Suman Billa, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, emphasized the importance of golf tourism in the country, highlighting that golf tourists tend to stay longer, spend more, and represent a premium segment within the broader tourism market. He noted that golf tourists are low-footprint, high-impact visitors who contribute significantly to the tourism ecosystem.
Government’s Focus on Golf as a Key Tourism Infrastructure
At the International Golf Summit organized by FICCI, Billa stressed that the Indian government views golf as a crucial tourism infrastructure. By promoting golf tourism, India can attract high-end tourists, benefiting local economies and enhancing the tourism sector’s overall growth.
Key Pillars for Golf Tourism Promotion
Billa proposed the creation of a cohesive strategy and framework for promoting golf tourism, which includes forming an inter-ministerial task force to oversee both the development of the sport and tourism efforts. He further highlighted the need for golf circuits in India and a concerted approach to market the country as a golf tourism destination.
Collaboration and Infrastructure Development
Kunal, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India, emphasized that collaboration between government, citizens, corporates, and federations is key to promoting golf tourism. He advocated for more sustainable golf courses and the government acting as a catalyst to increase golf tournaments in the country.
Golf as a Catalyst for Economic Growth
Jyotsna Suri, Past President, FICCI, and CMD of The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, recognized golf as more than just a sport—she sees it as a driver for high-value tourism, economic growth, and global networking. She stressed the need for synergy between golf and tourism to enhance the game and improve the overall experience.
Making Golf Accessible and Inclusive
PKSV Sagar, Chairman of the FICCI Sports Committee and President of GMR Sports, spoke about the need to make golf more inclusive, aspirational, and accessible to a wider audience, especially India’s youth. He believes this approach can inspire the next generation of golfers and solidify India’s position as a rising powerhouse in the sport.
Conclusion: A Collaborative Effort for Golf Tourism’s Future
Rajan Sehgal, Chairman of the FICCI Golf Task Force and President of the India Golf Tourism Association, moderated the session, fostering insightful discussions on golf tourism’s growth potential. The session concluded with a collective vision for India to enhance its golf infrastructure and promote the sport as a vital component of the country’s tourism landscape.
