Gulmarg: Indian Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering (IISM) Friday concluded its first batch skiing and snowboarding training programme at Gulmarg in which over 80 students mostly from outside the state participated.

Director tourism Kashmir Mahmood A Shah was the chief guest on the graduation ceremony of the first batch.

He gave away awards and certificates to the position holders in different events.

Speaking on the occasion, Director Tourism Kashmir urged the non-local students to be the ambassadors of the state and share their experiences with their family and friends. He hailed them for taking part in the adventure sports events in Gulmarg which he said would not only help them in career building but in gaining knowledge of the place.

He also appreciated the role of IISM for organizing such courses which attract students from across the country.

“This course not only gives you an outdoor experience but also helps in networking with the students from other states. I am happy to see this batch has students from many cities in India which will ultimately boost tourism also,” said Director Tourism.

Director tourism further said Gulmarg is unique destination unlike other ski resorts which are far away from the city.

“We are further planning to upgrade the facilities at Gulmarg so that we can host national and international skiing and snowboarding championships,” he said.

He urged the students to post their pictures from the place on their social handles so that it promotes the place further and helps get positive news across.

Speaking on the occasion, Principal IISM Colonel J S Dhillon highlighted the role of IISM since its establishment in 1968. He said the institute organizes six courses and trains hundreds of the students every season who mostly come from other parts of the country.

“We get overwhelming response from the students across the country. The course help in promoting tourism.”

Guest