Apply now for 89th Know India Programme (Kuwait)

Deadline: 27-Aug-2026

The 89th Know India Programme (KIP) – Kuwait 2026 offers young people of Indian origin aged 18–28 an opportunity to participate in a two-week immersive visit to India. The programme combines Indian heritage and cultural experiences with exposure to innovation, entrepreneurship, governance, education, and economic development. The programme is organised by the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, to strengthen connections between Indian diaspora youth and their ancestral homeland while introducing them to India’s contemporary development journey towards Viksit Bharat @2047. What Is the Know India Programme? The Know India Programme (KIP) is a flagship diaspora engagement initiative of the Government of India that was launched in 2003–04. The programme is designed for young members of the Indian diaspora who want to understand India’s: The 89th edition includes participants from Kuwait and is organised around two age-based cohorts.

89th KIP Kuwait 2026: Key Highlights

Programme: 89th Know India Programme

Applicant location: Kuwait

Duration: Two weeks

Age range: 18–28 years

Eligible groups: PIOs, OCIs and NRIs

Organiser: Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India

Cohorts: Scholars & Innovators and Young Professionals

International airfare: Participants are responsible for their own airfare

Accommodation: Covered in India for selected participants

Internal travel: Covered

Programme costs in India: Covered

Insurance: Participant responsibility

Language: Spoken English proficiency required

KIP 2026 Cohorts The 89th Know India Programme is divided into two groups according to age and professional background. Scholars and Innovators This cohort is intended for participants aged 18–23 years. Applicants should have completed at least Class 12 and demonstrate an interest in India’s development, innovation, culture, education, or related areas. The itinerary also includes visits to at least two States or Union Territories, helping participants experience India’s diversity beyond a single city or region. Exposure to India’s Innovation and Technology Ecosystem A major component of KIP is exposure to India’s rapidly developing innovation ecosystem.

Participants may interact with or visit leading institutions such as

IITs IIMs ISRO BARC Start-ups Incubators Entrepreneurs Research and innovation organisations These experiences help participants understand India’s progress in science, technology, entrepreneurship, and digital transformation. Cultural and Heritage Experiences KIP is not limited to academic or professional visits.

Participants are also introduced to India’s cultural and civilizational heritage through

Historical and heritage sites Regional cultural activities Traditional arts Yoga Classical music and dance Local traditions India’s linguistic and cultural diversity The programme is intended to help diaspora youth develop a stronger personal and cultural connection with India. Who Is Eligible for the 89th Know India Programme – Kuwait? Applicants must meet the programme’s nationality, age, education, and participation requirements. Eligible Applicants

The programme is open to:

Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs) Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) Applicants must be between 18 and 28 years old and provide appropriate proof of Indian origin or eligible status. Age and Education Requirements

For the Scholars & Innovators cohort:

Age: 18–23 years

Minimum education: Class 12

For the Young Professionals cohort:

Age: 24–28 years

Minimum education: University graduation

Applicants must also have sufficient proficiency in spoken English to participate effectively in programme activities and discussions. Who May Receive Preference? Although eligibility is based on the programme requirements, preference may be given to applicants who: Have not previously visited India Are NRIs residing in the Gulf region Come from Girmitiya countries Have not previously participated in KIP Have not participated in similar government-sponsored programmes in India Preference does not replace the core eligibility requirements. What Benefits Does KIP Provide? Selected participants receive substantial support for their stay in India.

The Government of India provides:

Hotel accommodation Local hospitality Internal transportation Programme-related activities Visits and exposure programmes Cultural experiences Institutional interactions However, participants are responsible for certain expenses. Expenses Participants Must Cover

Participants must arrange and pay for

International airfare to and from India International travel-related expenses not covered by the programme

Participants must submit a valid international travel and Medical insurance policy

Medical Fitness Requirement Selected participants must also provide a medical fitness certificate before participating in the programme. This requirement helps ensure that participants are medically fit to undertake the travel, activities, and programme schedule. How the 89th Know India Programme Works The programme follows a structured two-week immersion model.

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Confirm that you:

Are a PIO, OCI, or NRI Are aged 18–28 Meet the relevant educational requirement Have not previously participated in KIP or similar government-sponsored programmes Can communicate effectively in spoken English

Step 2: Prepare Supporting Documents

Applicants should be prepared to provide documents establishing: Identity Indian origin or eligible diaspora status Age Educational qualifications Other information requested in the official application

Step 3: Submit the Application

Complete the application through the official KIP application process for the 89th edition – Kuwait and provide accurate information and supporting documentation.

Step 4: Selection

Applications are assessed according to the programme’s eligibility and selection requirements. Selected participants receive further instructions