The Embassy of India in Muscat has announced that August 27, 2026, is the final day for eligible Indian-origin youth in Oman to apply for the 89th edition of the Know India Programme (KIP). This cohort, themed 'Scholars and Innovators,' is designed for individuals aged 18 to 23 years, with a total capacity of 25 participants. To be eligible, applicants must have reached the age of 18 by September 1, 2026. The program is open to Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs), and Non-Resident Indians (NRIs).
- Final application deadline is August 27, 2026
- Themed Scholars and Innovators for youth aged 18 to 23 years
- Total capacity of 25 participants
- Preference granted to NRIs residing in the Gulf region
A key feature of this edition is the specific preference granted to NRIs residing in the Gulf region, including Oman, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain. Additionally, priority may be given to those who have not previously visited India. Participants are required to possess valid documentation of their Indian-origin status, and those without it may seek certification from their respective Indian Mission. Candidates must also demonstrate proficiency in spoken English, having studied the language in high school or higher education, and possess a minimum qualification of 12th-grade graduation. Individuals who have previously participated in a KIP or any other India-visit program funded by the Ministry of External Affairs or other government bodies are generally ineligible to apply.
The Government of India will cover 90 percent of the international airfare, with the participant responsible for the remaining 10 percent. Once in India, the program will provide for boarding, lodging in designated hotels, local transportation, and airport transfers. Participants requiring visas will be issued gratis visas, while those with Indian passports or OCI cards will follow standard travel document regulations. Each participant must secure comprehensive international travel and medical insurance and may be required to submit a medical fitness certificate.
The 89th KIP is scheduled to take place from September 15 to September 29, 2026. The curriculum aims to expose participants to India's innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem, including interactions with startups, incubators, industry leaders, and research institutions such as IITs, IIMs, ISRO, and BARC. The itinerary will include sessions on initiatives like Digital India, Skill India, Startup India, and Aatmanirbhar Bharat, alongside visits to historical sites like the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, the Taj Mahal, Khajuraho, Konark, Bodh Gaya, and the ghats of Varanasi. The program intends to provide exposure to at least two States or Union Territories to showcase India's cultural and linguistic diversity.
