Overview

• Scheduled for August 21–23, the inaugural event is organised by the Sports Authority of India and the J&K Sports Council with medal competitions in rowing, canoeing and kayaking, plus demonstration races in water skiing, dragon boat and a shikara sprint.
• Participation figures vary by source, with more than 400 athletes expected from up to 36 states and Union Territories, entry lists citing 409 competitors including 202 women, and local officials counting a total headcount near 800 when athletes and officials are combined.
• Entries were determined from recent nationals, with kayaking and canoeing qualifiers drawn from Tehri and rowing qualifiers from Bhopal.
• Tokyo Olympian and Asian Games silver medallist Arjun Lal Jat headlines the field, and the opening ceremony is planned for Thursday evening with invited dignitaries including Union Minister of State Raksha Khadse.
• Jammu & Kashmir’s 17-strong contingent prepared in a 21-day camp as organisers position the festival to elevate local athletes and support houseboat owners, vendors and other Dal Lake stakeholders.