Kargil, November 5/ VOL News Desk/ The inaugural Ladakh Union Territory Kho Kho Championship 2025 concluded today at the University of Ladakh, Kargil Campus, marking a historic milestone in expanding India’s indigenous sport to one of the country’s highest regions. The event was organized by the Ladakh Kho Kho Association under the aegis of the Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI), with support from the University of Ladakh.

The two-day championship witnessed enthusiastic participation from 15 teams across Ladakh in the Senior, Junior, and Sub-Junior categories for both boys and girls, reflecting the growing grassroots engagement with traditional sports in the region.

In the finals across age groups, District Kargil teams dominated the championship, securing top honors in multiple categories. In the Senior Boys’, Kargil claimed the gold medal ahead of District Leh, while the Senior Women’s title also went to Kargil, followed by Leh and the University of Ladakh. 

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In the Junior Boys’ category, Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV) Kargil emerged champions defeating Government Model High School Goma Kargil. The Junior Girls’ crown was lifted by JNV Kargil, who outplayed Government High School Kaksar.

In the Sub-Junior Boys’ section, JNV Kargil secured the top spot ahead of Government Model High School Biathang, and in the Sub-Junior Girls’ category, JNV Kargil once again reigned supreme, followed by PM Shri Lungba Trespone.

The closing ceremony was graced by Professor (Dr.) Saket Kushwaha, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, University of Ladakh, who attended the finals as the Chief Guest. The Chief Guest, along with other dignitaries, was warmly welcomed by Syed Mehraj Uddin Shah, General Secretary, Ladakh Kho Kho Association, with traditional Khattak. Among others present were Dr. Mehboob Ali, Incharge, University of Ladakh (Kargil Campus); Dr. Jaffar Ali Khan; Anayat Ali, General Secretary, Ladakh Taekwondo Association; Abdul Hamid, DYSSO Kargil; and Ghulam Mustafa, Incharge, SAI Kargil, along with members of the Kho Kho Association, students, and sports enthusiasts.

Addressing the gathering, Professor (Dr.) Saket Kushwaha congratulated the Ladakh Kho Kho Association for successfully organizing its first UT-level championship and for consistently fielding teams in national tournaments over the past three years. He reaffirmed the University’s commitment to fostering sports participation and developing indigenous talent. “Ladakh’s youth have immense potential in sports like Kho Kho, and with the right infrastructure and exposure, they can emerge as strong national contenders,” he said.

In his remarks, Syed Mehraj Uddin Shah expressed gratitude to the University of Ladakh for its collaboration and to the Kho Kho Federation of India for its constant encouragement and support. He extended special thanks to Shri Sudhanshu Mittal, President, KKFI, Shri Upkar Singh Virk, General Secretary, KKFI, and Dr. M.S. Tyagi, Chairman, Administration & Organisation, KKFI, for their guidance in developing Kho Kho in Ladakh.

Shri Sudhanshu Mittal, President, Kho Kho Federation of India, lauded the Ladakh Kho Kho Association and local authorities for their dedication to promoting the sport in India’s northernmost region. “The successful organization of the first Ladakh UT Kho Kho Championship is a proud moment for our Kho Kho family. It shows that this ancient Indian game is touching new heights, both literally and figuratively, and inspiring a generation that values tradition, teamwork, and national pride,” said Mr. Mittal.

Shri Upkar Singh Virk, General Secretary, KKFI, praised the commitment of the athletes and organizers, emphasizing the event’s importance in expanding Kho Kho’s footprint. “For a sport that thrives on speed, agility, and unity, the enthusiasm from Ladakh’s players is truly inspiring. The Federation is committed to nurturing these young talents and ensuring that Kho Kho continues to reach every corner of the nation,” said Mr. Virk.

Adding to this, Dr. M.S. Tyagi, Chairman, Administration & Organisation, KKFI, said “From the plains to the Himalayas, Kho Kho continues to connect communities through shared values of discipline, courage, and resilience. The energy and participation in Ladakh reaffirm the sport’s bright future.”

The championship concluded with the distribution of medals and mementos to players, officials, and dignitaries by the Chief Guest and organizing members.

Results:

Boys Category

• Senior Boys: Gold – District Kargil | Silver – District Leh | Bronze – University of Ladakh
• Junior Boys: Gold – JNV Kargil | Silver – GMHS Goma Kargil | Bronze – District Kargil
• Sub-Junior Boys: Gold – JNV Kargil | Silver – GMHS Biathang

Girls Category

• Senior Girls: Gold – District Kargil | Silver – District Leh | Bronze – University of Ladakh
• Junior Girls: Gold – JNV Kargil | Silver – GHS Kaksar | Bronze – Council Model HS Goma Kargil
• Sub-Junior Girls: Gold – JNV Kargil | Silver – PM Shri Lungba Trespone | Bronze – GMHS Biathang