MOIA to Launch ‘Know India Programme’ for Diaspora

The Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs – MOIA – has signed a MoU with the Confederation of Indian Industry to organize the latest edition of the Know India Programme (KIP), from 29 August 2007 – 15 September 2007.

The 3-week long KIP envisages helping Diaspora youth to learn more about Indian culture and the developments taking place in the country, says Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs Vayalar Ravi.

Earlier known as the Internship Programme for Diaspora Youth (IPDY), KIP would primarily focus Indian origin youth in the African countries, the Carribean, Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia rather than Non Resident Indians (NRIs).

Till now, 176 youths from 39 countries have already applied for Internship Programme. Indian missions are carrying out the procedure of selecting candidates for the next round of the programme.

Participants include overseas Indians in the age group of 20-28 years, who have distinguished themselves in any field and have links with India through parentage. They will also be given a chance to meet senior dignitaries of India including the President and Prime Minister.

Such programmes bring a unique chance for students and young professionals of Indian origin to share their views and strengthen their bond with modern India. KIP will be held in partnership with a state government that hosts the participants in coordination with the Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan.

Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs is planning to launch three more KIPs in the current year.

Photo: Immigration arrival hall at DPS airport (International Bali Airport) by Pinterpandai.com, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.