Know India Programme for Young Indian Diaspora (Ireland)

Deadline: 27-Aug-2026

Know India Programme for Indian Diaspora Youth The Know India Programme (KIP) offers young members of the Indian diaspora an immersive two-week experience to reconnect with their Indian heritage while exploring the country’s cultural, economic, scientific, and technological development. The programme is designed for youth of Indian origin living abroad and provides opportunities to experience India’s traditions, innovation ecosystem, national institutions, and vision for Viksit Bharat@2047. What Is the Know India Programme? The Know India Programme is a flagship initiative of the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, created to strengthen connections between India and young members of the Indian diaspora. The programme combines cultural immersion with educational and professional exposure. Participants gain a deeper understanding of India’s history, heritage, economic development, science, technology, entrepreneurship, and contemporary society. KIP also encourages young members of the diaspora to understand India’s development journey and explore ways they can contribute to the country’s future. What Does the Know India Programme Offer? Selected participants take part in a structured two-week immersive programme in India.

The experience may include:

- Visits to historical and nationally important sites. - Cultural and heritage experiences. - Exposure to India’s regional and cultural diversity. - Interactions with innovators, entrepreneurs, scientists, and professionals. - Visits to institutions working in science, technology, and research. - Exposure to India’s start-up and innovation ecosystem. - Discussions on India’s economic and development priorities. - Opportunities to understand public initiatives and national development programmes. - Learning about India’s vision for Viksit Bharat@2047. The programme is designed to combine cultural learning with contemporary exposure so that participants understand both India’s heritage and its current development trajectory. Who Is Eligible? The Know India Programme is designed for young people of Indian origin living outside India. The programme has two broad age-based categories:

- Scholars and Innovators: 18–23 years

- Young Professionals: 24–28 years

Applicants must meet the programme’s requirements relating to Indian origin, age, documentation, and other eligibility conditions specified for the relevant edition. Scholars and Innovators Cohort The Scholars and Innovators category is intended for younger participants aged 18–23 years.

This cohort provides exposure to India’s:

- Cultural heritage - Scientific institutions - Innovation ecosystem - Entrepreneurship landscape - Educational environment - Economic development - National priorities The programme can help young participants develop a more informed understanding of India’s achievements and future opportunities. Young Professionals Cohort The Young Professionals category is intended for participants aged 24–28 years. This cohort places greater emphasis on professional and economic exposure, including India’s business environment, innovation ecosystem, entrepreneurship, public policy, and development priorities. Participants can interact with professionals and institutions and gain insights that may be relevant to their academic or professional interests. Why Does the Know India Programme Matter? For young members of the Indian diaspora, KIP provides an opportunity to experience India beyond family connections or individual visits. The programme helps participants understand: - India’s cultural and historical identity. - The country’s economic transformation. - Scientific and technological developments. - The growth of India’s start-up ecosystem. - India’s diverse regional and linguistic traditions. - National development priorities. - The country’s long-term vision for Viksit Bharat@2047. The programme also strengthens people-to-people connections between India and its global diaspora. How Does the Programme Work? The Know India Programme follows an immersive learning model rather than a conventional classroom-based programme. Participants spend approximately two weeks in India taking part in curated activities, exposure visits, cultural experiences, and interactions with experts and professionals.

Step 1: Apply for the Relevant KIP Edition

Applicants should identify the KIP edition and age category applicable to them and review the official eligibility requirements.

Step 2: Confirm Eligibility

Applicants should verify their age, Indian-origin status, and any educational, professional, or documentary requirements specified for the relevant edition.

Step 3: Submit the Required Documents

Applicants must provide the documentation requested by the programme, which may include proof of Indian origin or diaspora status and other supporting documents.

Step 4: Complete the Selection Process

Applications are assessed according to the eligibility and selection criteria established for the particular KIP edition.

Step 5: Participate in the Two-Week Programme

Selected participants travel to India and take part in the programme’s cultural, educational, professional, and institutional activities. What Can Participants Expect? The KIP experience is designed around several interconnected areas.

Culture and Heritage: Participants explore India’s historical sites, cultural traditions, arts, and heritage.

Innovation and Technology: Participants gain exposure to India’s scientific, technological, and start-up ecosystem.

Economic Development: The programme provides insight into India’s economic progress and development priorities.

Professional Interaction: Participants interact with entrepreneurs, innovators, scientists, professionals, and other stakeholders.

National Vision: Participants learn about India’s long-term development goals, including Viksit Bharat@2047.

Important Points for Applicants Applicants should keep the following points in mind: - Check the age categ