Apply for the 89th Know India Programme 2026 for Young Scholars and Innovators of Indian Origin
Application Deadline:
27 August 2026
About Organisation
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India is responsible for managing India’s foreign relations and strengthening diplomatic, economic, cultural and people-to-people connections with countries around the world. The Ministry also develops programmes that engage the Indian diaspora and encourage stronger connections between overseas Indians and India. Through initiatives such as the Know India Programme, MEA provides young members of the Indian diaspora with opportunities to understand India’s heritage, society, economy, institutions, science, technology and contemporary development. The programme supports India’s wider efforts to build meaningful engagement with diaspora communities and encourage young people of Indian origin to participate in India’s development journey.
About the Grant
The Know India Programme (KIP) is a flagship initiative of the Ministry of External Affairs designed to connect young members of the Indian diaspora with their ancestral homeland. The 89th edition will be held in India from 15 to 29 September 2026 and includes a special Scholars and Innovators cohort for eligible diaspora youth aged 18–23. Participants will gain exposure to India’s cultural heritage, economy, science, technology, innovation, entrepreneurship and contemporary development. The programme combines educational visits, institutional interactions, cultural experiences and networking opportunities. Selected participants receive programme-related hospitality and travel support according to the applicable KIP guidelines.
Who can Apply?
The 89th edition’s Scholars and Innovators cohort is intended for young members of the Indian diaspora aged 18–23 years. The official announcement states that the programme is open to eligible Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs), and Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). Applicants must satisfy the specific eligibility and documentation requirements contained in the 2026 KIP guidelines. Candidates should provide appropriate evidence of their Indian-origin or NRI status and ensure that their application and supporting documents are complete. Applicants should also be available for the entire programme period from 15 to 29 September 2026.
How to Apply?
Check your eligibility under the 89th KIP Scholars and Innovators guidelines and prepare the required identification, educational and Indian-origin/NRI documentation. Download the official application form and complete it accurately. Submit the completed application and required supporting documents to the relevant Indian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate according to its instructions. Applications must reach the relevant Indian Mission by 27 August 2026.
Application Deadline
The application deadline is 27 August 2026
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
