86th Edition of the Know India Programme (KIP) – Special Edition

The 86th edition of the Know India Programme (KIP) will be a special and unique edition, similar to the 85th KIP. Organized by the Ministry of External Affairs in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, selected participants will take part in the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue (VBYLD) during the National Youth Festival on 12 January 2026.

Through the Viksit Bharat Challenge Track, participants from India and the Indian diaspora will present ideas and solutions on key national priorities such as governance, education, sustainability, and entrepreneurship. The Challenge consists of four stages—online quiz, essay competition, presentations with leadership assessments, and the National Championship, where finalists may present their ideas to the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India.

The VBYLD will bring together 3,000 youth leaders across four tracks: Viksit Bharat Challenge, Cultural, Design for Bharat, and Hack for a Social Cause. Supported by “Pathbreakers” (young achievers and mentors), the programme aims to empower youth as contributors to Viksit Bharat @ 2047.

As in previous editions, 40 PIO youth aged 21–35 will be invited for a 3-week programme in India to connect with their roots and experience India’s progress. Selected participants will receive economy-class return air tickets (with a 10% contribution by participants), 4-star twin-sharing accommodation, and AC Volvo transport throughout the programme.

Applications may be submitted to cons.vilnius@mea.gov.in on or before 18 December 2025. Guidelines, application forms, and flyers are attached for reference.