Kargil, January 15:
A high-level delegation of the Curling Federation of India (CFI), led by Dr. Rashmi Saluja, President of CFI, called on the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, in Kargil to discuss the promotion and development of curling in the region.
The meeting was attended by Nitin Yadav, SSP Kargil; Imteeaz Kacho, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Kargil; P. M. Raju, Chair, Athletes Committee, CFI; Shubham Gupta, Chief Operating Officer, CFI; Asgar Ali, President, Ladakh Curling Association; Showkat Rasool, Secretary General, Jammu & Kashmir Curling Association; along with members of the Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir curling teams.
During the interaction, the CFI delegation presented a comprehensive overview of curling, underlining its stature as a Winter Olympic sport and its steady global growth. A live demonstration of the sport was conducted, highlighting its historical significance and the strong potential for curling to emerge as a mainstream winter sport in Ladakh, given the region’s natural climatic advantages.
The delegation emphasised the inclusive nature of curling, noting that the sport is accessible to men, women, and persons with disabilities alike. They also showcased curling equipment and apprised the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of the challenges associated with procuring specialised curling stones in the region. The Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor expressed keen interest and enthusiasm, and conveyed his support for the showcase of Curling during the 5th LG Cup in Kargil on 16th January 2026, followed by an exhibition match after the ceremony.
Responding positively, the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor reiterated that curling has already been incorporated into Ladakh’s sports policy and assured that sustained institutional support would be extended to enable Ladakhi athletes to participate in national and international curling competitions.
The meeting reflected a shared commitment to nurturing winter sports in Ladakh and strengthening opportunities for young athletes from the region on national and global platforms.
