India must develop framework, inter-ministerial task force to boost golf tourism: Suman Billa – ET TravelWorld

Suman Billa, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, underscored the importance of promoting golf tourism in India, recognizing the premium nature of golf tourists. He highlighted that these tourists tend to stay longer, spend more, and have a significant positive impact on the local economy. “Essentially, we want tourists who leave a low footprint but create high impact, and golf tourists fit that profile perfectly,” Billa said.

At the ‘International Golf Summit’ organized by FICCI, Billa referred to golf as a critical component of India’s tourism infrastructure. He emphasized the need to attract high-end tourists to support local economies, noting that golf tourism should be a priority. He also pointed out the interlinking of golf tourism and the development of the sport, urging the creation of a task force to focus on both.

“India needs to develop golf circuits, train the workforce, and ensure we present golf tourism in a meaningful way both within India and globally,” said Billa.

Kunal, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, echoed these sentiments, stressing that all stakeholders—government, citizens, corporates, and federations—must collaborate to build the necessary infrastructure for golf and other sports. He also advocated for building golf courses sustainably and emphasized the government’s role in acting as a facilitator.

Jyotsna Suri, Past President of FICCI and CMD of The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, highlighted golf’s potential to drive high-value tourism and global networking. “We must enhance the synergy between golf and tourism to elevate both,” she said.

PKSV Sagar, Chairman of FICCI’s Sports Committee, emphasized the need for golf to become more inclusive and accessible to India’s youth. The session was moderated by Rajan Sehgal, Chairman of FICCI’s Golf Task Force.