Arhan Bagati, a Harvard policy scholar and Kashmiri social entrepreneur, has been recognized in India’s prestigious Hindustan Times 30 Under 30 list for his work in education, disability rights, and community development. His initiatives, particularly in supporting para-athletes and marginalized communities, continue to drive social change.
Kashmiri-born Arhan Bagati, a Harvard University scholar in public policy, has been named among Hindustan Times’ 30 Under 30 Social Impact Leaders for his contributions to grassroots development, disability rights, and policy-driven community reform in India.
Bagati, who could not attend the February 21, 2025, award ceremony in Mumbai, had his mother, Anubha Bagati, accept the honor on his behalf. She described the recognition as a milestone for Kashmiri youth striving for meaningful change.
Bagati’s organization, KYARI (Kashmir’s Yumberzal Applied Research Institute), addresses education, sustainability, and women’s empowerment, working closely with communities in Jammu & Kashmir. His advocacy for para-athletes, including his role as Deputy Chef de Mission at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, has positioned him as a key figure in India’s disability rights movement.
Under his leadership, KYARI has launched anti-drug abuse campaigns, policy research for tribal pastoralists, and digital tools like LetsEnable.com, aimed at improving accessibility for disabled athletes. His commitment to bridging international expertise with local action was evident when he attended the Paris 2024 Paralympics, supporting Indian para-athletes on the global stage.
In a statement, Bagati remarked, “This honor is not just about me—it’s about the future of Kashmir. We must harness innovation and policy to create lasting impact for our youth.”
His recognition as a top social innovator reflects the growing potential of policy-driven grassroots solutions in regions like Kashmir, where social inclusion and development remain critical priorities.