(A delegation of Indian Golf Union led by Major General (Retd) Bibhuti Bhushan along with members of the IGPL Board and Women’s Golf Association of India secretary general Champika Sayal met with the Hon’ble Union Sports Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya and Hon’ble Union Minister of Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat for a meaningful discussion on how to promote golf as a discipline at the grassroots level.)

In a significant move for the development of golf in India, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) has officially endorsed the Indian Golf Union’s (IGU) proposal to launch the first-ever Indian Golf Premier League (IGPL). Scheduled for January 2026, the city-based franchise league marks a landmark initiative in broadening the game’s reach among India’s youth.

The IGU, India’s recognised National Sports Federation for golf, will deliver the league in collaboration with Bharat Golf Private Limited, with support from key industry stakeholders including the Women’s Golf Association of India (WGAI). The IGPL aims to integrate both amateur and professional talent in a team-based format, providing a platform that mirrors successful franchise models in other sports.

A high-level delegation led by IGU Director General Major General (Retd) Bibhuti Bhushan, along with members of the IGPL board and WGAI Secretary General Champika Sayal, met this week with Union Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya and Minister of Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat to discuss the league’s strategic vision and its alignment with national sports development priorities.

“This is a proud moment for Indian golf,” said Bhushan. “We are honoured to receive the government’s full support. With the Indian Golf Premier League, we’re creating a platform not only to popularise the sport across Bharat but also to identify and nurture world-class talent capable of competing globally.”

The IGPL will place a strong emphasis on youth development, with an ambitious target to provide international-standard coaching and training infrastructure to over one million (10 lakh) school and college students over the next three years.

The initiative reflects India’s growing interest in positioning golf as a mainstream sport and aligns with national efforts to build a broader, more inclusive sporting ecosystem. For industry observers, the IGPL represents a significant opportunity for stakeholders—from course operators and equipment suppliers to sponsors and media partners—to tap into a younger, more diverse market.

Further details on franchise ownership, player selection, and tournament structure are expected to be announced in the coming months.