, with cheers echoing through the venue as skaters pushed their limits. For those who missed the action, highlights from Day 2 are available, showcasing the grace and grit of India’s budding winter sports stars.
Results and Medal Tally Update
As of the latest updates, Haryana tops the ice skating medal tally with two golds. Here’s a breakdown based on the official standings:
| State/Union Territory | Gold | Silver | Bronze | Total | Key Events |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Haryana | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | Figure Skating (Novice Women, Advanced Women presumed) |
| Uttarakhand | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | Figure Skating Novice Men |
| Kerala | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | Figure Skating Advanced Men |
| Ladakh | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2 | Ice Skating events |
| Andhra Pradesh | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | Figure Skating Advanced Women |
| Delhi | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 | Figure Skating Novice Men |
These results reflect the four decided figure skating events, with more competitions underway. The host, Ladakh, has shown strong form, securing a silver and bronze in ice skating, building on their success in ice hockey where the women’s team dominated Telangana 19-1.
Looking Ahead
The Khelo India Winter Games 2026 continue to inspire, fostering a new generation of athletes in sports often overlooked in warmer climates. As the ice skating events progress, expect more dazzling displays and potential upsets. Stay tuned for updates from Leh and the upcoming snow sports in Gulmarg, where ski mountaineering, alpine skiing, snowboarding, and Nordic skiing will take center stage.
Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or just love the thrill of winter competition, this event is a testament to India’s diverse sporting landscape.
