J&K Open Golf Tournament to Become Annual Event, Golf Tourism Central to Kashmir’s Revival: CM Omar Abdullah

Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday announced that the J&K Open Golf Tournament, held under the Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI), will now be organised annually, describing golf tourism as a key component of the Union Territory’s broader tourism strategy. Speaking at the ceremonial inauguration and tee-off of the J&K Open 2026 at the Royal Springs Golf Course (RSGC) in Srinagar, the Chief Minister said the government aims to make the tournament a permanent fixture on India’s golfing calendar. “This tournament marks an important milestone in bringing Kashmir, particularly the Royal Springs Golf Course, back onto India’s golf map. Our endeavour is to make it an annual event rather than a one-time tournament. We also plan to increase the prize money and participation in the coming years and ensure it continues as a regular event for at least the next five years,” Abdullah said. Highlighting the growing potential of golf tourism, he said Jammu and Kashmir has already begun attracting visitors who travel to Srinagar specifically for golfing holidays. “Golf tourism is an important part of our tourism promotion strategy. We are already seeing golfers flying into Srinagar for long weekends dedicated to the sport, and this is the trend we want to encourage further,” he said. The Chief Minister also announced plans to establish a Golf Academy in Jammu and Kashmir to identify and train young talent. “Our boys and girls have immense talent but need greater exposure. With more tournaments and proper training facilities, they will have the opportunity to represent the country at the highest level,” he said. Referring to recent sporting achievements from the Union Territory, Abdullah congratulated cricketer Auqib Nabi on his selection to India’s Test squad for the upcoming Sri Lanka series and also applauded the international success of a local Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) athlete. On sports infrastructure, the Chief Minister said the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has proposed the construction of two international-standard cricket stadiums in Jammu and Kashmir. He expressed hope that the projects would be completed soon, enabling the Union Territory to host Indian Premier League (IPL) matches and international cricket fixtures in the future. Abdullah stressed that golf courses should not be viewed solely as revenue-generating assets but as important catalysts for tourism and economic activity. “Visitors who come here to play golf also stay in hotels and houseboats, hire taxis, purchase local handicrafts and contribute to the overall economy. The benefits extend well beyond the golf course,” he said. Recalling Kashmir’s rich golfing heritage, the Chief Minister said the Valley had previously hosted several prestigious national golf tournaments and expressed confidence that sustained efforts would help restore Jammu and Kashmir’s position as one of India’s leading golf destinations.