GULMARG, Feb. 25 -- Shazia Hassan, a 35-year-old resident of Uranhall Village in South Kashmir's Anantnag district, has emerged victorious at the Khelo India Winter Games 2024, securing two silver medals in Ski Mountaineering.

Her triumph not only signifies personal achievement but also breaks barriers in a region where such feats are a rarity.

Facing adversity from an early age after losing her father, Shazia took on the responsibility of caring for her family. However, her journey took an unexpected turn when she discovered her passion and talent for Ski Mountaineering upon joining the Jawahar Institutions of Mountaineering and Winter Sports (JIM & WG) in 2010.

Becoming the lone female representative from her locality at the institut...