Apply Now: 90th Edition of Know India Programme in United States

Deadline: 28-Sep-2026

The Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, is inviting Persons of Indian Origin, Overseas Citizens of India, and Non-Resident Indians to participate in the 90th Know India Programme. Scheduled from 18 to 31 October 2026, this two-week immersive program will introduce young members of the Indian diaspora to India’s cultural heritage, diverse traditions, public institutions, business environment, and contemporary development.

About the Know India Programme

The Know India Programme is a flagship diaspora-engagement initiative of the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India. It gives young people of Indian origin living abroad an opportunity to visit India and develop a deeper understanding of their ancestral homeland. The program combines cultural immersion, educational visits, institutional interactions, and exposure to India’s social and economic development. Programme Dates The 90th Know India Programme will take place from:

- Start date: 18 October 2026.

- End date: 31 October 2026.

- Duration: Approximately two weeks.

Applicants should confirm that they are available for the entire program before applying. Purpose of the Programme The Know India Programme seeks to strengthen connections between India and younger generations of the Indian diaspora.

Its primary objectives are to:

- Introduce participants to India’s cultural heritage. - Increase awareness of the country’s diverse traditions. - Help diaspora youth connect with their ancestral roots. - Showcase India’s contemporary progress. - Provide insights into Indian public institutions. - Highlight the country’s business and development environment. - Encourage engagement with government officials and business leaders. - Build long-term relationships between India and its global diaspora. - Promote cultural understanding and people-to-people connections. Key Areas of Focus The program introduces participants to multiple aspects of Indian life.

Primary areas of focus include:

Cultural Heritage and Traditions India has a diverse cultural heritage shaped by numerous regions, languages, communities, faiths, artistic traditions, and historical periods. Through the program, participants may explore: - Indian history. - Architecture and heritage sites. - Traditional and contemporary art. - Music and dance. - Languages and literature. - Festivals and customs. - Regional cultures. - Food traditions. - Community life. - Cultural diversity. These experiences are intended to help diaspora youth understand both the shared and regionally diverse dimensions of Indian identity. Contemporary India The program goes beyond historical and cultural learning by introducing participants to modern India.

Participants may gain insights into

- Economic growth. - Digital transformation. - Infrastructure development. - Education and research. - Public administration. - Innovation and technology. - Entrepreneurship and startups. - Social-development programs. - India’s changing urban and rural communities. - The country’s regional and global role. This combination of heritage and contemporary progress provides participants with a broader understanding of India. Institutional and Professional Engagement The Know India Programme may provide opportunities to interact with government officials, business leaders, institutions, and professionals. These interactions can help participants understand: - How government institutions operate. - India’s public policy priorities. - The country’s economic environment. - Business and entrepreneurship opportunities. - Development challenges and achievements. - The role of young people in India’s progress. - Opportunities for diaspora engagement. Applicants should consult the official itinerary for confirmed meetings, institutions, and activities. Visits and Immersive Activities The program may include educational and cultural visits to: - Historical monuments. - Cultural institutions. - Government offices. - Educational institutions. - Research centres. - Business organisations. - Development projects. - Industrial or technology facilities. - Community initiatives. - Sites of regional importance. The confirmed itinerary will be determined by the Ministry of External Affairs and relevant program partners. Who Is Eligible? The program is open to young members of the Indian diaspora.

Eligible categories include:

- Persons of Indian Origin. - Overseas Citizens of India. - Non-Resident Indians. Applicants should review the official program guidelines for requirements related to age, nationality, residency, education, previous participation, health, travel documentation, and availability. Understanding the Applicant Categories Persons of Indian Origin A Person of Indian Origin generally refers to an individual with Indian ancestry who may hold citizenship in another country. Candidates must follow the specific definition and documentation requirements provided in the official program guidelines. Overseas Citizens of India An Overseas Citizen of India is a foreign national registered as an OCI cardholder under the applicable Indian legal framework. OCI applicants may need to provide a copy of their valid OCI card and passport. Non-Resident Indians A Non-Resident Indian is an Indian citizen who normally resides outside India. NRI applicants may be asked to provide proof of Indian citizenship and overseas residence. Who Should Apply? The program may be particularly valuable for diaspora youth who: - Want to explore their Indian ancestry. - Have limited first-hand experience of India. - Are interested in Indian culture and history. - Want to understand modern India. - Are curious about government, business, or development. - Want to connect with other members of the global Indian diaspora. - Are prepared to participate in an intensive two-week program. - Are interested in building lasting connections with India. - Are willing to share their experiences with their communities. Potential Benefits f