Chhattisgarh Aims to Become a Premier Golf Destination with New Initiatives

Chhattisgarh is taking significant steps to enhance its golf ecosystem and promote sports tourism. Discussions led by Kapil Dev with state officials aim to develop international-standard golf facilities in Nava Raipur, with plans for a championship course and increased professional events. This initiative seeks to position Chhattisgarh as a key player in the national golf scene, fostering economic growth and tourism. The collaboration reflects a broader vision of integrating sports with regional development, making Nava Raipur a potential global golf destination.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 26, 2026, 18:25 IST

Strengthening Golf Infrastructure in Chhattisgarh

In a pivotal move to enhance India's golf landscape and promote sports tourism, Padma Bhushan Kapil Dev, who serves as the President of the Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI), engaged in discussions with Chhattisgarh's Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai regarding the future of golf infrastructure in the state. The meeting also included Subodh Kumar Singh, IAS, along with senior officials from the Chhattisgarh Government and PGTI CEO Amandeep Johl.

Collaboration for International Golf Development

The talks centered on advancing golf in Chhattisgarh through a significant partnership aimed at establishing international-standard golf facilities in Nava Raipur, with aspirations to host global tournaments. This initiative underscores the recognition of golf as a vital tool for enhancing destination branding, boosting hospitality, and fostering regional economic growth.

Plans for Championship Golf Course

A primary focus was the proposed creation of an international championship golf course in Nava Raipur, designed to meet global tournament standards. The framework discussed involves the State Government facilitating land allocation and providing institutional support, while PGTI aims to attract private investments, technical expertise, and international golf collaborations. The ultimate goal is to establish a venue capable of hosting major professional tournaments, training academies, and golf tourism initiatives.

Expanding the Golf Tournament Landscape

The meeting also considered the potential for increasing the number of professional golf events in Raipur and its vicinity, thereby enhancing Central India's visibility on the competitive golf calendar. PGTI leaders emphasized that broadening tournament opportunities beyond major metropolitan areas can create new pathways for players, encourage youth involvement, attract visitors, and bolster regional economic development through sports tourism.

Exploring a Nava Raipur Franchise in 72 The League

Another exciting aspect of the discussions was the possibility of establishing a Nava Raipur franchise in 72 The League, a newly launched franchise-based professional golf format in India. If pursued, this initiative could foster a unique regional sports identity, enhance fan engagement, attract corporate sponsorship, and position Chhattisgarh as a progressive sporting hub with increasing national significance.

Aligning Golf Development with Economic Growth

PGTI representatives highlighted that global experiences consistently demonstrate a strong correlation between golf development and tourism expansion. Regions that invest in high-quality golf infrastructure often cultivate broader economic ecosystems encompassing hospitality, real estate, conferences, and international sporting events. This proposed collaboration aligns with India's overarching vision of sports-driven economic growth and the goal of Viksit Bharat, where emerging cities play a crucial role in national and global sports networks.

Nava Raipur's Vision as a Global Golf Hub

This interaction signifies a crucial step in advancing professional golf into new growth markets and enhancing collaboration between sports governing bodies and progressive state administrations. With institutional backing, investment participation, and PGTI's expertise in tournaments, Nava Raipur is being envisioned as a future international golf destination capable of hosting world-class events while significantly contributing to tourism, employment, and regional development.