Arhan Bagati honoured with prestigious HT 30 Under 30 Award in Social Impact Leaders category
Srinagar, Feb 21: Kashmiri social innovator and public policy scholar Arhan Bagati has been recognized as Hindustan Times’ 30 Under 30 Awardee in the Social Impact Leaders category for his transformative work in Jammu & Kashmir and beyond.
The award ceremony, held at Mumbai’s ITC Grand Central on February 21, 2025, celebrated young leaders driving change across India.
Unable to attend due to academic commitments at Harvard UnivAnubha Bagati, who received the award, shared her pride: “Arhan’s work is rooted in our Kashmiri heritage and his desire to uplift marginalized communities. This recognition is a testament to his relentless dedication.” ersity, Bagati’s mother, Anubha Bagati, accepted the accolade on his behalf, marking a proud moment for the family and the region.
The HT 30 Under-30 honours young trailblazers reshaping industries through innovation and societal impact. Bagati was lauded for his leadership in founding KYARI (Kashmir’s Yumberzal Applied Research Institute), which addresses regional challenges in education, sustainability, and women’s empowerment, and for his advocacy for para-athletes as India’s youngest Deputy Chef de Mission at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics.
Currently pursuing a Master’s in Public Policy at Harvard University, Bagati remains deeply connected to Kashmir. KYARI’s initiatives—from advocating for tribal pastoralists to combating youth drug abuse—highlight his commitment to grassroots change. As the Awareness and Impact Ambassador for the Paralympic Committee of India, Bagati has championed inclusivity through platforms like LetsEnable.com and apps supporting athletes’ training and accessibility. His recent role cheering for Team India at the Paris 2024 Paralympics further underscores his dedication.
In a statement, Bagati emphasized, “This award fuels my resolve to amplify Kashmir’s voice globally. Through KYARI and policy advocacy, I aim to create opportunities that empower our youth and preserve our cultural legacy.”
Arhan Bagati’s recognition by Hindustan Times not only celebrates his achievements but also shines a light on Kashmir’s potential as a hub of innovation and inclusivity. As he continues to bridge global education with local impact, Bagati’s story serves as an inspiration for aspiring changemakers across India.
