Srinagar, Oct 19: Advisor to Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani said the government aims to revive the historic Kashmir Golf Club within a year and a half, with a focus on upgrading infrastructure, promoting golf among youngsters and developing future players.
Speaking on the sidelines of the club’s 26th AGM and elections, Wani said the elected body would manage the club’s affairs, while the government would extend financial support and help improve facilities and players’ skills.
He said Rs 2 crore had already been sanctioned for the reconstruction of the clubhouse, adding that efforts would be made to make golf more accessible to children through academies and structured training.
“There is a lot of scope for professionalism in golf. Our aim is to train children so they can compete at higher levels,” Wani said.
Highlighting the government’s broader sports promotion agenda, he said Jammu and Kashmir had hosted a large-scale Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) tournament this year and was also working to promote marathons and winter sports.
Wani said the government was exploring the installation of snow-making machines to extend the skiing season and considering additional ski lifts at Gulmarg to attract more enthusiasts and strengthen its position as a winter sports destination.
He added that the government was committed to expanding sports infrastructure beyond district headquarters to block and educational levels to encourage greater participation among children.
