Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir’s ambitions to become a premier sporting destination are set to receive a major boost as Dal Lake hosts the inaugural Khelo India Water Sports Festival (KIWSF) from August 21-23, featuring six disciplines.
Over 400 athletes from 36 states and Union Territories will compete in three medal events — rowing, kayaking, and canoeing — as the Sports Ministry seeks to further promote athletic activities in the valley, following the success of Gulmarg in hosting five editions of the Khelo India Winter Games.
For decades, Dal Lake has been the heart of Kashmir tourism. With the launch of KIWSF, it is poised to become a hub for competitive water sports as well.
Jointly organized by the Sports Authority of India and the J&K Sports Council, the festival is the latest initiative aimed at providing new opportunities for athletes, coaches, and the broader sports ecosystem.
“This is not just an event; it marks the beginning of a new era for water sports in India. On behalf of all athletes, I sincerely thank Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, and the entire Khelo India team for prioritizing water sports and giving it the recognition it deserves,” said Bilquis Mir, an Olympic judge and a renowned figure in canoeing and kayaking.
The inaugural KIWSF will also feature three demonstration events: water skiing, dragon boat racing, and the ‘shikara’ sprint.
“When I began paddling here at the age of 10 in the 1990s, I dreamed of representing India. That dream came true when I became the first Indian woman to compete in a World Cup,” Mir added. “I am confident this festival will be exhilarating and inspire young athletes who aspire to represent India on the international stage.”
Muhammad Imtiyaz, a water sports coach, said, “The Khelo India Winter Games transformed Gulmarg into the country’s winter sports hub. Similarly, the Khelo India Water Sports Festival will put Jammu and Kashmir on the map for water sports athletes nationwide.”
