Welcome
I am a PhD Candidate at the University of Amsterdam (UvA) in the Department of Geography, Planning and International Development Studies (GPIO). My research explores the dynamic landscapes of socio-technical transitions, focusing on the influence of narratives in bottom-up mobility innovations.
With a background spanning mechanical engineering, ecology, and sustainable development from the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), my work is deeply rooted in organizing for societal grand challenges in Global South contexts, spatial planning, and inclusive development.
Education
For full details on my academic trajectory, download my full CV as a PDF.
Dissertation: "Understanding the Influence of Narratives on the Process of Bottom-Up Mobility Innovations."
Supervisors: Prof. Marco te Brömmelstroet & Dr. Hebe Verrest.
Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Guwahati, India.
Thesis: "Assessing Integration of Electric Vehicles and Its Environmental and Social Impact in Assam, India"
St. Vincent Pallotti College of Engineering and Technology, Nagpur University, India.
Research & Professional Experience
Conducting doctoral research on the influence of narratives on bottom-up mobility innovation. Developing and applying qualitative research methods including narrative analysis, semi-structured interviews, and fieldwork.
Conducted monitoring and evaluation of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects for corporate clients. Contributed to the design, assessment, and reporting of CSR interventions using programme evaluation frameworks.
Project: "Capacity Building on Climate Change Vulnerability and Risk Assessment in the States of India." Led extensive stakeholder engagement and trained over 100 central and state government officials. Contributed to an official Government of India report on climate change vulnerability.
Media, Web & Public Engagement
A selection of my podcast appearances, conference presentations, and published articles advocating for sustainable mobility, marginalized voices, and equitable planning.
Podcast & Video Appearances
- Podcast: Talk That Science (Echobox Radio). Discussed the evolution of electric rickshaws in India and how bottom-up mobility parallels the historical rise of bicycles in the Netherlands. Listen Here
- Public Talk: Introducing the Netherlands (Studium Generale - Tilburg University). Panel discussion reflecting on mobility networks, storytelling, and problem-solving through public participation. Watch Here
- Podcast: Guest appearance on Spotify discussing themes of sustainability and inclusion. Listen on Spotify
Selected Articles (Roundtable India)
- Dalit University: Do we need it? (2017)
- Why am I celebrating Diwali and Dusshera? (2017)
- Why I celebrate Bhim Jayanti? (2017)
- War: Win win time for the ruling class (2016)
- Media: The oppressor's tool to divide and rule (2016)
Conference Presentations & Working Papers
- Bagde, V. (In Preparation). Position paper on Electric 3 wheelers in South Asia.
- Bagde, V. (2025, October). Contesting regime: Bottom-up mobility innovations. T2M Annual Conference, Eindhoven University of Technology.
- Bagde, V. (2024, September). Reimagining innovation paradigm: Potential of Bottom-up approaches in sustainable mobility. Tensions of Europe Conference, Germany.
Teaching & Academic Leadership
Teaching Experience
Academic Service
- PhD Representative (2022-2024): Elected liaison between PhD candidates and departmental leadership at GPIO, UvA.
- Organiser: Annual Research Day, GPIO, UvA (June 2024).
- Logistics Coordinator: Cycling Research Board Conference (October 2022).
- Founder: Writing Club for Researchers.
- Co-founder: Intuition Study Circle, TISS Guwahati.
- Founder & Organiser: Resistance Week, TISS Guwahati (December 2017).
Off the Clock: Hobbies & Pursuits
When I am not deep into urban planning research or writing, you will likely find me outside. I balance academic rigor with creative and physical pursuits, primarily focusing on wildlife photography, leather crafting, and running.
Challenge Me!
Do you have a half-marathon you are training for? A bespoke leather project idea? Or a lead on a great birding trail near Amsterdam? Let's connect. I am always open to a friendly run or a creative collaboration.