Excelsior Sports Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Feb 10: The Jawahar Institute of Mountaineering and Winter Sports (JIM & WS) is aiming to promote adventure tourism in Sonamarg following its successful impact on the adventure landscape at the world-renowned Gulmarg.
The first step taken in this regard by the JIM & WS is conducting skiing courses at Sonamarg, including a Basic Skiing Course with 69 students and an Intermediate Skiing Course with 23 students.
The Defence PRO here stated that both courses have attracted students from various parts of the country, including Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Bihar, Gujarat and Tripura.
“The courses are subsidized, with approximately 15% of the actual cost covered by various Government departments; 75% by MoD, 15% by MYAS, and 10% by the Jammu and Kashmir Government,” the PRO explained, highlighting the institute’s mission to expose youth to nature and instill a sense of adventure and nationalism.
The PRO also mentioned recent events hosted by JIM & WS in the Valley, such as the Lidderwat Trail Run on October 25, which saw 300 participants, including 100 girls from the valley, as well as the Unity Run on October 31 and the Ice Climbing Competition on January 28 in Pahalgam.
These events, the PRO said, were made possible through collaboration with the civil administration, particularly the Pahalgam Development Authority, and generous sponsors such as hotels and restaurants.
Furthermore, it was announced that starting from February 15, JIM & WS will commence a Special Skiing Course in Pahalgam, providing enthusiasts with the opportunity to refine their skills on the region’s pristine slopes.
Additionally, the institute will conduct a Special Basic Mountaineering Course and specially designed Adventure courses tailored for school children and NCC participants.
Established in 1983, JIM & WS is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Defence (GOI) and the Government of Jammu and Kashmir, known for its expertise in adventure activities.
Annually, the institute hosts nearly 1000 students from various parts of India, nurturing their talents and fostering a spirit of adventure and nation-building.
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