With a view to unlock the economic and employment potential through development of golf courses and promotion of golf travel and tourism, experts from different sectors came together under the umbrella of Golf Industry Association (GIA). The occasion was a curtain raiser for 6th Annual India Golf Expo; arguably India's largest meeting ground for the business of golf. India Golf Expo 2017 will be held from April 20-21 at DLF Club 5, Gurgaon.
Speaking on the occasion, Devang Shah, Promoter - Navratna Group and President - GIA said, "The Indian golf industry with its multifarious interests is aligning itself with the economic agenda of the Government. Mega investments in Golf real estate are underway which will provide a springboard for several sectors of economy. This year the India Golf Expo will have the custodians of world golf - The R&A - addressing the audience for the first time. This alludes to the importance of India emerging as a growing golf destination with global bodies and professional tours partaking in the growth. At the Expo, the GIA will also unveil a research report on the golf industry in India and the roadmap for the future."
Commenting on the growth of the game, Wg. Cdr. Arun K. Singh, Director General, Indian Golf Union added, "There is need to shed the elitist tag for golf. Golf is no more a game for the elites as it is generally believed. It is a sport for the middle class. With burgeoning middle class in India, the game of golf is all set for a bright future. All the main bodies of Indian golf will get together at the Golf expo to chart out a roadmap for grassroots development of the game and further enhance the ecosystem to consistently produce more champion golfers from India."
GIA with its members drawn from the golf industry, real estate, travel and tourism and urban development sectors is a non-profit industry association whose aim is to build and promote the Indian Golf Industry. GIA has undertaken a comprehensive golf industry research paper which will be unveiled at IGE 2017.
"IGE conferences provide in-depth knowledge for golf course superintendents and greens keepers from India and around the globe. Our experts get the opportunity to learn of the latest equipment and technology making this the most significant event for our industry." said Mohan Subramanian, Vice President of Golf Course Superintendents & Managers Association of India.
India Golf Expo 2017 is India's largest and most comprehensive gathering for the business of golf. The event will bring the best of minds from across sectors on one platform. The two day exposition to be held from April 20-21 at DLF Club 5, Gurgaon will comprise of a symposium, IGU turf care seminar, over 10,000 sq ft. of exhibition area, exclusive deals on equipment and apparel and industry awards.
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Golf has multiplier spin-off effect for the economy. Thailand and Malaysia as well as Middle East generate around USD 100 million in revenues from Golf Tourism each year and India has potential to grow to this level especially during mild winter months.
Golf can contribute to Greening India campaign of the Govt. Degraded forest land, abandoned mines and quarries can be converted into golf courses and earn revenues for the state.
Golf industry entails huge employment potential as well. Each golf course and resort generates employment for 200-500 people directly.
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