Srinagar, Oct 13 : The potential of golf to generate employment for Kashmir’s youth and attract sports tourists came into focus at a caddy golf tournament held at Kashmir Golf Course here on Tuesday, with participants calling for greater recognition and career opportunities for those associated with the sport.
The tournament, titled ‘Swing in Autumn’, was organised by hotelier and entrepreneur Akib Chaya under the banner of Hilltop Hotels, bringing together caddies, senior golfers and representatives of the tourism and hospitality sectors.
Speaking on the occasion, Chaya said caddies played an important role in sustaining golf but often lacked recognition and opportunities for professional advancement.
“Our caddies are an integral part of the golfing community, and they deserve recognition, encouragement and opportunities to grow,” he said.
Chaya, who learnt golf at Kashmir Golf Course, said the sport could provide an alternative source of employment for young people, particularly amid concerns over unemployment and drug abuse.
He said young people entering the sport as caddies could gradually acquire skills and pursue careers as professional golfers, certified instructors or course professionals, including opportunities outside the country.
“A young person starting out as a caddy today can aspire to become a professional golfer, a certified instructor, a course professional or even pursue opportunities in the international golfing industry,” he said.
Highlighting Kashmir’s potential as a golf tourism destination, Chaya said the region’s golf courses, natural surroundings and hospitality infrastructure could help attract visitors interested in the sport.
He also said golf offered opportunities for participation across age groups, making it a platform for community engagement, mentorship and healthy recreation.
National Conference leaders Salman Sagar and Ehsan Pardesi attended the tournament as guests of honour.
Senior golfers Ashraf Bakshi, Javed Bakshi, Sohail Kirmani, Ghulam Rasool Guroo, Usman Fazil, Manzoor Abbas and Sameer Bhat were also present.
Among those attending were Hoteliers Club president Mushtaq Chaya, Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Tariq Ghani, J&K Hajj and Umrah Services president Sheikh Feroz, Eco Tourism president Sameer Baktoo, Amar Singh Club honorary secretary Nasir Hamid Khan and Hoteliers Club joint secretary Murad Kapra.
Participants discussed the importance of supporting the caddy community and encouraging young people to explore employment opportunities associated with golf and tourism.
The event concluded with calls for greater support to local caddies, youth participation in sports and efforts to develop Kashmir’s golf tourism sector. (KNS)
