Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India invites applications from Indian Diaspora Youth Members (excluding non-resident Indians) in the age group of 21-35 years for the Special upcoming 86th edition of the Know India Programme (KIP) by the Ministry from 09 January to 28 January 2026. 

The upcoming 86th edition of the KIP is projected to be a Special and Unique one similar to the 85th KIP edition, since Ministry of External Affairs, in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, has endeavoured to schedule participation of partakers of this edition in the upcoming Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue (VBYLD) coinciding with the National Youth Festival on January 12, 2026. To celebrate the spirit of Yuva Shakti through Innovation, Leadership, and Collaboration, the VBYLD through the Viksit Bharat Challenge Track will provide a platform for the youth members of both India and the Indian diaspora to ideate on 10 different tracks and present transformative solutions on national priorities of India such as Governance, Education, Sustainability, and Entrepreneurship. The Challenge would unfold through four stages, beginning with an online quiz, followed by an essay competition, presentations and leadership assessments, and culminating in the National Championship, where finalists would present their ideas to the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi. Selected participants of the upcoming 86th KIP would be accorded the distinct and cherished opportunity to present their ideas on this stage. Bringing together 3,000 exceptional youth leaders from across India and the Indian diaspora, VBYLD would feature four dynamic segments: Viksit Bharat Challenge Track, Cultural Track, Design for Bharat- Design Track and Hack for a Social Cause- Tech Track. Supported by Pathbreakers, who are young achievers and mentors guiding participants across tracks, the Dialogue would serve as a national movement to empower youth as catalysts for change and architects of a developed India by 2047. 

Interested individuals may submit scanned copy of duly filled Application Form and required documents to the Consulate General of India, Chicago by email on pic.chicago@mea.gov.in by 18 December 2025.

KIP Application Form 2025

Guidelines for KIP

Concept Note of VBYLD for 86th KIP