India's National Winter Games, which were scheduled to take place from February 22 to 25 in Gulmarg, have been postponed due to insufficient snowfall. The event, expected to host around 300 athletes competing in four snow sports—ski mountaineering, alpine skiing, snowboarding, and Nordic skiing—was called off as key ski slopes in the region lacked adequate snow cover.

Authorities noted that Gulmarg's slopes, which typically receive seven to eight feet of snowfall, have seen significantly lower accumulation this season. A fresh assessment will be conducted once conditions improve, with a revised update to be provided accordingly.

This marks the second consecutive year that the region has faced snowfall shortages, impacting not only winter sports but also tourism and agriculture. The ongoing dry weather, coupled with a 79% rainfall deficit, has raised concerns among experts about potential consequences for Kashmir’s horticulture sector, which plays a crucial role in the region’s economy. Kashmir produces approximately 2.5 million metric tons of fruit annually, with apples being the primary crop.

Experts have also warned that the unusual temperature increase—recording 12 degrees Celsius above normal in February—could have adverse effects on crops, some of which have become active prematurely instead of remaining dormant until late winter. The dry spell has further led to the drying up of several springs, including one at the historic 17th-century Mughal Garden in Achabal, south of Srinagar.

As the region grapples with changing weather patterns, concerns continue to rise over the long-term impact on agriculture, tourism, and water resources.