Golf foundation partners with R&A to boost Indian talent

Indian golf is set to enter a new era as The Golf Foundation (TGF), the country’s leading charity supporting underprivileged golf talent, announced a landmark partnership with The R&A Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the world’s oldest golf governing body. The collaboration was marked with a Gala Dinner at The Quorum, Gurugram, attended by leaders from sport, business, and philanthropy.

Representing The R&A Foundation were Neal Graham, Development Manager for Middle East & India; Caroline Wallard, Director of Philanthropy; and Olivia McMillan from the communications team. From TGF, Founder and President Amit Luthra, an Asian Games gold medallist and Arjuna Award recipient, and CEO Angad Luthra were present for the signing ceremony.

Although unable to attend in person, Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Dr Mansukh Mandaviya shared his support through a recorded video message, praising the partnership as a “remarkable milestone for Indian sport” that would strengthen grassroots systems and ensure opportunities for young golfers from all backgrounds.

For 25 years, TGF has worked to take golf from “village greens to global dreams,” identifying and nurturing talent from economically weaker sections of society. Alumni include Ashok Kumar, Rashid Khan, Chikkarangappa, Honey Baisoya, and Manu Gandas on the Asian and European Tours; Shubham Jaglan on the Canadian PGA Tour; and Khushi Hooda, Pranavi Urs, Hitaashee Bakshi, and Diksha Dagar in women’s professional circuits. Rising stars such as Danish Verma, Anshul Mishra, Mannat Brar, and Sakshity Purendre are among the Foundation’s latest prospects.

TGF is currently running the third edition of its Pan-India Talent Hunt, in partnership with BMW India Foundation, to discover new talent from economically weaker communities. The Foundation is also scouting locations for future academies in Faridkot, Aurangabad, and Coorg, aiming to provide grassroots players with world-class training facilities closer to home.

The R&A Foundation, based in St Andrews, Scotland, supports initiatives in accessibility, sustainability, heritage, and youth development across more than 160 countries. The partnership will focus on expanding grassroots programmes, upgrading training infrastructure, and creating international pathways for Indian juniors.

“This collaboration is not just about golf; it is about opportunity, inclusion, and legacy,” said Amit Luthra. “Together with The R&A Foundation, we can take Indian talent to the world stage while strengthening grassroots sport at home.”

The Gala Dinner featured speeches from both organisations, a film highlighting TGF’s impact, and the unveiling of the joint TGF–R&A partnership logo, signalling a new chapter for Indian golf.