The Indian team is set to benefit from significant government support ahead of the highly anticipated ninth edition of the Asian Winter Games, which will take place in Harbin, China, from February 7 to 14. This marks a major turning point for winter sports in India, as the government has agreed to cover the travel expenses for athletes participating in key disciplines such as Alpine skiing, Nordic skiing, and snowboarding.
In previous editions of the Asian Winter Games, athletes had to make their own travel arrangements and bear the cost of their air tickets. This change in policy has been welcomed by the Indian players and coaches, as it eliminates a major financial hurdle. Ajay Bhatt, the skiing coach from Joshimath in Uttarakhand, expressed his satisfaction, stating, "It's good news that the government will support players bound for the ninth edition of the Asian Winter Games. In the past, athletes had to manage their travel costs independently."
Bhatt, who had previously coached the Indian team during the eighth edition of the Asian Winter Games in Japan, shared his personal experience. He had to pay for his own airfare to Japan, which he described as a challenge. He further emphasized the significance of the government's support, noting that this is the first time in India’s winter sports history that the national team will be able to train together at a collective national camp in Europe, a crucial step for improving performance.
The Asian Winter Games have historically seen smaller participation from India, with the country fielding fewer than 30 athletes in the past. However, with the government funding the travel expenses, a larger and more competitive contingent is expected to participate this time. This will also allow more athletes to gain valuable international exposure, which is vital for their development in winter sports.
The support comes at a critical time for winter sports in India, as Ski and Snowboard India, the governing body for winter sports in the country, was suspended by the International Ski Federation (FIS) in 2023 due to issues with governance and transparency. To address these concerns and streamline the administration of winter sports, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has formed a three-member Ad-hoc panel to oversee the sport’s operations. The panel’s chairman is Shiva Keshavan, a six-time Winter Games Olympian and recipient of the prestigious Arjuna Award, who is widely regarded as one of India’s most successful winter sports athletes.
The Indian team's participation in the Asian Winter Games, backed by government support, represents a new chapter for winter sports in the country. With better infrastructure, support, and international exposure, Indian athletes will be better equipped to compete at the highest level and make their mark in the world of winter sports.
