Itanagar : Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Friday said the Winter Adventure Tawang initiative marks a significant step towards building a robust winter sports ecosystem in the state, while simultaneously unlocking the vast adventure tourism potential of Tawang in the eastern Himalayas.

The Chief Minister made the remarks after visiting the ongoing training programme at Panga Teng Tso Lake, where he interacted with trainees participating in skiing and snowboarding sessions.

Describing the initiative as a “step toward building a winter sports ecosystem,” Khandu highlighted that 46 trainees are currently undergoing specialised training under the SkiMo India Federation.

“With 46 trainees receiving expert training in skiing and snowboarding, the programme is not only nurturing local talent but also strengthening Tawang’s potential as a premier adventure tourism destination,” he said.

Officials said the programme is designed to provide intensive, structured training in skiing and snowboarding, alongside essential safety protocols and high-altitude endurance preparation-key components required for winter sports in mountainous terrain.

Khandu termed the initiative an encouraging beginning for youth engagement in adventure sports, adding that it represents a promising convergence of youth development, sports infrastructure, and sustainable tourism in the frontier state.

During his visit, the Chief Minister observed live training sessions at the high-altitude lake and interacted with participants drawn from across Arunachal Pradesh and other parts of the country.

“Young participants are being trained and prepared for the demands of high-altitude winter adventure,” he noted, underscoring the broader national appeal of the programme.

The visit also saw Khandu taking a ride on a Polaris Voyageur snow vehicle, reflecting the rugged terrain and challenging climatic conditions of the region. “In the heart of the Tawang Himalayas, every challenge is an opportunity to sharpen our resolve,” he remarked.

Highlighting the region’s unique climate, the Chief Minister added, “Snow in April-here in Tawang, winter lingers, and so does the spirit of adventure.”

The Winter Adventure Tawang training programme, being conducted in the strategically located border district, aims to promote organised winter sports while positioning the region as an emerging hub for adventure tourism in India.