Srinagar, Feb 14: With the aim of boosting winter sports and promoting winter tourism in Sonamarg, the 10th National SnowShoe Championship commenced with a grand opening ceremony on Saturday.

Director Tourism Kashmir, Syed Qamar Sajad, was the chief guest at the inauguration ceremony. Addressing the participants, he described the event as a significant step toward a brighter future for Sonamarg, with the vision of developing it into a major winter sports destination.
“It is great to see such a big event with participation from around 173 athletes representing 20 states being held in Sonamarg. This will give a major push to promoting Sonamarg as a premier winter sports destination,” he said.
Welcoming the athletes, he added, “You are our ambassadors. You must promote Kashmir as a safe and ideal destination for all seasons, apart from being a hub for winter sports.”
He further stated that the SnowShoe Championship is being held for the third consecutive time in Sonamarg and noted that the sport does not require major infrastructure upgrades. “While the event is currently being dominated by J&K athletes, it is encouraging to see participation from athletes across the country, including coastal states,” he said.
Expressing confidence in the arrangements, he assured participants that all necessary facilities had been provided. “I am hopeful that all kinds of facilities are being made available and nothing is lacking. I have directed all officials to ensure the best possible arrangements,” he added.
Among those present on the occasion were Deputy Director Tourism (Recreation), CEO SDA Bilal Mukhtar, SDM Kangan, SHO Sonamarg, J&K SnowShoe Association President Tariq Ghani, Vice President Arif Laigaroo, General Secretary Dr. Altaf-ur-Rehman, and other officials.