The Curling Federation of India (CFI) proudly witnessed a defining moment in the journey of Indian winter sports with the successful organization of the 1st President’s Challenge Cup in Kargil, Ladakh, held as an integral component of the prestigious 5th LG Cup. This landmark initiative represents a significant step toward expanding the footprint of curling in high-altitude regions of India and nurturing future Olympic aspirations.
The historic encounter was conducted under the mediation of P. N. Raju, an international curling athlete and Chair of the Athletes’ Committee of the Curling Federation of India. His presence ensured adherence to international sporting standards while inspiring local athletes through first-hand global experience.
Visionary Leadership and Institutional Support
The initiative, spearheaded by Dr. Rashmi Saluja, President of the Curling Federation of India, received encouraging and gracious support from the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Shri Kavinder Gupta and Mr. Moses Kunzang, Secretary (Sports), Ladakh. Their collective encouragement underscores the shared vision of positioning Ladakh as a future hub for curling in India.
With its natural climatic conditions, prolonged winters, and high-altitude geography, Ladakh holds immense potential to emerge as a training and performance center capable of producing world-class curlers and future Olympians for the nation.
Strong Administrative Endorsement for Winter Sports Development in Ladakh
Addressing the gathering, the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, reaffirmed that the Union Territory Administration is firmly committed to developing Ladakh as a major centre for winter sports. He emphasized that sports such as the curling will play a vital role in identifying regional strengths, encouraging youth participation, and positioning Ladakh prominently on India’s winter sports map.
In his address, the Secretary (Sports), Ladakh, Moses Kunzang, highlighted that curling holds immense potential as a Winter Olympic sport for India. He noted that with structured development, athlete-centric policies, and sustained institutional support, curling could emerge as a discipline capable of bringing international recognition and medals for the country.
The match was also graced by the presence of the Chief Executive Councillor, LAHDC Kargil, Mohd Jaffer Akhoon, reflecting strong local governance support for sporting development in the region.
Among other distinguished dignitaries present on the occasion were Executive Councillor, LAHDC Kargil, Kacho Mohd Feroz; General Officer Commanding, 8 Mountain Division, K. Mahesh; Administrative Secretary, UT Ladakh, Shri Moses Kunzang; Superintendent of Police, Kargil, Nitin Yadav; along with senior civil and Indian Army officers.
Their collective presence and encouragement underscored a shared vision—leveraging Ladakh’s unique geography and climate to build a robust winter sports ecosystem, with curling as a flagship discipline contributing to India’s long-term Olympic aspirations.
Enthusiastic Public Participation and Growing Popular Interest
The President’s Challenge Cup also witnessed overwhelming public participation, with an estimated 3,000–4,000 spectators gathering to witness the historic curling match. The enthusiastic cheers and sustained encouragement from the local audience reflected a growing curiosity and acceptance of curling as an emerging winter sport in the region. Such vibrant spectator engagement is a strong indicator of the sport’s future potential in Ladakh.
Complementing the competitive fixture, a curling exhibition was also organized during the Cup to familiarize the public, youth, and aspiring athletes with the rules, techniques, and strategic aspects of the game. The exhibition generated considerable excitement and interaction, further strengthening grassroots awareness and enthusiasm for curling.
This strong public response reaffirmed the Curling Federation of India’s belief that with sustained exposure, institutional support, and athlete-focused development, curling can take deep roots in Ladakh and inspire a new generation of Indian winter sport athletes.
A Match That Made History
The President’s Challenge Cup witnessed a competitive and spirited match between the Jammu & Kashmir Curling Team and the Ladakh Curling Team. Demonstrating remarkable skill and composure, the Ladakh team secured a convincing victory with a final score of 8–2, marking a proud moment for local sport in the region.
On this occasion, Mr. P. N. Raju highlighted the historical significance of the event, noting that this was the first-ever 8 end curling match played in India, a milestone that will be remembered as the beginning of a new chapter for the sport in Ladakh.
Addressing athletes, officials, and local stakeholders, Dr. Rashmi Saluja reaffirmed the Federation’s unwavering commitment to athlete-centric development. She emphasized that CFI’s strategic initiatives are designed to create pathways that favor athletes, strengthen grassroots participation, and ultimately enable India to emerge as a competitive force in international curling, including the Olympic arena.
Mr. Asgar Ali, President – Curling Association of UT Ladakh and Mr. Showkat Rasool, Secretary General of J&K Curling Association thanked the president for taking up this initiative for the promotion of the sport.
The successful organisation of the 1st President’s Challenge Cup stands as a testament to collaborative leadership, institutional support, and the indomitable spirit of sport. The Curling Federation of India remains committed to working closely with regional administrations and athletes to ensure that Ladakh’s immense potential is transformed into sustained sporting excellence for India.
Curling Federation of India continues to move forward with humility, purpose, and a resolute focus on empowering athletes and building India’s future in winter sports.
