Briefing February 28 – March 6, 2021 GULMARG Artists perform at the inaugural function of the 2nd Khelo India National Winter Games, at the ski resort of Gulmarg, Friday, February 26, 2021. KL Image by Bilal Bahadur Unlike previous years when the tourism industry in Kashmir suffered a severe dent, the tourist footfalls, mostly domestic came as a relief to the hospitality sector. This year’s snowfall brought with it a huge influx of tourists across the country and the tourism department also busied itself with sports events, winter festivals, adventure related activities, Bollywood celeb visits. Lately, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the second Khelo India Winter Games in Gulmarg and said that the event is a step towards making Jammu and Kashmir a hub of winter sports. Athletes from 27 states and Union Territories are competing in the games which will conclude on March 2. He was addressing over 600 participants including international players through virtual mode. Khelo India International Games Festival, Prime Minister said signifies that Jammu and Kashmir is touching new heights in peace and development. Meanwhile, Sonmarg was thrown open amid reports that Dal Lake is among 12 sites termed iconic tourist destinations.