In a bid to position India as a golfing destination in the world, the Union Tourism Ministry is making all efforts to boost itself as a niche product for domestic and international tourists.
In this regard, it has for the first time, offered attractive incentives to the corporate houses, golf clubs and even the management is keen to conduct golf events in the country as per its recently framed guidelines for golf tourism, which aims to encourage creation of additional world class golf infrastructure in the country.
The move follows concern that the country has not been able to utilize its unlimited potential in niche sectors like golf, caravan, polo, adventure sports etc.
“It has been observed that there has been a growing interest among the domestic and particularly international tourists to experience golf tourism in destinations outside their country of origin,” said a senior official from the Tourism Ministry.
He said while golf tourism is a niche market, it is important for the tourism in India for multiple reasons. “India has several golf courses of international standards. Further, golf events held in India also attract domestic and international tourists. International tourists are expected to grow in the next few years, it is important that India has the right product to meet the need of the visitors,” he said on the need to promote golf tourism.
He cited several studies according to which over 52 per cent of traveling golfers are likely to take two or more golfing holidays in a year and they spend on an average, 33% more on their holidays as compared to regular holiday makers.
“It is said that 70-78 per cent golfers would be prepared to visit a new golfing destination and this community represents the wealthiest 50 per cent of all golfers,” the official said.
As per the guidelines, the India Golf Tourism Committee (IGTC) has to be constituted to serve as the nodal body for golf tourism in the country. “The IGTC would function with an objective to promote India as a preferred golf destination and would make the necessary suggestions and recommendations,” said the official.