89th Know India Programme for Diaspora Youth (Senegal)

Deadline: 27-Aug-2026

The 89th Know India Programme (KIP), organized by the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, offers a three-week educational and cultural immersion experience for youth of Indian origin aged 21–35 years, excluding Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). Selected participants can explore India’s heritage, governance, economy, science, technology, start-up ecosystem, and cultural traditions, with local hospitality and most travel costs supported by the Government of India. What Is the Know India Programme? The Know India Programme (KIP) is a flagship initiative of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India, established in 2003–04 to strengthen engagement between India and young members of the global Indian diaspora. The programme provides participants with an opportunity to reconnect with their ancestral roots while gaining first-hand exposure to India’s social, economic, cultural, scientific, and technological development. The 89th edition offers a structured three-week immersion experience in India for eligible youth of Indian origin. What Does the 89th Know India Programme Offer? The programme combines educational sessions, institutional visits, cultural experiences, and interaction with Indian leaders, professionals, researchers, entrepreneurs, and students. The programme aims to help participants understand India’s cultural diversity while developing a stronger connection with their Indian heritage. Who Is Eligible for the 89th Know India Programme? The programme is intended for youth of Indian origin aged 21–35 years, subject to the programme guidelines. Applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements: Be a youth of Indian origin. Be between 21 and 35 years of age as of the first day of the programme month. Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) are excluded from this edition. Hold a graduation degree from a recognized university or institution. Be able to communicate in English. Applicants should have studied English at the high-school level or have completed undergraduate studies where English was the medium of instruction. Preference is given to applicants from Girmitiya countries. Preference may also be given to applicants who have not previously visited India. Applicants must not have previously participated in KIP or a similar government-funded programme in India. Who Cannot Apply? Applicants are generally not eligible if they: Are Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). Do not meet the required age range. Do not hold the required graduation qualification. Cannot meet the English-language requirement. Have already participated in KIP. Have participated in a similar government-funded programme in India. Do not meet the programme’s definition of youth of Indian origin. What Financial Support Does the Programme Provide? Selected participants receive substantial support for their participation in the programme. The Government of India provides local hospitality, including: Boarding and lodging in budget hotels Internal transportation within India Airport transfers Other programme-related local arrangements Return air tickets are arranged through Indian Missions, with participants required to contribute 10% of the total airfare. Selected participants are also eligible for a gratis visa issued by the relevant Indian Mission or Post abroad. What Is the Programme Duration? The 89th Know India Programme provides a three-week immersive experience in India. The programme includes educational, institutional, cultural, and networking activities throughout the scheduled visit. Applicants should carefully check the official programme notice for the exact dates, application deadline, travel arrangements, and detailed itinerary applicable to the 89th edition. Why Does the Know India Programme Matter? The Know India Programme serves as a bridge between India and the global Indian diaspora. It helps young people of Indian origin: Understand their ancestral heritage. Develop a deeper knowledge of Indian society and culture. Learn about India’s economic and technological progress. Understand Indian governance and public institutions. Explore India’s start-up and innovation ecosystem. Build professional and cultural connections. Experience India’s diversity directly. Develop a stronger connection with India’s development journey. The programme is particularly valuable for young diaspora members who want to understand India beyond its cultural heritage and learn about its contemporary transformation. What Participants Can Learn Through KIP The programme provides a multidisciplinary learning experience covering several areas. Governance and Public Policy Participants are introduced to India’s political and administrative institutions, including visits and presentations related to Parliament, elections, public administration, and national governance. Science, Technology and Innovation Participants can learn about India’s progress in scientific research, information technology, pharmaceuticals, space-related activities, infrastructure, and emerging technologies. Entrepreneurship and Start-ups The programme provides exposure to India’s growing entrepreneurial ecosystem through interactions with entrepreneurs, start-ups, institutions, and innovation-focused organizations. Education and Research Visits to universities, colleges, and research institutions allow participants to interact with academics, researchers, and students. Agriculture and Development Participants may gain insight into India’s agricultural sector, rural development initiatives, and technological approaches to improving livelihoods. Culture and Heritage Cultural visits and activities introduce participants to India’s history, traditions, arts, architecture, yoga, Ayurveda, music, and dance. How Does the Know India Programme Work? The programme follows a structured immersion model combining learning, travel, cultural exposure, and interaction.

The general process is:

Check eligibility: Confirm that you meet t