Overview
- Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced the plans at the Gulmarg closing ceremony of the Khelo India Winter Games 2026.
- The National Centre of Excellence is an official commitment for Jammu and Kashmir with site, funding and timelines yet to be detailed.
- Future editions in Gulmarg are slated to run for 15 days with a Fit India carnival and cultural programmes alongside winter-sport competitions.
- The 2026 event drew more than 900 athletes from 25 states and union territories across six disciplines after a first phase in Ladakh.
- The Indian Army retained the overall title with 23 medals (9 gold, 6 silver, 8 bronze) as the minister praised local authorities and security forces for smooth conduct.