Itanagar, Apr 2: Arunachal Pradesh will host India’s inaugural National Ski Mountaineering Championship later this month, marking the state’s entry into organized winter sports, Chief Minister Pema Khandu announced on Wednesday.

In a post on X, Khandu described the event as a “landmark moment for Indian winter sports and tourism” and said it signals a “bright future” for the sector in the region. The championship will be held alongside the first Ski & Snowboarding Training Programme.

The training camp is scheduled from April 5 to 14, leading up to the championship on April 15. The programme aims to bring together winter sports enthusiasts and athletes in Arunachal Pradesh’s high-altitude, snow-covered terrain.

Officials said the initiative is intended to introduce structured winter sports, identify regional talent, and attract national-level participants. The state also aims to develop adventure tourism and create opportunities for aspiring athletes through the programme.

Pema Khandu described the event as “a historic first and the beginning of snow sports in the region.”