Khelo India Water Sports Festival Showcases India’s Spirit: Sports Minister Mandaviya

Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Thursday declared open the inaugural Khelo India Water Sports Festival (KIWSF) at Dal Lake, saying the event will project a “powerful picture of India” to the world.

In his video message, Mandaviya highlighted the significance of hosting such a national-level competition in Jammu and Kashmir, calling it a symbol of unity and enthusiasm under the banner of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat (One India, Great India).

“Today, when athletes step into Kashmir’s Dal Lake with zeal and enthusiasm to create history, the sight will not only thrill all sports lovers, but will also present to the world a powerful picture of India,” he said.

The festival began on a celebratory note with local shikarawalla Mohsin Ali winning the first gold medal of the three-day event, setting the tone for the competitions ahead.

The KIWSF brings together athletes from across the country to compete in multiple water sports disciplines, with 24 gold medals at stake. The event is expected to boost sports tourism in Kashmir while nurturing talent in water-based sports.