GOLF HAS THE potential to drive the growth of tourism, open investment opportunities, and lead to youth development in India, according to Amandeep Singh Johl, Chief Executive Officer of the Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI).
Speaking at a sports development forum in New Delhi, Johl argued that India is yet to fully harness the sport’s economic and social potential. His remarks come at a time when both government agencies and industry stakeholders are increasingly promoting golf tourism as a high-value niche sector capable of attracting investment, generating employment, and supporting regional development.
Addressing the “Understanding Emerging Sports in India” session during the Raising An Athlete Sports Talk Series, Johl said golf should be viewed not merely as a sport but as a broader economic ecosystem capable of driving tourism, real-estate development, business networking and investment.
According to Johl, India’s golf sector remains underdeveloped compared with global markets despite possessing favorable weather conditions, growing infrastructure and a large youth population. He stressed the need for more golf courses, greater accessibility and increased public awareness of the sport. “India needs more golf courses, more access and more awareness,” Johl said, emphasizing that the sport can contribute significantly to tourism and economic activity.
Beyond economics, Johl highlighted golf’s role in shaping young athletes and fostering life skills. He described golf as a sport that teaches integrity, discipline, accountability and resilience, arguing that its lessons often extend beyond competition and into personal development. He encouraged parents to introduce children to golf without the pressure of immediate success or professional ambitions.
According to Johl, golf offers a long-term developmental pathway for children while promoting family participation across generations. He noted that grandparents, parents and children can all engage in the sport together, making it unique among competitive sports.
Johl’s comments align with a broader national effort to position India as a global golf tourism destination. Earlier this year, the Ministry of Tourism backed initiatives aimed at expanding golf-related infrastructure and attracting international visitors. The government has identified golf tourism as a high-value segment capable of drawing affluent travelers with longer stays and higher spending patterns.
According to PGTI, investment in golf infrastructure can create employment opportunities, support hospitality businesses and help emerging cities attract domestic and international sporting events. Golf in India has traditionally been viewed as an elite sport with limited accessibility. However, administrators and former players have increasingly called for broader participation and grassroots programs to expand the sport’s reach.
