Srinagar, October 19: The Kashmir Golf Course (KGC) is set for a major revamp, with Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister’s Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani announcing a Rs 2 crore plan for reconstruction of its clubhouse and proposing a dedicated golf academy to nurture young talent.

The announcements came on Monday as the historic golf club held elections to its management after a gap of 14 years, raising hopes of improved administration and long-awaited infrastructure development.

Speaking on the sidelines of the elections, Wani said the return of an elected management would enable club members to take charge of its affairs, while the government would extend necessary support to address existing shortcomings and upgrade facilities.

He described the Kashmir Golf Course as an institution with a rich golfing legacy and expressed confidence that efforts to revive the facility could be completed within six months.

Wani said a Rs 2 crore plan had been prepared for rebuilding the clubhouse, adding that other infrastructure requirements would also be addressed as part of the broader revival initiative.

Emphasising the need to promote golf among younger generations, the Advisor said the government planned to establish a dedicated academy where children could receive professional coaching and prepare for competitive tournaments.

He noted that golf offered opportunities for aspiring athletes to pursue the sport professionally and compete at higher levels.

Referring to the Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) tournament held in Jammu and Kashmir this year, Wani said the event had helped promote professional golf in the Union Territory.

The Advisor also highlighted the government’s broader strategy to strengthen sports infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir, saying facilities would be developed at both district and block levels to make training and sporting opportunities more accessible to young people.

On winter sports, Wani said efforts were underway to introduce snow-making machines in Gulmarg this year, with the aim of starting the skiing season earlier and extending its duration.

He said existing ski lifts had been upgraded, while additional lifts were also being considered to accommodate more skiers and further strengthen Gulmarg’s standing as a major winter sports destination.

Improved skiing infrastructure, he added, would also support tourism and attract more visitors to the popular resort.

Wani further said the government was working to expand the Kashmir Marathon, promote winter games and increase participation in organised sporting events across the Union Territory.

He said sustained investment in sports infrastructure and professional training would help young people explore sports as a career while positioning Jammu and Kashmir as a destination for major sporting competitions. (KNS)