KYARI
Manifesting The Hope & Positivity Of The Yumberzal
The Yumberzal is a native indigenous flower (Narcissus) in the region of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). The blooming of the Yumberzal is seen as a sign indicating the end of a long, gruelling & harsh winter, as well as the beginning of a beautiful summer. KYARI, which also means ‘flowerbed’ in Hindi, reflects the essence and hope of the Yumberzal and aims to bring positivity in the society with our research that drives change.
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KYARI – Kashmir's Yumberzal Applied Research Institute is a private research organisation headquartered in Srinagar, India. KYARI is powered by the belief that academic research paves the way for debates, discussions and ultimately, decision-making in matters of public policy. Our focus is to conduct Applied Research on a broad spectrum of topics that impact civic and social issues in J&K. We hope to identify developmental issues in the region and subsequently provide effective, efficient, and economical solutions for the same.
Based on our study and research, we aim to develop policy papers on various issues like Education, Sanitation, Electricity, Tourism, Conservation, Economic Empowerment of Women and others affecting the J&K region and more. Our mission is to focus on the developmental issues hindering the economic and social growth of the Union Territory. We will conduct deep dives into district-wise issues, creating papers that we aim to publish in internationally acclaimed journals, while simultaneously striving to achieve tangible change in society.
KYARI will be a trusted grassroots level partner in Kashmir, offering credible, agile and responsive research solutions to institutions, governments, and civic bodies.
Our People
Meet the KYARI Team
Founder
Arhan Bagati
KYARI is managed by a team of dynamic youngsters under the leadership of Arhan Bagati. A Kashmiri Pandit by birth, Arhan is the founder of and driving force behind KYARI. After his International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IBDP), he completed his Liberal Arts education with a Bachelor of Arts in Politics (specialization Comparative Politics) and in Asian Studies (with a concentration on India), from one of the best undergraduate institutes in the world - Pomona College, USA. He was also selected for a semester abroad at the University of Cambridge, perusing Law, Politics, Creative Writing, and Modern Art.
He is the Awareness and Impact Ambassador of the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) and has been spearheading the growth of the Paralympic Movement in India since 2014. He founded LetsEnable.com and launched the mobile apps InRio and IndTokyo to assist the Indian Paralympic athletes. He also sponsored a few Paralympic Athletes, including Mariyappan Thangavelu and Varun Singh Bhati, who won Gold and Bronze respectively in High Jump at the Rio Paralympic Games of 2016. Arhan also lead the Indian Paralympic contingent for the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic games held in August-September 2021 as the youngest in the world and first ever - Deputy Chef De Mission from India.. Credit goes to the PCI for its vision to promote the youth who can contribute to the growth of the Paralympic Movement.
Some of his other skills & achievements include writing and publishing on a wide range of topics like national security, J&K, and other current events, at prestigious platforms including Firstpost, The Quint, Greater Kashmir, and more. Currently, he has moved back to his native place in Kashmir and is involved full-time in establishing and growing KYARI as a premier research institute in the region.
Research Associates
Bijoy Basant Patro
Bijoy Basant Patro is a development writer, editor and journalist with over 20 years of experience in the humanitarian and development sector. He loves learning about – and writing on – the journeys of people and communities. His canvas of journalism extends well across the regions, sectors, and prominent organisations like OneWorld SouthAsia, International Federation of Red Cross, etc.
Prior to his association with the development and the humanitarian sector, he worked for a range of media, mainly in print journalism – covering a range of development beats, including agriculture and rural development. A fellow of the prestigious KK Birla Foundation, Bijoy came to Kashmir to explore KYARI & its contribution to the lives of people. He's actively engaged with the organisation to design a multipronged programme in consultation with local communities.
Safina Nabi
Safina Nabi, a Kashmir-based multimedia journalist, excels in reporting on topics like human rights, gender, and conflict. Her work has graced numerous esteemed publications such as The Guardian, Aljazeera, and Slate. Recognized for her impactful work, Safina has secured grants and fellowships from the Pulitzer Center, the U.S State Department, and others. Her award-winning investigation in 2021 on the property rights of "Half widows" in Kashmir stands as a testament to her prowess. This work has not only earned her accolades but has also sparked critical discourse on women's rights.
Collaborating with KYARI, Safina brings her passion for societal change, particularly on women's issues. She looks forward to working with the like-minded team at KYARI and envisions it as an avenue for further professional growth and opportunities.
Sanya Jain
Sanya Jain, the young climate campaigner aspires to contribute towards KYARI's aim of bringing a positive change in the society. Through her experience, education, and innovation, she looks forward to serve the people. Sanya has a penchant for understanding the very minute reasons behind climate change and its impact on society; and how anthropogenic activities are one the core reasons behind the increasing environmental problems Working as a Research Associate with KYARI, she is on her mission to highlight and address such issues, and gain new experiences on the way.
Research Interns
Parth Jain
Parth, a 12th-grade student from Jayshree Periwal International School, Jaipur, is a notable achiever. He's an award-winning public speaker who also teaches the skill to underprivileged students. As a community leader, he presides over his school's Student Council and Editorial Board, and interns with the State Government on the MGNREGA scheme. He's also the founder of a digital platform facilitating student volunteering.
As he steps into his role as a Research Intern at KYARI, he aims to utilize his robust analytical and writing skills to promote grassroots development. Equipped with experience from researching e-cigarettes and rigorous academic training in the IB program, Parth is well-prepared for this significant responsibility.
Sonali Garg
Sonali Garg, with a Bachelor of Science (Honors) in Psychology and currently advancing her studies at Ashoka University, brings her passion for social justice to KYARI. Inspired by the potential of research to shape discourse and policy, she is set to contribute to a vital research paper on Kashmir.
Leveraging her academic background and experience, Sonali will explore significant aspects of the research paper through a psychological lens. Her goal is to gather insights to inform a thorough analysis and provide avenues for policy development. With her dedication, cultural sensitivity, and data-driven approach, Sonali is eager to contribute to KYARI's mission.
Anoushka Reddy
A driven high school senior, joins KYARI as a Research Intern. Fueled by a keen interest in international relations, public policy, and economics, Anoushka brings a record of youth advocacy, policy formulation, and community service. As the founder of The Blu-Prnt, she has championed youth perspectives on global issues. Her experiences range from launching sustainable housing initiatives to leading crowdfunding campaigns. A passionate writer and podcaster, she continues to use her platform to engage with social justice topics. Anoushka is eager to advance KYARI’s mission and contribute her insights to public policy decision-making.
Anoushka is currently honing her academic understanding at Oakridge International School, Telangana, with a focus on English, Economics, Business Studies, Psychology, and Applied Maths. Her involvement in diverse committees, clubs, and competitions underscores her leadership abilities and dedication.
Arssh Kumar
Arssh brings a fervent passion for research to his role. With a unique philosophy underpinning his approach to knowledge, he delves deep into subjects of interest while also maintaining a broad understanding of various topics. Having a personal bond with Kashmir from his early childhood, he values the opportunity to contribute to a region close to his heart.
A keen follower of trends in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, space technology, and the stock market, Arssh is currently pursuing the IB curriculum at JPIS, Jaipur. His past internship at WhiteLint Global Pvt. Ltd., enriches his practical experience. With future aspirations to study either CS or Astrophysics, Arssh's dedication to learning and his professional experiences make him a valuable asset to KYARI.
Interns
Maahira Mahajan
Maahira Mahajan is a high school student at UWC Atlantic in the UK, and has a deep-rooted passion for writing and learning about current affairs, particularly as they relate to Jammu and Kashmir. She values her cultural roots greatly and tirelessly advocates for her community.
KYARI has provided Maahira with a platform to express her insights on developmental issues. She cherishes this opportunity and is eager to contribute ideas towards collective efforts for improving this region. Her dedication to making a positive impact and her enthusiasm for learning make her an invaluable part of the KYARI team.
Aditya Mahajan
Aditya Mahajan, a high school student at UWC South East Asia in Singapore, brings a unique perspective on the realities of life in Jammu and Kashmir, often overlooked in wider narratives. His connection to J&K's culture and complexities is a cornerstone of his passion for KYARI's mission to highlight social and developmental issues in the region.
Working with KYARI has enabled Aditya to deepen his understanding of this region, and articulate his views on the challenges it encounters. He is ardently committed to furthering KYARI's goal of driving positive action and change. His passion and intimate understanding of this region make him an instrumental part of the team.
KYARI Ambassador
Iqra Rasool
Iqra Rasool, a national level cricketer, stands as a prominent figure amongst women cricketers and a symbol of women's empowerment in the sport. She is renowned throughout the Valley as an iconic player whose dynamic energy and youthful spirit inspire others to embrace cricket.
Her dedication and skill on the field have earned her multiple awards including the “We the Women” trophy in 2017 and the "Women of the Series" title in the Kashmir Premier League 2021. Consistently recognized as one of the best players and bowlers, Iqra has been a proud member of the senior women's national team since 2021. To further refine her skills, she joined the Aditya Cricket Academy in Kolkata, helmed by celebrated women's cricketer, Jhulan Goswami. Her enterprising spirit is evident as she continues to organize various cricket tournaments, truly embodying the essence of a KYARI Ambassador.
Office Personnel
Shabir Bhat
Shabir Bhat, a valued member of the KYARI team for nearly a year, has found his time with the organization to be transformative. Through his work at KYARI, Shabir has developed robust problem-solving skills and a heightened sense of discipline, professionalism, and focus. This role has also afforded him the chance to explore various places, broadening his perspective and knowledge.
Sageer Ahmed Kasana
Sageer Ahmad Kasana has been an integral part of KYARI since the past two years, appreciating the professionalism and discipline embedded in its work culture. He believes that the well-established reputation of KYARI makes it a coveted workplace for many. Sageer particularly values the organization's travel opportunities, allowing him to indulge his passion for exploring new cultures.
He looks forward to continuing his journey with KYARI, echoing his sentiment, "Long Live KYARI."
Digital Team
Gaurav Mehrotra
Gaurav Mehrotra is an accomplished corporate executive with over 25 years of experience. He is the founder of Webfries, a digital agency, specializing in digital marketing, artificial intelligence, and more.
The Webfries' team is well-equipped to provide the highest level of service and support, with a focus on delivering innovative solutions and a commitment to excellence.
Gaurav and his team have been involved with KYARI since its inception. They bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the table and are committed to assisting KYARI in reaching its objectives and succeeding in its endeavors.
What Do We Do?
Some of Our Focus Research Areas include, but are not limited to:
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Quality & Holistic Education
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Water, Sanitation & Hygiene
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Electricity Development
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Tourism & Travel
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Conservation & Sustainability
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Empowering Human Capital
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Economic Empowerment of Women
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Contact Info
Kashmir’s Yumberzal Applied Research Institute (KYARI)
Heevan Villa 1, Gupt Ganga, Ishber Nishat,
Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, India (191121)