SRINAGAR: A unique opportunity has opened up for young people in Kashmir, as the MOOL Sustainability Research and Training Center, Ganderbal, in collaboration with Royal Enfield, has announced the launch of the RISE UP: The Sustainable Kashmir Fellowships 2025–2026, aimed at cultivating purpose-driven leadership and ecological entrepreneurship among local youth.
The seven-month intensive fellowship, scheduled to run from July 2025 to February 2026, is designed to equip 10 selected fellows with practical tools, mentorship, and field experiences to address the ecological and socio-economic challenges of Kashmir while building sustainable livelihoods.
Applications are currently open for youth aged 18 to 30 from across Jammu and Kashmir, with the last date to apply being June 10, 2025. Selection will take place through a three-stage process involving a written application, phone interview, and final interview. The application form is available online.
The fellowship offers a curriculum covering personal leadership, ecological entrepreneurship, and service-oriented career design. Fellows will participate in residential workshops in Kashmir, undergo field immersion in the Himachal Pradesh mountains, and complete a two-month internship with partner organisations. Each fellow will receive one-on-one mentorship from experienced coaches and entrepreneurs, in addition to a monthly performance-based stipend.
Last year’s fellows described the programme as life-changing. “The journey was transformative, helping me turn my interests into a true passion,” said Nusrat Farooq, a fellow from the 2024–2025 cohort. “It nurtures growth, encourages exploration, and empowers individuals to create real impact.”
One of the fellowship’s key distinctions is its combination of local grounding and broader exposure. Through its partnership with The Himalayan Hub in Himachal Pradesh and the integration of learning sessions with on-ground community collaboration, RISE UP offers a holistic development path for aspiring changemakers.
For queries, interested applicants can write to moolsustainability@gmail.com or contact 9622565003.
