By Vishal Bharti Jammu, Feb 2 (Reporter) Prime Minister Narendra Modi suggested me to visit to the Jammu and Kashmir so that lot of talented kids can be benefitted under “Bhoomi” program for underprivileged and this made the ‘Rohan Bopanna Tennis Academy’ conduct selection trials in this beautiful region, revealed tennis legend Rohan Bopanna. Bopanna, who was here in Jammu after wrapping up his Srinagar visit, exclusively speaking to UNI said, “after winning the Australian Open 2024 men's doubles title, I got the opportunity to meet the Prime Minister Narendra Modi and he suggested me to visit to the Jammu and Kashmir when I briefed him about the “Bhoomi” program for underprivileged.” “The PM suggested that why not try Jammu and Kashmir. Lot of children can be benefitted from this sport. So, I took his advice and visited here,” the tennis stalwart said. World Number 1, Bopanna, who is in mid of his 40s, further sharing his experiences on maiden visit to Jammu and Kashmir said, “this is my first visit to J&K and I am extremely happy. “Bhoomi” program initiative for the underprivileged, is the key reason for which I am here.” Under “Bhoomi” program supported by Kamal India Foundation, UK, selected kids between the age group of 8 to 11 years are to be provided free boarding and lodging, free education (CBSE syllabus up to 10th standard), comprehensive tennis training at the Sports School in Bengaluru (home to the Rohan Bopanna Tennis Academy), and free air tickets to their hometowns during vacations, he elaborated and said, “This noble initiative got the wings last year when we visited to parts of the North-East and picked up 20 such children for the sports school.” Bopanna said that following the PM's suggestion, he spoke to the donor (Kamal India Foundation, UK) and visited Jammu and Kashmir thereafter. “We found a lot of talent in Srinagar as well as in Jammu and once we go back, will make an assessment and figure out on the final selection,” said the tennis star. Bopanna, who also met the Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, expressed gratitude to the government for all support. Sharing the motive behind this one of its kind initiatives, Bopanna said, “Tennis is always seen as an elite sport but I want to change that narrative and want to bring it to everyone to give that opportunity to all those who want to play this sport.” He stated that athletic abilities with hand-eye coordination are key basics being looked at the time of selection process, adding. “J&K has amazing talent. Drive is there but needs a direction based opportunity.” “J&K has a lot to offer and I will keep visiting. I am glad and thankful to the Prime Minister for guiding us to this place,” said Bopanna. However, on sharing his first reaction after being titled as World Number 1, he expressed, “There is no limitation and it is an opportunity to go and give your best. Believe it in yourself first to make it possible. I am proud to have become World Number 1 in spite of the people all over the world.” Bopanna also called on Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha at the Raj Bhawan and briefed him about his endeavour to nurture and shape the young talent of Jammu Kashmir and provide them sporting and educational opportunities at his tennis academy in Bengaluru under the programme for empowering children from underprivileged sections, a collaborative initiative by Rohan Bopanna Tennis Academy and Kamal India Foundation. He informed that the children selected from Jammu division as well as from Kashmir division will receive free boarding, lodging, education and comprehensive tennis training at Bengaluru. The Lieutenant Governor appreciated the ace Tennis Player for his noble initiative to empower the children belonging to underprivileged sections of the society through sports and education. Meanwhile the tennis courts at Jammu’s Maulana Azad Stadium remained jam-packed with the sports lovers and enthusiasts to have a glimpse of the legend sharing moments and giving tips to the young brigade. “Rohan Bopanna Tennis Academy conducted selection trials for its "Bhoomi" Programme at M A Stadium in Jammu in a significant boost for aspiring young tennis players from underprivileged backgrounds,” said a Sports Council official. The initiative, complemented by the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council, aims to provide comprehensive tennis training and education to talented children, he said...////...