Ladakh Tops Khelo India Winter Games 2025; Army Retains Ice Hockey Title

The first phase of the Khelo India Winter Games (KIWG) 2025 concluded with Ladakh emerging as the top performer. Hosted in Leh, the capital of Ladakh, the games featured exciting competitions, including a thrilling men’s ice hockey final where the Indian Army successfully defended its title. The games also showcased impressive performances in skating and ice hockey, with notable achievements from Ladakh, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra.

Key Highlights of the Event

Ladakh’s Victory

• Ladakh topped the medal tally with seven medals, including four golds. The state’s athletes shone in events like mixed relay and women’s ice hockey.

Indian Army’s Dominance in ICE Hockey

• The Army retained its ice hockey crown by defeating ITBP 2-1 in a thrilling final. The match had intense moments, with goals coming in the final period.

Tamil Nadu’s Skating Skating Success

• Tamil Nadu emerged as a rising talent hub in skating, securing three gold medals, including Yashashree’s victory in the women’s 500m long track.

Maharashtra’s Performance

• Despite winning the highest number of medals (10), Maharashtra could only secure two golds, finishing third in the medal tally.

Women’s ICE Hockey

• Ladakh’s women’s team avenged last year’s loss to ITBP by defeating them 4-0, topping the women’s round-robin league.

Upcoming Phase

• The second phase of KIWG 2025 is scheduled to take place in Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir, from February 22 to 25.