Once a year, a special train sets off from Mumbai, not for travellers but for young Indians who wish to change lives of others for the better. Covering nearly 8,000 kilometres across India in 15 days, the Jagriti Yatra is a one-of-a-kind annual train journey that brings together more than 500 young people with one mission: to build India through enterprise.
Started in 2008 by Jagriti Sewa Sansthanm, which is a non-profit organization, Jagriti Yatra has now completed over 15 editions. Thousands of its alumni have gone on to launch startups, join social initiatives, or become leaders in their own communities. Many say it was the most eye-opening experience of their lives, a journey that didn’t just show them India, but helped them find their own path too.

All About Jagriti Yatra: Who Can Go And How

The idea behind Jagriti Yatra is simple yet powerful: take young changemakers, especially from small towns and rural areas, and show them the India they don’t usually see. Over two weeks, the train travels across the length and breadth of the country, stopping in cities, villages, and innovation hubs where real-world heroes are solving everyday problems through entrepreneurship.
The journey for 2025 will start on 7th November 2025 and end on 22nd November. Along the way, participants—known as Yatris—meet social entrepreneurs, grassroots leaders who have built schools, hospitals, companies, and movements from scratch. The goal is to inspire the Yatris to start something of their own, something that creates change.
Young people between the ages of 20 to 27 can apply, especially those from smaller towns and rural India, what the Yatra calls “Middle India.” The selection process ensures diversity in every batch, with a balanced mix of participants from different regions, backgrounds and genders. Every year, the Yatra also welcomes around 20 international candidates who add a global perspective to this journey.
To apply, candidates must fill out an online application that includes a series of essay-style questions. These help the selection panel (which includes 30+ experts from across the world) understand each applicant’s entrepreneurial spirit. There may also be reference checks and short interviews. There’s also a separate process for those who want to join as facilitators, who help coordinate and guide the experience. Their applications are evaluated based on professional experience and communication skills.

What Does Jagriti Yatra Cost?

The Jagriti Yatra program fee is ₹1,00,000. However, scholarships are available for those who need financial support, especially from economically weaker backgrounds.