89th Edition of Know India Programme for Scholars and Innovators (Italy)

Deadline: 27-Aug-2026

The Know India Programme (KIP) 2026 offers young Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs), and Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) aged 18–23 years an opportunity to reconnect with their Indian heritage while learning about contemporary India. The 89th edition, themed around scholars and innovators, will provide a structured two-week exposure visit featuring educational sessions, cultural experiences, institutional interactions, and insights into India’s development. What Is the Know India Programme? The Know India Programme is an initiative designed to connect young members of the Indian diaspora with India’s heritage, society, culture, institutions, and contemporary achievements. The programme combines learning, cultural immersion, educational exposure, and interaction to help participants develop a deeper understanding of India. The 89th edition places particular emphasis on scholars and innovators, giving participants opportunities to explore India’s academic, scientific, technological, and innovation landscape. What Is the 89th Edition of KIP? The 89th Edition of the Know India Programme is a two-week programme scheduled to take place in India from:

Start date: 15 September 2026

End date: 29 September 2026

Duration: Approximately two weeks

Theme: Scholars and Innovators

The programme will provide participants with opportunities to learn about India’s historical and cultural heritage while also exploring its contemporary development. Why Does the Know India Programme Matter? KIP is designed to strengthen connections between young members of the Indian diaspora and India. Explore India’s education and innovation ecosystem. Interact with Indian institutions and leaders. Develop connections with other young members of the diaspora. Gain firsthand exposure to India’s social and economic transformation. The programme therefore combines heritage education with contemporary learning. Who Is Eligible for the Know India Programme? Applicants must meet the programme’s core eligibility requirements.

Eligible applicants are:

Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs). Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs). Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). Individuals aged 18 to 23 years. Applicants should also meet any additional requirements specified in the official programme guidelines. What Will Participants Experience? The 89th edition is structured as a learning and exposure programme rather than simply a tourism visit.

Participants can expect activities such as

Educational sessions. Cultural visits. Heritage experiences. Institutional interactions. Meetings with relevant leaders and professionals. Exposure to India’s contemporary development. Opportunities to learn about innovation and emerging sectors. The programme is particularly relevant for young people interested in India’s culture, education, science, technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation. Focus on Scholars and Innovators The 89th edition’s focus on scholars and innovators provides a contemporary dimension to the programme. Participants can use the experience to understand how India’s academic and innovation ecosystems are contributing to national development. The programme can be particularly valuable for young diaspora members who want to explore: The 89th Know India Programme edition will be held from 15 September to 29 September 2026. Applicants should plan for participation throughout the full programme period and review the official guidelines for detailed travel and participation requirements. How to Apply for the Know India Programme

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Confirm that you:

Are a PIO, OCI, or NRI. Are between 18 and 23 years old. Meet the additional requirements specified in the programme guidelines.

Step 2: Review the Programme Guidelines

Read the official KIP application guidelines carefully.

Pay attention to requirements concerning:

Eligibility

Supporting documents. Application procedure. Travel arrangements. Programme participation. Any applicable financial or logistical conditions.

Step 3: Prepare the Required Information

Applicants should prepare the information and documentation requested in the application form. Make sure personal and eligibility information is accurate and consistent with supporting documents.

Step 4: Submit the Application

Complete and submit the application through the designated application process before the stated deadline. Applicants should retain confirmation or other evidence of submission where applicable.

Step 5: Prepare for the Programme

Selected participants should make arrangements to participate in the full programme from 15–29 September 2026 and follow all instructions provided by the programme organizers. What Makes KIP Different From a Regular Cultural Visit? KIP combines cultural exposure with structured learning. Rather than simply visiting tourist destinations, participants are introduced to different dimensions of India through: Educational activities. Institutional interactions. Cultural programmes. Heritage exposure. Development-related learning. Networking opportunities. This makes KIP particularly useful for young diaspora members who want to understand both India’s historical identity and its contemporary transformation. Tips for Applicants Applicants can strengthen their preparation by: Carefully checking the age requirement. Confirming their PIO, OCI, or NRI status. Reading the official guidelines before applying. Preparing all required supporting documents. Clearly presenting their academic, professional, or innovation interests where requested. Ensuring all information in the application is accurate. Keeping track of the application deadline. Planning availability for the entire two-week programme. Key Facts About the Know India Programme 2026

Programme: Know India Programme (KIP)

Edition: 89th Edition

Theme: Scholars and Innovators

Organizer: Government of India

Target group: Young members of the Indian diaspora

Eligible categories