In a country known for its spiritual trails, palatial heritage, and diverse topography, golf tourism is quietly emerging as India’s next big play. At the forefront of this shift stands Rajan Sehgal, a relentless advocate and visionary in his role as President of the Indian Golf Tourism Association (IGTA). His mission: to place India on the global map as a premier golf tourism destination.
“India offers golf 365 days a year—from the serene courses in Jammu & Kashmir to the sunny greens in the South. Yet, countries like Thailand and Vietnam attract more golfers due to their aggressive marketing. It’s time we showcase our diverse golfing destinations to the world,” Sehgal asserts.
And he’s not wrong. India boasts over 230 golf courses spread across picturesque locales—from colonial-era clubs nestled in the hills to sprawling, world-class championship courses in metropolitan hubs. But while the infrastructure exists, international visibility remains limited. Sehgal believes the gap isn’t in quality, but in positioning.
“Golfers spend 40–45% more than typical tourists and stay longer,” he points out. “By promoting golf tourism, we can boost local economies, create jobs, and enhance India’s stature as a premium destination.”
Golf tourism, globally recognized as a high-yield segment, has already transformed economies in parts of Southeast Asia and the Middle East. For India, it represents an untapped goldmine—an intersection of sport, leisure, and luxury that can attract high-spending international travelers while elevating domestic tourism circuits.
Sehgal and IGTA are already laying the groundwork. Under his leadership, the association has collaborated with the Ministry of Tourism, several state tourism boards, and apex industry bodies like FICCI and PHDCCI to organize golf tourism conclaves and bring global tour operators to Indian soil.
“These efforts aim to position India as a top golfing destination,” he emphasizes. The strategy is clear: integrate golf with cultural and experiential travel packages to create compelling, full-bodied itineraries.
Rajan Sehgal’s vision reflects a deeper truth about tourism in modern India: it’s not just about numbers; it’s about quality, experience, and value. As India eyes a leadership role in global tourism, voices like his remind us that it’s time to swing big—on and off the course.
