Golf once again took centerstage in the valley as government and private stakeholders deliberated challenges and opportunities to position Jammu and Kashmir, and the country, as a world-class golfing destination. Organized by PHD Chamber of Commerce & Industry (PHDCCI), the second edition of PHD Golf Tourism Conclave and Tournament at Srinagar was attended by local, national and international representatives, including Khurshid Ahmad Ganai, Advisor to Governor, J&K; Farooq A Shah, secretary, PHE I&FC, J&K; B. Venkatesham, secretary tourism, Telangana; and Mushtaq Chaya, Chairman- Kashmir Committee, PHDCCI
Khurshid Ahmad Ganai, Advisor to Governor, Govt. of J&K highlighted the importance of positioning the region as a world-class golfing destination and promoting golfing as a niche tourism product. He added that the governor’s administration was keen on developing tourism infrastructure to ensure visitor safety and comfort in the state.
The representatives of Jammu & Kashmir, Telangana, and Delhi detailed their available golfing facilities. Countries such as Thailand and Bulgaria made similar presentations.
Local golfers aside, over 90 golfers, participated in the PHD Golf Tournament held at Royal Springs Golf Course, Srinagar. The tournament was inaugurated by former Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah who stressed on creating a Golf Development Authority to maintain existing courses and developing new ones and urged the state government for the same. He noted that Kashmir had become one of the favourite spots for golf lovers.
