CM Omar Pledges to Elevate Jammu Tawi Golf Course to National Golfing Hub

SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday reaffirmed his government’s commitment to developing the Jammu Tawi Golf Course (JTGC), Sidhra, into a premier national golfing destination, stating that Jammu’s golfing potential had long remained under-promoted.

Addressing a felicitation ceremony for paragliders who completed their training at JTGC, Abdullah said that while major golf tournaments are already being held in Srinagar, Pahalgam and Gulmarg, Jammu deserved a greater share of golfing events. He described the course as “exceptionally beautiful and of high quality” and pledged increased efforts to promote it and host more national-level competitions.

The Chief Minister said the government was working to strengthen Jammu’s economic base and enhance its position on India’s tourism map. He reiterated that the administration’s focus extended from Jammu city to the remotest areas of the province, with multiple development initiatives underway.

Highlighting Jammu’s diverse tourism offerings—heritage, pilgrimage, border and adventure tourism—Abdullah emphasised the need for improved facilities to attract more visitors and unlock the region’s full potential.

He praised the introduction of new tourism initiatives, including upgraded tourist bus services. A new bus dedicated to border tourism was inaugurated during the event, which the Chief Minister described as a significant addition to the region’s tourism infrastructure.

Earlier, Abdullah laid the foundation stone for an Indoor Swimming Pool at JTGC, a major sports infrastructure project. He also flagged off the Jammu Gedi Bus Service to improve connectivity to key destinations such as Surinsar-Mansar and Suchetgarh.

Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, Transport Minister Satish Sharma, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, MLA Yudhvir Sethi, senior officials and tourism authorities were present at the event.