GIA targets Rs1bn from golf tourism by 2024

NEW DELHI: The 8th Indian Golf and Turf Expo (IGE) 2019 is scheduled to be held at New Delhi’s Thyagraj stadium on April 26-27.

Speaking at the formal launch of the event, Suman Billa, joint secretary, ministry of tourism, government of India, said: “The ministry of tourism of the government of India has long identified golf as a potential tourism booster and has taken several measures including developing more public courses to grow and promote the sport in the country. In a welcome addition, this year’s IGE has also involved turf experts and professionals in a big way. This is so important to ensure that the best of infrastructure is available in the country, not only to boost the prospects of golf, but also other sports like football, cricket, polo and others where quality turf plays a critical role in boosting the standards of the athletes game. I thank all partners in making IGE a success over the years and look forward to the 2019 edition.”

The expo will be attended by Peter Walton, president & chief executive, IAGTO - The Global Golf Tourism Organisation; Bruce MacPhee, senior agronomist, and Mike Orloff, managing director, Golf Industry Central, amongst others.

Rishi Narain, former Asian Games Gold medalist stated: “The Golf Industry Association has set a target to generate revenue of Rs 100 crores (Rs 1 billion) in next five years through golf tourism.”

IGE 2019 will see around 50 domestic and international exhibitors display their products along with conferences by eminent speakers, golf simulators to hone golf skills, putting and snag golf competitions, networking lunches, evening cocktails and gala dinner. About 37 Golf clubs from across the country have also confirmed their participation.

India has over 240 golf courses and about 150,000 individuals play the game across age groups.