The Consulate General of India in Chicago has announced that the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) will host a special 85th edition of the Know India Programme (KIP) from January 6 to January 27, 2026. Applications are invited from Indian diaspora youth aged 21 to 35 (excluding non-resident Indians).

KIP is one of MEA’s flagship initiatives, designed to reconnect young Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) with their cultural and ancestral heritage. Through curated interactions, exposure tours, and thematic engagements, participants gain insight into India’s contemporary achievements in culture, economy, science and technology, start-ups, innovation, and governance. Since its launch in 2003–04, the programme has successfully completed 83 editions, enabling nearly 3,000 youth to experience India firsthand.

The upcoming 85th edition promises to be exceptionally unique. In collaboration with the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, participants will also join the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue (VBYLD), held alongside the National Youth Festival on January 12, 2026.

VBYLD will bring together 3,000 young leaders from India and the global Indian diaspora. The event features four major tracks—Viksit Bharat Challenge Track, Cultural Track, Design for Bharat Track, and Hack for a Social Cause Tech Track—highlighting youth innovation and leadership.

A highlight is the Viksit Bharat Challenge, where participants will ideate on ten thematic areas tied to India’s national development priorities, including Governance, Education, Sustainability, and Entrepreneurship. The challenge involves four stages: an online quiz, essay round, presentations with leadership assessments, and a National Championship where top finalists will present their ideas to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Selected KIP participants will have this prestigious opportunity.

Eligible candidates are invited to submit completed applications and supporting documents by December 8, 2025, via email to pic.chicago@mea.gov.in. Guidelines, the application form, a concept note on VBYLD, and an informational flyer are available for public access.

The Consulate emphasized that the programme is a landmark opportunity for diaspora youth to strengthen their bonds with India while contributing to the vision of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by 2047.