The Embassy of India in Washington, D.C. has opened applications for the 89th edition of the Know India Programme (KIP) — Scholars and Innovators, a government-sponsored initiative that takes young people of Indian heritage on an immersive journey through India’s culture, history, and modern development. This edition will run in India from September 15 to September 29, 2026, and applications from eligible candidates in the Washington embassy’s jurisdiction must be submitted by August 27, 2026.
If you’re a young adult of Indian descent living in the United States and curious about reconnecting with your roots, here’s everything you need to know about this year’s programme — who qualifies, what’s included, and how to apply before time runs out.
What Is the Know India Programme?
Launched by India’s Ministry of External Affairs, the Know India Programme is designed to give diaspora youth a firsthand look at the country their families trace their heritage to. Rather than a typical guided tour, KIP is built around exposure and engagement — participants explore India’s institutions, meet with cultural and educational leaders, and witness the contemporary developments shaping the nation, all while staying as official guests of the Government of India.
The programme is a recurring one, held in multiple editions each year, with this cycle marking its 89th run.
Who Is Eligible for KIP’s 89th Edition?
Not everyone of Indian descent qualifies automatically — there are specific age, residency, and origin requirements.
Age requirement: Applicants must fall between 18 and 23 years old.
Origin requirement: The programme is reserved for persons of Indian origin (PIO), and notably excludes Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) — meaning Indian citizens currently living abroad are not eligible; the focus is on foreign nationals with Indian heritage. Special preference is extended to applicants from Girmitiya countries — nations with populations descended from indentured Indian laborers sent abroad during the colonial era.
Residency/jurisdiction requirement: This particular application window, run through the Washington, D.C. embassy, is open only to those residing in:
- Bermuda
- District of Columbia
- Kentucky
- Maryland
- North Carolina
- Virginia
- West Virginia
If you live in any other U.S. state, you cannot apply through the Washington embassy. Instead, you’ll need to route your application through the Indian consulate that has jurisdiction over your state.
What Selected Participants Receive
Being chosen for KIP comes with meaningful support from the Indian government:
- Full hospitality in India for the duration of the programme, covering stay and programme-related costs
- 90% coverage of international airfare, significantly reducing the cost of travel from the US to India
- A structured, guided experience covering India’s arts, heritage, institutions, and current developments
Each edition of the programme is capped at 40 participants, making it a fairly selective opportunity — so a complete, well-prepared application matters.
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Documents Required to Apply
Applicants must gather and submit scanned copies of the following:
- Completed KIP application form
- Educational qualification certificate
- Passport copy
- Colour passport-size photograph
- Proof of PIO (Persons of Indian Origin) or OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) status
How to Apply — Step by Step
Applications aren’t submitted through an online portal for this jurisdiction; instead, everything goes through email.
- Download and complete the official application form available via the Embassy of India, Washington D.C.’s website.
- Scan all required supporting documents listed above, ensuring they’re clear and legible.
- Compile everything into a single email.
- Send your application to: psminca.washington@mea.gov.in
- Submit before the deadline — August 27, 2026.
Given the limited number of seats (40 per edition) and the firm cutoff date, applicants are strongly encouraged to apply well ahead of the deadline rather than waiting until the last day.
Key Dates at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Programme dates | September 15–29, 2026 |
| Application deadline | August 27, 2026 |
| Eligible age group | 18–23 years |
| Seats available | Up to 40 |
| Airfare support | 90% of international airfare |
| Application method | Email to psminca.washington@mea.gov.in |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can NRIs apply for the Know India Programme?
No. The 89th edition is intended specifically for Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) living abroad, not Non-Resident Indian citizens.
I live in a US state not listed under the Washington embassy’s jurisdiction — can I still apply?
Yes, but not through this application window. You’ll need to apply via the Indian consulate that covers your specific state.
Is the trip fully paid for?
Participants receive full hospitality in India and 90% coverage of international airfare, meaning most of the major costs are covered, though a small airfare contribution is expected from the participant.
Where can I find the official application form and detailed guidelines?
These are available directly on the Embassy of India, Washington D.C.’s official website under the Know India Programme section.
