Dal Lake Hosts Khelo India Water Sports Festival 2025 | J&K Tourism Boost | Khelo India Water Sports Festival, KIWSF, Dal Lake, water sports, Jammu and Kashmir, J&K tourism, Srinagar, rowing, canoeing, kayaking, aquatic sports, sports festival 2025, India water sports, Dal Lake events

The scenic Dal Lake is ready to host the inaugural Khelo India Water Sports Festival (KIWSF) from August 21 to 23, 2025.

The event marks the lake’s entry into national-level water sports and is expected to give a big boost to both tourism and water sports in Jammu and Kashmir.

The festival is being organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the Sports Authority of India (SAI), and the Jammu & Kashmir Sports Council.

More than 400 athletes from 36 states and Union Territories will compete in medal events such as rowing, canoeing, and kayaking.

The schedule also includes events like water skiing, dragon boat racing, and the much-loved shikara sprint, adding colour and excitement for visitors.

Earlier this month, the festival’s mascot was unveiled in Srinagar. It is the Himalayan Kingfisher, a bird chosen to symbolise youth, energy, and respect for nature.

The logo shows a shikara gliding across Dal Lake, set against the backdrop of mountains and pine forests, blending Kashmir’s beauty with the vibrancy of Khelo India.

Satish Sharma, the Minister for Youth Services and Sports, attended the launch and described the event as a proud moment for the region.

The festival is expected to bring multiple benefits. Dal Lake has always been central to Kashmir’s culture and tourism, but now it will also shine as a sporting venue. Houseboat owners and tourism operators believe the games will attract more visitors, helping to revive the tourism industry.

For many locals, the event is seen as an opportunity to highlight Kashmir as a destination for both adventure and eco-friendly tourism.

Sports personalities have also welcomed the initiative. Bilquis Mir, an Olympic judge and pioneer in canoeing and kayaking, called the festival “the beginning of a new era for water sports in our country.”

“This is a very innovative way to showcase Dal Lake as a venue for hosting water sports events,’’ Mir said. “This will motivate youngsters in Kashmir to explore water sports as a serious career option and help them develop new skills while promoting tourism in the region.”

She stated that, unlike popular sports in India such as cricket and hockey, water sports have 15 medals available in international competitions.

“ With proper focus and training, Kashmir could win a medal for India in the Olympics in water sporting events,” she said. “ Water sports in Dal lake will also help in keeping the lake clean from pollution.”

Preparations are in full swing, with special attention given to protecting the lake’s ecosystem.

Activities such as deweeding are being carried out to ensure that Dal Lake remains healthy and ready for the competition.

The KIWSF is set to be more than just a sporting contest. It will bring together sport, culture, environment, and community pride in one celebration.

As athletes and visitors gather on Dal Lake later this week, they will experience not only thrilling competitions but also the charm and heritage that make Kashmir unique.

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