RFAs: Know India Programme for Young Professionals (Oman)

Deadline: 28-Sep-2026

The 90th Know India Programme offers 25 young professionals of Indian origin aged 24–28 a two-week immersive experience in India. Selected participants receive 90% international airfare support, full local hospitality, internal transportation, airport transfers, and a gratis visa while exploring India’s heritage, democratic institutions, innovation, entrepreneurship, and development.

About the Know India Programme

The Know India Programme, commonly known as KIP, is a flagship diaspora-engagement initiative of the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India. Launched in 2003–04, the programme connects young members of the Indian diaspora with their ancestral homeland while introducing them to contemporary India. KIP has evolved to provide tailored experiences for different age groups. The 90th edition specifically targets young professionals aged 24–28. Purpose of the Programme

The programme aims to:

- Reconnect diaspora youth with their Indian roots. - Increase understanding of India’s cultural heritage. - Introduce participants to democratic institutions. - Provide insights into governance and policymaking. - Showcase progress in science and technology. - Highlight infrastructure and educational development. - Introduce India’s entrepreneurship ecosystem. - Promote understanding of linguistic and regional diversity. - Strengthen long-term diaspora engagement. - Build relationships among young professionals of Indian origin. Programme Duration and Cohort Size

The 90th edition includes:

- Duration: Two weeks, including travel time.

- Number of participants: 25.

- Target cohort: Young professionals of Indian origin.

- Age range: 24–28 years.

- Format: Cultural, educational, institutional, and professional exposure in India.

Applicants should consult the official announcement for confirmed dates and destinations. Key Areas of Exposure

Participants will gain insights into

- Indian history and cultural heritage. - Democratic institutions. - Governance. - Policymaking. - Science and technology. - Infrastructure. - Education. - Entrepreneurship. - Regional and linguistic diversity. - Yoga. - Classical arts. - Contemporary development. - India’s civilizational heritage. The programme combines institutional learning with cultural immersion. Democratic Institutions and Governance

Participants will receive exposure to India’s democratic and governance systems

Activities may include:

- Visits to public institutions. - Sessions on democratic governance. - Interaction with policymakers. - Discussions about public administration. - Exposure to policymaking bodies. - Learning about national, state, and local governance. - Discussions on citizen participation. - Insights into India’s constitutional and institutional framework. These activities aim to help participants understand how contemporary India is governed. Science and Technology The programme showcases India’s achievements in science, research, technology, and innovation.

Participants may learn about

- Digital transformation. - Scientific institutions. - Technology startups. - Digital public services. - Space and research programs. - Healthcare technology. - Education technology. - Financial technology. - Sustainable innovation. - Technology-led development. The exact institutions visited will depend on the official itinerary. Infrastructure and Education The programme may introduce participants to India’s progress in: - Transportation. - Digital infrastructure. - Urban development. - Rural development. - Higher education. - Skills development. - Research. - Public-service delivery. - Sustainable infrastructure. This exposure helps participants understand India’s evolving economic and social landscape. Entrepreneurship India’s growing entrepreneurship ecosystem is a major thematic area.

Participants may gain insights into

- Startup development. - Business incubation. - Social entrepreneurship. - Digital enterprises. - Youth-led ventures. - Innovation hubs. - Market development. - Technology-enabled businesses. - Investment ecosystems. - Enterprise support. These interactions may create opportunities for future professional collaboration and diaspora engagement. Cultural and Civilizational Heritage

Participants will experience India’s cultural and civilizational traditions

Activities may include:

- Visits to iconic heritage sites. - Yoga sessions. - Classical arts. - Music and dance. - Regional traditions. - Historical learning. - Traditional crafts. - Cultural performances. - Language and literature. - Community interactions. The programme presents Indian heritage as both historically significant and relevant to contemporary society. State and Union Territory Visits

Participants will visit at least two Indian states or union territories

These visits are intended to provide direct exposure to: - Different languages. - Regional cultures. - Local traditions. - Distinctive histories. - State-level development. - Regional industries. - Local institutions. - Diverse social environments. The destinations will be determined by the official programme itinerary. Financial Support The Government of India provides substantial financial and logistical support.

The programme covers:

- 90% of eligible international airfare. - Accommodation in designated hotels. - Internal transportation in India. - Airport transfers within India. - Local hospitality. - Gratis visas issued by Indian Missions or Posts.

Participants are responsible for

- 10% of international airfare. - Valid international travel insurance. - Valid medical insurance. - Personal or other costs not covered by the official programme terms. International Airfare Support The Government of India covers 90% of the eligible international airfare. Selected participants must pay the remaining 10%. For example, if the approved airfare costs $1,000: - Government support would cover $900. - The participant would contribute $100. This example is illustrative. Actual support wil