NE India Set to Host First-Ever Golf League; IPL Styled NEGL To Take Place Soon!

In a historic step towards expanding golf in Northeast India, the Indian Golf Union (IGU) has announced plans to organise the first-ever Golf League in the Northeastern region, aimed at nurturing grassroots talent and integrating the region with the national golfing ecosystem.

The announcement was made during a press conference held at the Guwahati Press Club, following a significant meeting of the IGU with representatives from six Northeastern states. The meeting focused on long-term strategies to develop and promote golf across the region.

Addressing the media, IGU Director General & CEO Bibhuti Bhusan and Secretary Shashank Sandu highlighted that every major sport in the country has a national federation—such as the BCCI for cricket—and similarly, the Indian Golf Union is the apex governing body for golf in India.

They noted that the Northeast has consistently produced outstanding sportspersons, including Olympians, and expressed confidence that the region will now contribute significantly to the growth of golf as well.

Outlining the roadmap for development, IGU officials said the first priority will be conducting a golf tour across the Northeast to identify talent at the grassroots level. Secondly, a Northeast Coordination Committee will be formed to enable states to develop their own plans and ensure effective coordination among all Northeastern states.

Another major focus area will be the establishment of a rules clinic to train and produce referees from the Northeast, strengthening the region’s officiating structure. Additionally, a dedicated coach, funded by the IGU, will be appointed for the entire Northeast.

In a significant boost to training infrastructure, the IGU will provide the region with a full swing kit launch monitor, an advanced training device used by elite golfers. Notably, only eight such units exist in the country, and one will be exclusively allocated to the Northeast, carried by the appointed coach to support serious golfers.

IPL for Cricket; NEGL for Golf !

The officials also revealed that the Government of India is planning to launch the Northeast Golf League (NEGL), envisioned on the lines of the Indian Premier League (IPL). The proposed league will feature four to six teams, with team owners, player auctions, and a franchise-based format similar to IPL. A similar model is already being implemented in Mumbai.

The IGU has invited Northeastern sponsors and stakeholders to actively participate in the league, stating that the initiative will not only promote golf but also create new opportunities for players, coaches, and sports entrepreneurs in the region.

The press conference was attended by IGU Secretary Shashank Sandu, Director General & CEO Bibhuti Bhusan, and Treasurer Sanjeev Rattan, marking a major milestone in the journey of golf development in Northeast India.

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