Applications Open: 89th Edition – Know India Programme (South Africa)

Deadline: 27-Aug-2026

The Know India Programme (KIP) 89th Edition 2026 is a two-week Government of India immersion programme for young people of Indian origin aged 18–28. The programme covers local hospitality and 90% of international airfare while offering participants exposure to India’s culture, heritage, innovation, entrepreneurship, science, technology, and development journey. Know India Programme 89th Edition 2026 The Know India Programme (KIP) 89th Edition 2026 is inviting applications from young people of Indian origin living around the world. The programme is designed to strengthen the connection between Indian diaspora youth and their ancestral homeland while providing first-hand exposure to India’s cultural heritage, economic development, innovation, science, technology, and contemporary society. Launched in 2003–04, KIP is a flagship initiative of the Government of India for engaging young members of the Indian diaspora. The programme combines cultural immersion with educational visits, institutional interactions, professional networking, and discussions on India’s development priorities and Viksit Bharat @2047 vision. Selected participants take part in a two-week fully hosted immersion experience in India, including visits to at least two States or Union Territories. What Is the Know India Programme? The Know India Programme is a Government of India initiative that gives young members of the Indian diaspora an opportunity to understand India beyond their ancestral connection.

The programme combines:

- Indian history, heritage, and culture - Regional and linguistic diversity - Yoga and traditional Indian practices - Classical music, dance, and other cultural traditions - Science, technology, and innovation - Entrepreneurship and the Indian start-up ecosystem - Public policy and governance - Economic and social development - India’s technological and scientific achievements - India’s development vision towards Viksit Bharat @2047 The programme is particularly intended to help diaspora youth develop a deeper understanding of India’s changing economy, society, institutions, and opportunities.

KIP 89th Edition 2026: Key Highlights

- Programme: Know India Programme, 89th Edition

- Year: 2026

- Duration: Two weeks, including travel time

- Target group: Youth of Indian origin

- Age range: 18–28 years

- Cohorts: Scholars & Innovators and Young Professionals

- Participants: 25 participants per cohort

- International airfare: Government of India covers 90%

- Participant airfare contribution: 10%

- Accommodation: Provided in India

- Internal transportation: Covered during the programme

- Visa: Gratis visa support

- Insurance: Participants must obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance

- Academic and institutional exposure: Included

- States/UTs visited: At least two

- Completion requirement: 750–1,000-word experience report

Who Is Eligible for KIP 2026? The programme is open to young people of Indian origin from different parts of the world.

Eligible applicants include:

- Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) - Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs) - Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) Applicants must meet the applicable age and educational requirements for their cohort. Scholars & Innovators The Scholars & Innovators cohort is intended for applicants aged 18–23 years.

Applicants in this category must:

- Be of Indian origin. - Be between 18 and 23 years old. - Have completed at least Class 12. - Have proficiency in spoken English. - Not have previously participated in KIP or a similar Government of India-funded programme. Young Professionals The Young Professionals cohort is intended for applicants aged 24–28 years.

Applicants must:

- Be of Indian origin. - Be between 24 and 28 years old. - Hold a university degree. - Be proficient in English. - Not have previously participated in KIP or a similar Government of India-funded programme. Who May Receive Preference? Although the programme is open to eligible Indian diaspora youth worldwide, certain applicants may receive preference.

Preference is given to:

- Applicants who have not previously visited India. - NRIs living in the Gulf region. - Applicants from Girmitiya countries. - Applicants who can demonstrate a strong interest in understanding India’s culture, development, innovation, and contemporary society. Preference does not necessarily replace the core eligibility requirements. Applicants must still satisfy the programme’s stated age, educational, nationality or Indian-origin, language, and participation requirements. What Does the KIP Programme Include? KIP provides participants with a structured combination of cultural, educational, professional, and institutional experiences. Cultural and Heritage Exposure

Participants can explore India’s diverse cultural and civilizational heritage through

- Visits to important historical and heritage sites - Cultural programmes - Regional traditions - Yoga - Classical arts - Exposure to India’s linguistic and cultural diversity The itinerary covers at least two Indian States or Union Territories to provide participants with a broader understanding of India’s regional diversity. Science, Technology and Innovation Exposure The programme also introduces participants to India’s scientific and technological ecosystem.

Participants may interact with institutions such as

- Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) - Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) - Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) - Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) These interactions help participants understand India’s achievements in research, technology, entrepreneurship, space, education, and innovation. Entrepreneurship and Start-up Ecosystem KIP also provides exposure to India’s growing entrepreneurship ecosystem.

Participants may learn about

- Indian start-ups - Innovation and entrepreneurship - Technology-driven businesses - Economic development - Emerging industries - Opportunities for professional engagement with India Government