Chicago, IL .11/24/2025, The Consulate General of India, Chicago is pleased to announce the launch of the Special 85th Edition of the Know India Programme (KIP), to be held from 06 January to 27 January 2026. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India, invites applications from eligible Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) youth (excluding NRIs) aged 21–35 years for this flagship initiative.

The Know India Programme is a premier outreach effort of the Diaspora Engagement Division of the Ministry of External Affairs aimed at reconnecting young diaspora members with their ancestral roots. The programme offers an immersive introduction to India’s art, heritage, culture, economy, innovation ecosystem, science & technology landscape, and contemporary development journey.

Since its inception in 2003–04, the Ministry has successfully organized 83 editions, enabling 2,999 PIO youth to experience the richness, diversity, and dynamism of modern India.

A Special & Unique Edition: Integration with Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue (VBYLD) 2026.The upcoming 85th edition is being designed as one of the most unique in KIP’s history. In a first-of-its-kind collaboration, participants will have the opportunity to take part in the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue (VBYLD), a national-level youth engagement platform aligned with India’s vision of Viksit Bharat @2047, as articulated by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India.

Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue (VBYLD).Ministry of External Affairs (Diaspora Engagement Division):The Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue (VBYLD) 2026 marks the second edition of the reimagined National Youth Festival. Building on the success of VBYLD 2025, this edition continues to celebrate Yuva Shakti — the power of youth — through innovation, collaboration, leadership, and nation-building.

Viksit Bharat Challenge Track — Flagship Component:At the heart of the Dialogue is the Viksit Bharat Challenge Track, which invites youth to ideate and present transformative solutions across 10 national priority tracks, including:Governance,Education,Sustainability,Entrepreneurship,Technology,Social Development,Innovation.

The Challenge unfolds through four competitive stages:Nationwide Online Quiz,Essay Competition,State-Level Presentations & Leadership Assessments,National Championship.The competition culminates in an extraordinary opportunity for finalists to present their vision before the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India.For the first time, select youth from the 85th KIP will also be chosen to present their ideas on this prestigious national stage – a hallmark opportunity for global Indian youth.

Four Dynamic Segments of VBYLD 2026:VBYLD will bring together 3,000 exceptional youth leaders from across India and the global Indian diaspora, through four major segments:Viksit Bharat Challenge Track,Cultural Track ,Design for Bharat -Design Track,Hack for a Social Cause -Tech Track

The Dialogue is further supported by Pathbreakers, a network of young achievers and mentors guiding participants in each track. Together, this initiative aims to empower youth as catalysts for change and nurture leaders capable of shaping a Developed India by 2047.