Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has called for artificial snow generation in Gulmarg to protect winter sports and enhance tourism. He made the remarks during the launch of the Khelo India Winter Games 2026. The initiative aims to position Gulmarg as a global ski destination.
On February 23, 2026, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah addressed the need for artificial snow in Gulmarg, a popular ski resort in the region. Speaking at the commencement of the Khelo India Winter Games 2026, Abdullah emphasized the urgency of this measure to sustain winter sports amid changing climate conditions.
Gulmarg, known for its natural snow cover, faces challenges that threaten its appeal as a winter sports hub. Abdullah highlighted how artificial snow could safeguard these activities and bolster tourism, which is vital for the local economy. The Khelo India initiative, a national program to promote sports, launched its winter games edition in the area, drawing attention to infrastructure improvements.
The chief minister's statement underscores efforts to make Gulmarg a competitive global destination for skiing and related events. Keywords associated with the address include artificial snow, winter sports tourism sustainability, and the games launch. No specific timelines for implementation were detailed in the reports.