Know India Programme 89th edition for Scholars and Innovators (Belarus)

Deadline: 27-Aug-2026

The 89th Know India Programme (KIP) offers young members of the Indian diaspora an opportunity to experience India’s culture, heritage, innovation, and contemporary development through a structured educational immersion. The 2026 edition is specifically designed for Scholars and Innovators aged 18–23 who are NRIs, PIOs, or OCIs and will be held in India from 15 to 29 September 2026. Selected participants will receive support for local hospitality, internal travel, and related expenses during the programme, allowing them to explore India’s cultural heritage, start-up ecosystem, scientific achievements, and economic transformation. What Is the Know India Programme? The Know India Programme (KIP) is a flagship initiative of the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, launched in 2003–04. The programme was established to strengthen engagement between India and its young diaspora by helping participants: Explore India’s innovation and start-up ecosystem. Learn about scientific and technological advancements. Understand India’s economic transformation. Build connections with institutions and other young diaspora members. The programme combines cultural exposure with educational and developmental learning. What Is the 89th Edition of KIP? The 89th edition of the Know India Programme is designed specifically for Scholars and Innovators. It will take place in India from: 15 September 2026 to 29 September 2026 The two-week programme will provide selected participants with opportunities to explore different aspects of India’s society, culture, economy, science, technology, and innovation. Who Is Eligible for the 89th KIP? The 89th edition is open to young members of the Indian diaspora who meet the following basic requirements:

Age: 18–23 years.

Must be a Non-Resident Indian (NRI), Person of Indian Origin (PIO), or Overseas Citizen of India (OCI). Must meet the other requirements specified in the programme guidelines. The edition particularly targets scholars and innovators, making it relevant to young people with academic, research, innovation, or related interests. Who Are NRI, PIO, and OCI Participants? Non-Resident Indians NRIs are Indian citizens who reside outside India and meet the applicable legal criteria for non-resident status. Persons of Indian Origin PIO refers to people of Indian origin living outside India who fall within the applicable eligibility framework for the programme. Overseas Citizens of India OCIs are foreign nationals who hold an Overseas Citizen of India status under India’s applicable legal framework. Applicants should verify their exact status and eligibility against the official KIP guidelines before applying. What Does the Know India Programme Offer? KIP provides participants with a structured opportunity to experience different dimensions of India. The cultural component is intended to help participants develop a stronger connection with their ancestral roots. Why Is the Know India Programme Important? The programme serves as a bridge between India and its younger global diaspora. It helps participants understand India beyond its historical and cultural identity by showing how the country is developing in areas such as: Science. Technology. Innovation. Entrepreneurship. Infrastructure. Education. Economic development. The programme also encourages young diaspora members to consider how they can contribute to India’s future development. What Expenses Are Covered? Selected participants receive support for local expenses during their stay in India.

The programme covers:

Local hospitality. Internal travel. Related programme expenses during the stay. Applicants should carefully review the applicable guidelines to understand the precise scope of covered expenses and any costs that remain their responsibility. How Long Is the 89th KIP? The 89th edition will run for approximately two weeks, from: 15 September 2026 to 29 September 2026. Participants will take part in a structured schedule of educational, cultural, and exposure activities during this period. How to Apply for the Know India Programme

Step 1: Confirm Your Age

Ensure that you are between 18 and 23 years old for the 89th Scholars and Innovators edition.

Step 2: Confirm Your Diaspora Category

Applicants must belong to one of the eligible categories: NRI. PIO. OCI.

Step 3: Review the Scholars and Innovators Requirements

Because this edition is specifically designed for Scholars and Innovators, applicants should carefully review any additional academic or innovation-related requirements in the official guidelines.

Step 4: Prepare Supporting Information

Applicants should prepare the required personal, educational, diaspora-status, and other supporting information requested in the application.

Step 5: Submit the Application

Complete and submit the application according to the official instructions and within the stated application deadline.

Step 6: Prepare for the Programme

Selected participants should be prepared to participate fully in the two-week programme and comply with all travel and programme requirements. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applicants should avoid:

Applying when they are outside the 18–23 age range. Failing to establish their NRI, PIO, or OCI status. Ignoring the specific requirements for the Scholars and Innovators edition. Assuming every personal or international travel expense is covered. Providing incomplete application information. Failing to review the official programme guidelines. Missing the application deadline. Tips for Applicants Applicants can strengthen their preparation by: Clearly documenting their Indian diaspora status. Highlighting academic or research interests. Showcasing innovation or entrepreneurial activities where relevant. Demonstrating genuine interest in India’s culture and development. Carefully reviewing all eligibility conditions. Preparing complete supporting documents before submission. Key Facts About the 89th Know India Programme Progra