Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India invites applications for upcoming 89th edition of the Know India Programme (KIP) for the Cohort of 'Scholars and Innovators' who are both NRIs and PIOs in the age group of 18-23 years, in India scheduled to be organised from 15-29 September, 2026.  The Programme is open to youth of Indian origin, including Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs), as well as Non-Resident Indians (NRIs).

In this connection, as you are aware, KIP is a flagship initiative of this Ministry aimed at strengthening engagement and connecting the young members of the Indian diaspora with their ancestral roots while providing them an opportunity to experience and appreciate contemporary India's remarkable growth and development across diverse sectors as the country progresses towards Viksit Bharat @2047. The Programme seeks to acquaint participants with India's rich cultural heritage, economic transformation, innovations and start-up ecosystem, scientific and technological advancements, and other significant facets of contemporary India. The Programme also aims to motivate and inspire young members of the Indian diaspora to contribute to and participate in India's developmental journey.

Since its inception, this Ministry has successfully organized 87 editions of the Programme with the participation of 3,153 young members of the Indian diaspora and the 88th edition of KIP is currently underway with 25 participants from 23 countries across the globe.

Interested individuals may submit scanned copy of duly filled Application Form and required documents to the Consulate General of India, Chicago by email on pic.chicago@mea.gov.in by 27 August 2026 respectively.

KIP Application Form 2026

New KIP Guidelines 2026