ArhanBagati, a Kashmiri youth changemaker and founder of KYARI (Kashmir’s Yumberzal Applied Research Institute), was honoured with the ET Indo Global Leaders Award for Excellence in Social Impact at a prestigious ceremony in Dubai. The award was presented by actor and philanthropist KunalKapoor at the Al Habtoor Palace, recognizing Bagati’s outstanding efforts in driving social transformation across Jammu & Kashmir.
Currently pursuing a Master’s in Public Policy at Harvard University, Bagati has emerged as a dedicated advocate for sustainable development and community empowerment in Kashmir. Through KYARI, he has launched a series of impactful initiatives that range from promoting tribal welfare and curbing youth drug abuse, to boosting eco-tourism and supporting women-led entrepreneurship.
The award also acknowledged his efforts to bring Bollywood and film crews back to Kashmir, notably co-producing Ground Zero,boosting local tourism and cultural economy.
“This recognition isn’t just mine – it belongs to everyone striving to make Kashmir a beacon of hope, inclusion, and innovation,” Bagati said, reaffirming his commitment to social impact through policy and purpose.
Bagati’s academic journey spans Pomona College, the University of Cambridge, and now Harvard, yet his vision remains rooted in Kashmir. KYARI has spearheaded research initiatives across rural tourism, climate change, tribal communities, waste management, women’s empowerment, eco-mobility and more.
Earlier in 2025, Bagati was also named in the Hindustan Times 30 Under 30 Social Impact Leadership list — a tribute to his youth-led innovation and policy-driven change in J&K.
The ET Indo Global Leaders Awards, organised by the Times of India, honours individuals worldwide who successfully catalyse positive change through leadership, innovation, and compassion.
ArhanBagati’s achievement is a milestone for J&K — a reminder of the transformative potential of youth-led social entrepreneurship in the region.
As the Awareness and Impact Ambassador for the Paralympic Committee of India, he has developed digital platforms such as LetsEnable.com and apps like InRio and IndTokyo, assisting athletes with disabilities. His roles in the 2020 Tokyo and Paris 2024 Paralympics further underscore his engagement in inclusive development.
The award also acknowledged his efforts to bring Bollywood and film crews back to Kashmir — notably co-producing Ground Zero — boosting local tourism and cultural economy.
As the Awareness and Impact Ambassador for the Paralympic Committee of India, Bagati has also championed accessibility and inclusivity by developing digital tools and platforms like LetsEnable.com for athletes with disabilities. His active role in the Paris 2024 Paralympics and continuous advocacy further highlight his deep engagement with national development through inclusive means.
The award also reflects his contribution in reviving cinematic interest in Kashmir, encouraging Bollywood filmmakers and production houses to return to the Valley, thereby revitalizing local tourism and cultural economy.
Expressing his thoughts on receiving the honour, Bagati said,
“This recognition isn’t just mine, it belongs to everyone striving to make Kashmir a beacon of hope, inclusion, and innovation. It renews my commitment to use policy and purpose to shape a more empowered tomorrow.”
Bagati’s journey spans top global institutions like Pomona College, the University of Cambridge, and Harvard University, but his heart and mission remain rooted in the Valley. His approach blends world-class policy thinking with ground-level action, making KYARI a respected name in grassroots innovation.
The ET Indo Global Leaders Awards, a Times of India initiative, honours exemplary individuals worldwide who are catalyzing positive change in their communities through leadership, innovation, and compassion.
