DELHI, India — The R&A Women in Golf Leadership Foundation Programme has officially launched in India for the first time, backed by funding from the DP World India Championship Legacy Fund. The initiative reflects a shared commitment to grow the sport and create a lasting legacy for golf across the country.
Ten women working across various sectors of the Indian golf industry have been selected for the inaugural programme, which aims to support emerging female leaders and strengthen the game's future.
The participants recently completed an in-person workshop in Delhi. Facilitated by The R&A and delivered by a leadership development specialist, the session marked the beginning of a development journey that will run through to the DP World India Championship in October.
The expansion of the programme into India is funded by the DP World India Championship Legacy Fund, an initiative established to generate long-term benefits for golf beyond championship week by supporting grassroots participation, talent development, and industry opportunities.
"Opening golf to the world is at the heart of The R&A’s strategy for the future of the sport," said Jackie Davidson, Director of Golf Education at The R&A. "Through the support of the DP World India Championship Legacy Fund, we are delighted to bring the Women in Golf Leadership Foundation Programme to India for the first time and invest in the talented women who are helping shape the future of golf."
Davidson added that India represents an important market for making the sport more inclusive. "By supporting women to develop their leadership skills and advance their careers, we can help create a stronger, more diverse industry and inspire more people to engage with golf."
Ben Cowen, Chief Tournament & Operations Officer at the DP World Tour, noted the tour's long-standing relationship with the region. "We have had a strong commitment to golf in India over many years, so we are pleased to be supporting The R&A Women in Golf Leadership Foundation Programme through our DP World India Championship," Cowen said. "This is yet another great example of how we work with our partners to continue to help develop our sport in the countries we play in, providing meaningful opportunities and ensuring our golf is inclusive and accessible."
First launched in 2019, the global programme helps women in golf build confidence, sharpen leadership skills, and expand professional networks to transition into executive roles. The inaugural Indian cohort includes a diverse mix of professionals:
Over the coming months, the cohort will engage in workshops, coaching, mentorship, and peer-to-peer learning focusing on communication, strategy, and career progression.
"It’s a privilege to be part of this cohort of women leaders," said participant Swati Dodeja. "The R&A Women in Golf Leadership Programme, supported by the DP World India Championship, gives us an invaluable opportunity to bring global best practices home. My hope is to use these insights to build stronger pathways for women and girls in golf and beyond."
Fellow participant Jagmeet Kaur Dhody emphasized the long-term community impact of the initiative. "For me, this programme is about creating more mentors and fewer barriers. I hope to learn how to design safe, structured pathways for girls to enter and stay in golf, from school to course to career. If we can show girls playing, leading, and being heard, I believe women’s golf in India will grow faster and stronger across communities."
The participants will continue their training independently before gathering again at the DP World India Championship in October, where the progress of the inaugural class will be officially celebrated.
