Is Amitabh Kant the Newest Governing Body Member of PGTI?
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Synopsis
Amitabh Kant's appointment to PGTI's governing body marks a new chapter for Indian golf. His extensive experience in governance and passion for the sport promise to bolster the future of professional golf in India. Discover how this decision could shape the landscape of golf in the nation and the significance of industry leaders joining the effort.
Key Takeaways
- Amitabh Kant joins PGTI's governing body.
- Known for his transformative work in governance.
- His experience includes launching significant tourism campaigns.
- PGTI aims to enhance professional golf in India.
- Collaboration with corporate leaders for strategic growth.
New Delhi, Sep 12 (NationPress) The Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) has welcomed Amitabh Kant, the former CEO of Niti Aayog and India's G20 Sherpa, as its latest addition to the governing body.
Amitabh Kant stands out as one of India’s leading bureaucrats and policy innovators, renowned for his impactful work in national governance. His legacy intertwines grassroots innovation, policy reform, strategic diplomacy, and national branding—solidifying his role as a pivotal architect in the transformation of modern India.
During his tenure as tourism secretary in Kerala, Kant played a crucial role in positioning the state as a top tourist destination, famously popularizing the slogan “Kerala: God's Own Country.” As Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, he was the mastermind behind the renowned “Incredible India” and “Atithi Devo Bhava” campaigns, designed to elevate India's status as a premier tourist locale.
While serving as Secretary of the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP), Kant spearheaded pivotal initiatives like “Make in India,” “Start Up India,” and “Ease of Doing Business.”
Moreover, Kant is an enthusiastic golfer whose commitment to the sport aligns seamlessly with PGTI's mission to cultivate talent and promote excellence in Indian golf.
The PGTI also revealed its collaboration with distinguished business leaders Pradeep S Bakshi, Shantanu Narayen, and Nikesh Arora, who are joining in advisory capacities.
The inclusion of Amitabh Kant as a governing body member, alongside Bakshi, Narayen, and Arora as advisors, reflects PGTI's ongoing dedication to fortifying the strategic trajectory of Indian professional golf and driving the Tour's long-term development.
Kapil Dev, President of PGTI, expressed, “We are excited to have Mr. Amitabh Kant join our Governing Body. His profound expertise, extensive experience, leadership acumen, and strategic vision will be invaluable as we strive to establish a world-class platform for professional golf in India. We anticipate that Kant’s insights will be crucial in elevating the tour’s profile, broadening its reach, and creating new opportunities for our talented golfers. This marks a significant advancement for Indian golf, and we eagerly look forward to collaborating with Kant to elevate the sport in our nation.
“Additionally, we are pleased to welcome three visionary corporate leaders—Pradeep S Bakshi, Shantanu Narayen, and Nikesh Arora—as advisors to PGTI. Their strategic insights and experience will be instrumental in propelling Indian professional golf to new heights and providing our players the platform they rightfully deserve.”
Upon his appointment to the PGTI governing body, Amitabh Kant remarked, “I am delighted to join the Governing Body of the Professional Golf Tour of India, an organization led by the legendary Kapil Dev and one that has significantly contributed to the growth of India's professional golf scene. I am eager to work with PGTI’s dynamic leadership team by leveraging my strategic experience to cultivate a robust ecosystem for our players. As an avid golfer, I have witnessed the remarkable talent and potential within Indian golf. I am dedicated to advancing PGTI’s vision and shaping the future of professional golf in India.”
Leading Indian professional golfer Ajeetesh Sandhu, a two-time international champion who continues to represent India globally, has also been appointed as a governing body member of PGTI.
Point of View
The appointment of Amitabh Kant to PGTI's governing body is a strategic move that reflects the growing importance of professional sports in India. Kant's experience and vision could play a critical role in shaping the future of golf, aligning with the nation's broader goals of sports development and international recognition.
NationPress
12/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Amitabh Kant?
Amitabh Kant is a prominent Indian bureaucrat, known for his former role as CEO of Niti Aayog and his work as India’s G20 Sherpa.
What is PGTI?
The Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) is an organization that promotes professional golf in India, providing a platform for golfers to compete and develop their skills.
What campaigns did Amitabh Kant initiate?
Amitabh Kant was instrumental in launching campaigns like 'Incredible India' and 'Atithi Devo Bhava' which aimed at boosting tourism in India.
What is the significance of Kant's appointment?
Kant's appointment is significant as it brings a wealth of experience in governance and sports promotion, which can help elevate the stature of professional golf in India.
Who else was appointed alongside Kant?
Alongside Amitabh Kant, corporate leaders Pradeep S Bakshi, Shantanu Narayen, and Nikesh Arora were also appointed as advisors to PGTI.
