New Delhi, March 10 -- Two-time Olympian and alpine skier Arif Mohammad Khan has urged the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports to develop world-class winter sports infrastructure in Gulmarg, saying the move would help Indian athletes prepare for global competitions and elevate the country's standing in winter sports.

Arif said that at least one fully developed training infrastructure is needed on the slopes of Gulmarg, particularly at Kangdoori, where athletes can train and compete for a full winter season lasting around five months until the end of April.

He lauded the government's Khelo India Winter Games initiative, noting that six editions of the event have already laid a strong foundation for winter sports in the country.

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