The 86th edition of the Know India Program is set to bring together young members of the Indian diaspora from around the world for an immersive experience in India’s heritage, culture, and contemporary development. Scheduled to take place from January 9 to 28, 2026, the Program will welcome approximately 40 participants aged between 21 and 35 who have roots in India and wish to deepen their connection with the country of their ancestry. Organized by the Ministry of External Affairs, this initiative continues a long tradition of engaging diaspora youth and fostering a sense of belonging and cultural understanding.

The primary aim of the Know India Program is to reconnect diaspora youth with India’s cultural roots while exposing them to the nation’s modern achievements and ongoing transformations. Over three weeks, participants will take part in a combination of educational workshops, cultural immersions, site visits, and interactive sessions with government officials, scholars, and community leaders. The Program provides a holistic view of India, blending the rich civilizational heritage with contemporary socio-economic developments, and offering young Indians abroad a chance to experience the country firsthand.

This edition of the Program has been integrated with the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue and the National Youth Festival, adding a distinctive leadership and innovation dimension. The Young Leaders Dialogue brings together young visionaries from India and the diaspora to engage in discussions on governance, sustainability, entrepreneurship, education, and social impact. Participants in the Know India Program will have opportunities to contribute ideas, present solutions to real-world challenges, and take part in collaborative projects designed to develop leadership skills and a forward-thinking mindset.

One of the highlights of this edition is the interactive platform where participants will engage with senior leaders, policy makers, and peer groups from across India and abroad. These sessions are intended to foster creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills while encouraging a sense of shared responsibility for addressing global and national challenges. Activities include workshops on design thinking, technology for social good, and innovation challenges, offering practical and experiential learning opportunities.

Cultural immersion is another key component of the Know India Program. Participants will visit historic monuments, heritage sites, and museums, attend classical music and dance performances, and engage with traditional artisans and cultural practitioners. Through these experiences, participants gain an understanding of India’s diverse artistic traditions and pluralistic society.

Alongside cultural engagement, participants will also explore India’s developmental landscape. Visits to industrial hubs, technology parks, educational institutions, and research centers provide insight into India’s strides in innovation, digital transformation, infrastructure, and sustainable development. Participants witness firsthand how India is leveraging science and technology to address societal needs while encouraging entrepreneurship and economic growth.

The Program further emphasizes India’s achievements in science, technology, and entrepreneurship. Participants have the opportunity to visit laboratories, research institutes, and start-up ecosystems, gaining exposure to emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, clean energy, space research, and life sciences. Interactive sessions with innovators, entrepreneurs, and policy experts provide practical knowledge about how ideas are transformed into impactful solutions.

An important element of the Know India Program is the opportunity for cross-cultural exchange among participants. Youth from diverse countries, professional backgrounds, and cultural contexts share experiences and perspectives, building networks and fostering understanding across borders. These exchanges not only strengthen global connections but also reinforce participants’ sense of identity and belonging to India.

For many, the Know India Program is a transformative experience that deepens their understanding of India’s history, contemporary realities, and future trajectory. It encourages participants to reflect on their personal and professional identities, consider ways to contribute to India’s development, and develop a nuanced perspective on the country’s role in global affairs. The Program often leaves a lasting impression, inspiring participants to engage with India meaningfully, whether through cultural, social, or professional initiatives.

The Program also serves to strengthen India’s bonds with its diaspora community. By providing young members of the global Indian community with a comprehensive understanding of the country’s culture and modern achievements, it reinforces connections with their heritage while promoting intercultural dialogue. At the same time, host communities in India benefit from the engagement and insights of diaspora participants, enriching local interactions and fostering mutual understanding.

Overall, the 86th Know India Program represents a unique platform where culture, heritage, and contemporary development converge to engage and inspire young diaspora leaders. Participants return home with knowledge, experiences, and networks that equip them to become ambassadors of India’s culture and progress. The Program highlights India’s commitment to its global community and demonstrates the enduring importance of connecting the younger generation of Indians abroad with their roots, traditions, and the evolving realities of the country.