Kashmir promotes winter sports in Gulmarg through skiing course

skiing.Gulmarg (Jammu and Kashmir), Jan 2 : The Indian Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering (IISM) at Gulmarg in Jammu and Kashmir''s Baramulla District has introduced skiing courses to provide an impetus to winter sports and to attract local youth to adventure sports.

The IISM began the skiing course on Tuesday and a large number of children thronged snow covered Gulmarg to participate.

Colonel J S Dhillon, the principal of IISM, said that the objective behind introducing such courses is to popularise skiing among the local children.

"The IISM is conducting various courses and is organizing activities with an aim to promote Gulmarg as a tourist destination. The other main aim is to popularise skiing sport among the local children. Last year also, we had trained at least 40 children, out of which we had selected five children to whom we have provided advanced training, who later became state champions," said Dhillon.

"This time also we have selected around 30 to 35 children from remote areas of Kashmir and we are providing them training. We will select few who are best and provide them advanced training for national and international championships," he added.

Tabish Ahmad, one of the trainees, said it was a great experience for them as they participated in the skiing course.

"I come here every year for skiing. Many courses are introduced in which I come to participate. The atmosphere is great and everyone comes here for skiing including domestic and international tourists. It is a great experience for us," said Ahmad.

Gulmarg, at present, provides a picture postcard look with snow-capped mountains, lush beautiful valleys and miniature cottages, which attract most people to this place. (ANI)