PROFESSIONAL GOLF TOUR OF INDIA (PGTI) president Kapil Dev met Vishnu Deo Sai, Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, to discuss the future expansion of golf infrastructure in the state. The meeting was also attended by senior government representative, Subodh Kumar Singh, IAS, and PGTI CEO Amandeep Johl.
Talks centred on developing international-standard golf facilities in Nava Raipur through a collaborative framework aimed at positioning the region to host global tournaments. The discussions reflected a broader view of golf as more than a competitive sport highlighting its potential to drive destination branding, hospitality growth and regional economic development, per the media release.
A key proposal involved the development of a championship-level golf course in Nava Raipur built to global tournament specifications. Under the framework explored, the state government would support land allocation and institutional clearances, while PGTI would seek to attract private investment, technical expertise and international partnerships. The long-term vision is to establish a venue capable of staging major professional events, housing training academies and promoting golf tourism.
The meeting also examined the possibility of expanding the tournament calendar in Raipur and neighbouring areas. PGTI leadership emphasised that taking professional events beyond established metropolitan centres can create new pathways for players, encourage youth participation and stimulate sports-led tourism.
Another point of discussion was the potential introduction of a Nava Raipur franchise in 72 The League, India’s franchise-based professional golf format.
PGTI representatives noted that international experience demonstrates a strong link between golf infrastructure and tourism-led economic ecosystems, often supporting hospitality, real estate, conferences and global sporting events.
The media release added that with policy backing, investment participation and PGTI’s tournament expertise, Nava Raipur is being envisioned as an emerging international golf destination, capable of hosting world-class competitions while contributing to tourism, employment and regional growth.