IOA’s cool deal for Gulmarg

Encouraged by the winds of peace blowing across the subcontinent, Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has lent its support to J&K bid to host an international winter games at this ski resort. Amid the colourful scenes at Gulmarg, venue for the 4th National Winter Games that got underway on Wednesday, IOA declared it would start the Gulmarg Olympic Cup to boost the image of the resort as an international skiing centre.

Egged on by an enthusiastic audience, IOA president Suresh Kalmadi declared Gulmarg a suitable spot for hosting international skiing events. ‘‘What better setting can one get to hold the Winter Games than this,’’ he asked. ‘‘Within a couple of years it should be possible to hold SAF and Commonwealth Winter Games here. With the border situation improving we look forward to converting this resort into an international games destination.’’

The arrival of skiers and their crew for the ongoing meet has boosted the local economy, already in a high after a heavy inflow of tourists on Christmas and New Year’s eve.

Story continues below this ad

‘‘For years we had no one here. But things are changing and the National Games have brought fresh arrivals into Gulmarg,’’ said Abdul Qayoom, a sledge puller.

A welcome change indeed, and if the IOA puts its money where its mouth is, India could be part of a sporting map there was no dreams of till a few years back. And the economy, significantly, will get a welcome boost.