90th Edition of Know India Programme for Diaspora Youth (Botswana)

Deadline: 28-Sep-2026

The 90th Know India Programme offers a two-week immersive experience for 25 young professionals, scholars, and innovators of Indian origin to explore India’s history, cultural heritage, diverse society, and contemporary development. Eligible applicants include Persons of Indian Origin, Overseas Citizens of India, and Non-Resident Indians, with separate age requirements for the Young Professionals and Scholars and Innovators cohorts.

About the Know India Programme

The Know India Programme, commonly known as KIP, is a flagship diaspora-engagement initiative of the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India. It helps young members of the Indian diaspora strengthen their connection with their ancestral homeland through travel, cultural immersion, educational exposure, and interactive sessions. The program introduces participants to both India’s historical heritage and its contemporary social and economic progress.

About the 90th Edition

The 90th Know India Programme will:

- Run for approximately two weeks. - Accommodate 25 participants. - Include young professionals, scholars, and innovators. - Provide structured travel and cultural activities. - Introduce participants to Indian institutions and communities. - Showcase India’s economic and social development. - Strengthen connections between India and its global diaspora. Applicants should consult the official announcement for confirmed dates, destinations, and itinerary. Purpose of the Programme

The program aims to:

- Reconnect diaspora youth with their Indian roots. - Increase understanding of India’s history. - Introduce participants to the country’s cultural heritage. - Showcase India’s contemporary development. - Highlight economic progress and innovation. - Strengthen relationships with the global Indian diaspora. - Encourage long-term cultural and professional engagement. - Build connections among young people of Indian origin. - Promote understanding of India’s social diversity. - Provide first-hand exposure to modern India. Programme Structure The two-week program will follow a structured itinerary that may include: - Travel within India. - Cultural immersion. - Visits to historical sites. - Interaction with institutions. - Educational sessions. - Engagement with government representatives. - Exposure to businesses and development initiatives. - Meetings with professionals and community leaders. - Interaction with other diaspora participants. - Sessions on Indian society, heritage, and development. The final schedule will be determined by the Ministry of External Affairs and relevant program partners. Key Areas of Learning

Participants will gain exposure to

- Indian history. - Cultural heritage. - Regional diversity. - Contemporary society. - Economic transformation. - Innovation and entrepreneurship. - Public institutions. - Education and research. - Technology and development. - India’s role in the wider world. The program is designed to provide a balanced understanding of India’s traditions and current progress. Cultural Immersion Cultural immersion allows participants to experience India beyond academic or online learning.

Activities may introduce participants to:

- Art and architecture. - Music and dance. - Languages and literature. - Historical monuments. - Regional customs. - Traditional crafts. - Food traditions. - Community life. - Festivals and cultural practices. - Contemporary creative expression. These experiences can help diaspora youth better understand the complexity and diversity of Indian identity. Contemporary India The program also emphasizes India’s current development.

Participants may learn about

- Economic growth. - Infrastructure. - Digital transformation. - Technology. - Entrepreneurship. - Education. - Public health. - Social-development programs. - Sustainable development. - Urban and rural change. - India’s global engagement. This combination of heritage and development provides a more comprehensive view of the country. Available Cohorts The 90th edition includes two participant categories: - Young Professionals cohort. - Scholars and Innovators cohort. Each cohort has a separate age range and may have distinct educational requirements. Applicants should apply under the category that accurately reflects their age, qualifications, and current status. Young Professionals Cohort The Young Professionals cohort is open to applicants aged: This category is intended for young people of Indian origin who are pursuing or have begun professional careers. Candidates may be expected to demonstrate: - Relevant educational qualifications. - Professional or career experience. - Interest in India. - English-language proficiency. - Ability to participate in the complete program. - Evidence of Indian origin or NRI status. Applicants should review the official guidelines for the minimum qualification and experience required. Scholars and Innovators Cohort The Scholars and Innovators cohort is open to applicants aged:

This category may include:

- Students. - Young researchers. - Early-stage innovators. - Aspiring entrepreneurs. - Youth involved in academic or creative initiatives. Applicants must meet the minimum educational qualification specified for this cohort. The official call should be consulted for required academic records, enrolment status, qualifications, or evidence of innovation. Who Is Eligible? Applicants must belong to at least one of the following categories: - Persons of Indian Origin. - Overseas Citizens of India. - Non-Resident Indians.

Applicants must also:

- Be within the age range for the selected cohort. - Meet the applicable educational requirements. - Demonstrate proficiency in English. - Provide documentary proof of Indian origin or NRI status. - Be available for the complete two-week program. - Meet any health, travel, and documentation requirements. - Comply with all official program conditions. Age Requirements

The age criteria are:

| Cohort | Eligible