High Commission of India

Gaborone, Botswana

88th Edition of Know India Programme (KIP)

Know India Programme (KIP) is an initiative by the Ministry of External Affairs for the Indian Diaspora youth between the age group of 24-28 years. The primary objective of the KIP is to foster a closer connection between Indian diaspora youth and their ancestral homeland by augmenting their understanding of India.

Key Provisions:

1. The Programme would be open to youth of Indian origin, including Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs), as well as for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs).
   
   
2. The eligibility age criteria for participants was revised from 21–35 years to 18–28 years, with participants divided into two cohorts: 18–23 years (Scholars and Innovators) and 24–28 years (Young Professionals).
   
3. Separate editions of the Programme would be organized for the two cohorts, with each edition comprising of 25 participants.
   
   
4. The duration of each Programme will be two weeks, inclusive of travel time.
   
   
5. Preference will be accorded to NRIs residing in the Gulf region and to applicants who have not previously visited India.

How to Apply:

1) Download the application form here (click here) 

2) Send the duly filled application form at cons.gaborone@mea.gov.in

3) Guidelines for KIP

Deadline to receive applications by Missions/Posts:

Eligibility criteria and other important points:

(a) Age: The programme is open to youth of Indian origin, including Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs), and Non- Resident Indians (NRIs). Participants have been grouped into two cohorts based on age, namely ‘Scholars and Innovators’ and ‘Young Professionals’, with eligibility determined as on the first day of the month in which the programme is scheduled to commence.

• Scholars and Innovators: 18–23 years
• Young Professionals: 24–28 years

(b) PIO applicants must provide their OCI card number or PIO card number, or that of their parents or grandparents. In the absence of documentary proof of Indian origin, the applicants must submit a written undertaking affirming their Indian origin, duly attested by the DCM/DCG or the HOM/HOP of the concerned Indian Mission/Post.

(c) Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) are eligible to apply under the programme. Preference will be accorded to NRIs residing in the Gulf region and those who have not visited India previously. NRI applicants must provide proof of Indian citizenship/residency abroad to qualify for NRI status as

prescribed by the Government of India.

(d) The Programme shall have a total intake of 25 participants per cohort in each edition, selected in accordance with the prescribed eligibility and selection criteria.

(e) Previous participation: The applicant must not have participated in any previous edition of the Know India Programme or in any other programme organized and funded by the Ministry of External Affairs, or by any other Ministry/Department of the Government of India or a State Government in India.

(f) Educational Qualification: The minimum qualification required for participants in the “Scholars and Innovators” cohort is 12th Class Graduation from a school/institution recognized by the host Government. The minimum qualification required for participation of “Young Professionals” cohorts in the Programme is Graduation from a recognized University/Institute.

(g) Language: Applicants must be proficient in spoken English and should have either studied English as a subject at the High School level or completed their undergraduate education with English as the medium of instruction.

(h) All KIP participants will be required to submit a valid comprehensive international travel and medical insurance policy covering the entire duration of their stay in India.

(i) Duration : Separate editions of the Programme will be conducted for the two distinct cohorts with each edition comprising of 25 participants, as follows: 

• 18–23 years: Scholars and Innovators (2 weeks including travel time, 25 participants)
• 24–28 years: Young Professionals (2 weeks including travel time, 25 participants)

(j)  Submission Of Programme Report By The Selected Participants: For successful completion of the KIP, participants will be required to submit a 750–1000-word Programme Report outlining their experiences and insights gained during the programme. The report shall comprise of key takeaways of the KIP and how the programme has helped the participants acquire a better understanding of contemporary India and its rich cultural legacy. Participants will be awarded certificates upon completion of each edition of the programme.

For any queries, please write to : cons.gaborone@mea.gov.in