Special 85th Edition of the Know India Programme (KIP)
06 January – 27 January 2026
Embassy of India, Berne is pleased to inform members of the Indian diaspora about the upcoming Special 85th Edition of the Know India Programme (KIP), being organised by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India, from 06 January to 27 January 2026.
About the Know India Programme (KIP)
The Know India Programme (KIP) is a flagship outreach initiative designed to strengthen the bonds between Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) aged 21–35 years and their ancestral homeland. The programme provides participants with an immersive experience of India’s:
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Cultural and civilizational heritage
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Contemporary developments in science & technology
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Innovations and start-up ecosystem
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Economic growth and governance
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Art, culture, and societal progress
Since its launch in 2003–04, the MEA has successfully conducted 83 editions, hosting 2,999 PIO youth from around the world.
What Makes the 85th Edition Special?
The 85th KIP has been designated a Special Edition. In partnership with the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, selected KIP participants will also take part in the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue (VBYLD), scheduled alongside the National Youth Festival on 12 January 2026.
The VBYLD aims to empower young leaders from India and the diaspora by encouraging ideation, leadership, and innovation. Through its Viksit Bharat Challenge Track, participants will collaborate on ten thematic areas linked to India’s national priorities, including governance, education, sustainability, and entrepreneurship.
The Challenge includes four progressive stages:
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Online Quiz
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Essay Competition
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Presentations and Leadership Assessments
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National Championship, where finalists will present their ideas to the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi.
Selected participants of KIP-85 may have the privilege of presenting their ideas on this national platform.
The VBYLD will convene 3,000 exceptional youth leaders from India and overseas and will feature the following tracks:
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Viksit Bharat Challenge Track
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Cultural Track
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Design for Bharat – Design Track
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Hack for a Social Cause – Tech Track
Participants will also be mentored by “Pathbreakers”—young achievers guiding participants across the programme.
Participation Details
The MEA will select 40 PIO youth (aged 21–35 years) from around the world for a three-week visit to India under KIP-85. Given the special nature of this edition, including potential interaction with the Hon’ble Prime Minister, the Indian Embassy in Berne seeks wide participation from the Indian diaspora in Switzerland and Liechtenstein to actively consider participating in this prestigious initiative.
Click here to see the Guidelines for Know India Programme
