Call for Entries: 90th Know India Programme (Bulgaria)

Deadline: 28-Sep-2026

The 90th Know India Programme invites young Persons of Indian Origin, Overseas Citizens of India, and Non-Resident Indians aged 24–28 to reconnect with their ancestral homeland. Scheduled from 18 to 31 October 2026, the program provides first-hand exposure to India’s cultural heritage, democratic institutions, economic transformation, innovation, and national 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 offers young members of the Indian diaspora an immersive opportunity to explore their cultural roots while developing a deeper understanding of contemporary India. The program combines cultural learning with exposure to India’s democracy, public institutions, economy, technological advancements, and development journey. Programme Dates The 90th Know India Programme is scheduled for:

- Start date: 18 October 2026.

- End date: 31 October 2026.

- Duration: Approximately two weeks.

Applicants should be available to participate throughout the entire program period. Purpose of the Programme

The Know India Programme aims to:

- Reconnect diaspora youth with their Indian roots. - Introduce participants to India’s cultural heritage. - Increase understanding of the country’s diverse traditions. - Provide exposure to India’s democratic institutions. - Highlight India’s economic transformation. - Showcase innovation and technological progress. - Explain India’s development priorities and achievements. - Strengthen relationships between India and its global diaspora. - Encourage lasting cultural and professional connections. - Build networks among young people of Indian origin. Key Areas of Focus The program focuses on several interconnected aspects of India: - Cultural heritage and traditions. - Democratic values and institutions. - Economic development. - Innovation and technology. - Entrepreneurship. - Social development. - Public administration. - National progress. - India’s regional and global role. The confirmed itinerary and activities will be provided through the official application or selection process. India’s Cultural Heritage

Participants will have an opportunity to learn about India’s diverse cultural identity

This may include exposure to:

- Indian history. - Historical monuments. - Regional traditions. - Art and architecture. - Music and dance. - Languages and literature. - Traditional crafts. - Festivals and customs. - Food traditions. - Contemporary cultural life. The experience is intended to help participants better understand the traditions, histories, and communities that have shaped India. Democratic Institutions and Values India is the world’s largest democracy, with institutions operating at national, state, and local levels. The program may help participants understand: - India’s constitutional values. - Democratic governance. - Parliamentary institutions. - Public administration. - Citizen participation. - India’s electoral system. - The role of public institutions. - Federal, state, and local governance. - Rights and responsibilities within a democracy. This institutional exposure can help diaspora youth develop a more informed understanding of how modern India is governed. Economic Transformation Participants may learn about India’s economic development and changing business environment.

Relevant themes may include:

The program presents India as both an ancestral homeland and a significant participant in the global economy. Innovation and Technology India has developed a growing ecosystem involving science, technology, research, startups, and digital public services.

Participants may gain exposure to

- Digital governance. - Technology-based public services. - Scientific research. - Startup ecosystems. - Social innovation. - Digital entrepreneurship. - Technology for financial inclusion. - Innovation in health and education. - Sustainable-development solutions. The exact areas covered will depend on the official itinerary. India’s Development Journey The program provides insights into India’s contemporary development, including achievements and continuing challenges.

Possible areas of learning include:

- Education. - Healthcare. - Infrastructure. - Rural development. - Urban transformation. - Social welfare. - Skills development. - Environmental sustainability. - Digital inclusion. - Youth participation. This broader exposure helps participants understand India’s evolving social and economic landscape. Who Is Eligible? Applicants must belong to one of the following categories: - Persons of Indian Origin. - Overseas Citizens of India. - Non-Resident Indians. Eligible candidates must also be between 24 and 28 years old. Applicants should contact the nearest Indian embassy, high commission, or consulate to confirm the official definition of each category and the applicable documentation requirements. Persons of Indian Origin A Person of Indian Origin generally refers to someone with Indian ancestry who lives abroad and may hold citizenship in another country. Applicants must provide the documents specified by the relevant Indian diplomatic mission to establish their Indian origin. Overseas Citizens of India An Overseas Citizen of India is a foreign national registered as an OCI cardholder under the relevant Indian legal framework. OCI applicants may be required to provide: - A valid passport. - A valid OCI card. - Proof of overseas residence. - Other requested identification. Non-Resident Indians A Non-Resident Indian is an Indian citizen who ordinarily resides outside India.

NRI applicants may need to provide:

- A valid Indian passport. - Proof of overseas residence. - Evidence of age and identity. - Other documents requested by the diplomatic mission. Age Requirement Applicants must be between 24 and 28 years old. Candidates should confirm the reference date used to calculate age. This is particularly important for applicant