Excelsior Sports Correspondent
KARGIL, Jan 16: The 5th LG Cup Ice Hockey Championship 2026 concluded here today, with Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Kavinder Gupta underscoring the immense potential of Ice Hockey and other winter sports in the region. Addressing the closing ceremony, he praised the resilience of Ladakhi youth and said the region’s unique climate and geography provide a natural advantage to emerge as a premier winter sports hub.
In the men’s final, ITBP defeated Ladakh Scouts by 2–1 in a tightly contested match, while the women’s final saw ITBP Women’s Team triumph over LWIHF by 7–3. The Championship witnessed enthusiastic participation from 10 men’s and 5 women’s teams, showcasing remarkable skill, discipline, and sportsmanship.
The Lt Governor lauded the determination of Ladakhi athletes, noting that Ice Hockey has become an integral part of the region’s lifestyle and identity. He highlighted initiatives like Khelo India, which provide national platforms for youth from remote and border areas, and shared details of the upcoming 6th Khelo India Winter Games, beginning January 20 in Leh. The state-of-the-art Indoor Ice Hockey Rink, constructed at a cost of around Rs 51 crore, will host nearly 500 players and offers modern amenities for year-round training and competitions.
He also emphasized the recently implemented Ladakh Sports Policy 2025, aimed at systematic talent identification, women and para-athlete empowerment, scholarships, incentives, and creation of Centres of Excellence.
In his address, Chairman/Chief Executive Councillor, LAHDC Kargil, Dr. Mohammad Jaffer Akhoon, appreciated the Department of Youth Services and Sports for organising the tournament in a professional manner and requested the Lieutenant Governor to consider the continuation of the CEC Ice Hockey Cup by allocating budget. He also highlighted the importance of obtaining administrative approvals for the proposed multi-car parking project, stating that improved infrastructure is essential for hosting major sporting events and accommodating spectators.
Administrative Secretary, Youth Services and Sports, Moses Kunzang, in his welcome address, emphasised the growing significance of the LG Cup Ice Hockey Championship and appreciated the support extended by the Curling Federation of India (CFI) towards the promotion of winter sports in Ladakh.
Among those present during the event were Executive Councillors, Councillors from LAHDC Kargil; SSP Kargil Nitin Yadav, ADC Kargil Imteeaz Kacho, Director, School Education, Tsering Paldan; Joint Director, YSS, Tahir Hussain; officials from YSS, Curling Federation of India and other senior officials.
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