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

Deadline: 27-Aug-2026

The Know India Programme (KIP) is a Government of India initiative that gives young members of the Indian diaspora an immersive opportunity to experience India’s culture, heritage, innovation, governance, and economic development. The programme has two cohorts—Scholars & Innovators aged 18–23 and Young Professionals aged 24–28—with Government of India support covering 90% of international airfare, local hospitality, and internal travel. What Is the Know India Programme? The Know India Programme (KIP) is a flagship diaspora engagement initiative launched by the Government of India in 2003–04. It is designed to strengthen the relationship between young people of Indian origin and their ancestral country while helping participants understand India’s contemporary development. The programme combines cultural immersion, educational exposure, institutional visits, professional networking, and interaction with India’s innovation ecosystem. Participants may interact with start-ups, incubators, entrepreneurs, researchers, and industry leaders. Young Professionals This cohort is for participants aged 24–28 years. The itinerary provides greater exposure to: Public institutions Governance Policymaking India’s economy Industry Entrepreneurship Science and technology Infrastructure Development programmes Participants can also gain exposure to important institutions and organizations involved in India’s governance and development. Why Does the Know India Programme Matter? KIP goes beyond being a cultural exchange programme. It is designed to help young members of the Indian diaspora develop a deeper understanding of modern India while maintaining a connection with their Indian heritage. Explore the country’s innovation and start-up ecosystem. Understand government programmes and public institutions. Connect with Indian entrepreneurs, researchers, and professionals. Experience India’s regional and linguistic diversity. Develop professional and cultural connections with India. Become more familiar with India’s development journey. What Does the Programme Include? KIP provides a structured itinerary combining academic, professional, cultural, and institutional experiences.

Participants may take part in

Interactive sessions on public policy and governance. Presentations on India’s economy and development. Meetings with entrepreneurs and industry leaders. Visits to start-ups and incubators. Visits to scientific and research institutions. Educational interactions with leading institutions. Cultural programmes and heritage visits. Exposure to Indian traditions and regional cultures. The programme covers diverse sectors, including science and technology, information technology, infrastructure, education, agriculture, tourism, entrepreneurship, and innovation. Exposure to India’s Innovation and Research Ecosystem One of KIP’s important components is exposure to India’s scientific and innovation infrastructure. Depending on the cohort and itinerary, participants may interact with or visit premier institutions and organizations such as: IITs IIMs ISRO BARC Scientific and research institutions Universities and higher education institutions Start-ups and incubators Innovation and entrepreneurship organizations These interactions help participants understand India’s growing role in research, technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation. Cultural and Heritage Experience The programme also introduces participants to India’s diverse cultural and civilizational heritage.

Activities may include:

Visits to historical and heritage sites. Yoga experiences. Ayurveda-related exposure. Classical Indian music. Classical dance. Regional traditions. Cultural interactions. Exploration of India’s linguistic and regional diversity. Participants also travel to at least two States or Union Territories, allowing them to experience different parts of India rather than focusing on a single location. Financial Support and Expenses Covered The Government of India provides substantial financial support to selected participants.

Support includes:

90% of international airfare between the participant’s country of residence and India. 10% of airfare paid by the participant. Boarding during the programme. Lodging in designated accommodation. Internal transportation within India. Airport transfers. Gratis visa for selected participants, subject to applicable arrangements. This significantly reduces the cost of participating in the programme. Programme Duration and Participant Intake Each KIP cohort generally runs for two weeks, including travel time.

The programme admits:

25 participants per cohort 25 Scholars & Innovators 25 Young Professionals The two cohorts have separate age requirements and tailored itineraries. Who Is Eligible? Applicants must generally meet the following requirements: Be a youth of Indian origin. Belong to the PIO, OCI, or NRI category. Be aged 18–28 years, depending on the selected cohort. Meet the relevant educational qualification. Have proficiency in spoken English. Have not previously participated in KIP or similar government-funded programmes in India. Educational Requirements

For Scholars & Innovators aged 18–23:

Minimum qualification: 12th Class/secondary-level completion, as specified in the programme guidelines.

For Young Professionals aged 24–28:

A university graduation degree from a recognized institution is required. Applicants should always verify the specific requirements stated in the applicable edition’s official guidelines. Who Is Preferred? Preference may be given to applicants who: Have not previously visited India. Demonstrate genuine interest in India and its development. Can benefit from exposure to India’s cultural, academic, innovation, or professional ecosystem. The programme is particularly intended to create meaningful engagement between the Indian diaspora and contemporary India. Who Is Not Eligible?

Applicants may be ineligible if they:

Do not meet the applicable age requ