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Indiaspora launches India heritage program for diaspora teenagers
The initiative will bring together 17- to 19-year-old Indian-origin students from six countries.
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Malvika Choudhary - Mon, 17, Aug 2026
- 16:54 EDT
- 52
Indiaspora Heritage Connect Program / X/ @IndiasporaForum
Indiaspora launched the Indiaspora Heritage Connect Program, a new 12-day heritage and leadership initiative for Indian-origin youth, with applications opening August 15.
The program is designed for high school juniors and seniors aged 17 to 19 from the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, Singapore and Australia.
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“For years, Indiaspora has brought together global Indian leaders to inspire one another, deepen their connection to India, and create impact across borders,” the organization said in announcing the initiative. “This program extends that same mission to the next generation: to the sons and daughters of the diaspora.”
The program will run from Dec. 21 through Jan. 1, 2027, with participants departing India on Jan. 2, 2027. The initiative will combine visits to India's historical and cultural landmarks with experiences focused on leadership, social impact, entrepreneurship and contemporary India.
We're proud to introduce this new IndiasporaNEXT initiative: a 12-day heritage and leadership journey across India for diaspora high school juniors and seniors, aged 17 to 19, from the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, Singapore and Australia. For… pic.twitter.com/QlcORz5EaM
— Indiaspora (@IndiasporaForum) August 17, 2026
Applications will close Sept. 30, followed by virtual interviews from Oct. 1 to 15. Final selections are scheduled for Oct. 20.
Indiaspora said it expects to select a small cohort of 12 to 15 students.
The tentative itinerary begins in New Delhi before taking participants to Bal Ashram in Viratnagar, Rajasthan, where they will learn about the Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion and interact with youth leaders and local changemakers. An audience with Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi is also planned, although Indiaspora has said the interaction is subject to confirmation.
Bal Ashram, established in 1998, is a long-term rehabilitation center for children rescued from child labor, trafficking and exploitation and is part of the Satyarthi Movement for Global Compassion.
The program will also take students to Jaipur, where they will visit Amer Fort, Hawa Mahal and City Palace, and to Agra to see the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort.
In New Delhi, participants are scheduled to visit Parliament House, Kartavya Path, India Gate, Dilli Haat, Connaught Place, Akshardham Temple, the Lotus Temple and Humayun's Tomb. The itinerary also includes a visit to the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art, a visit to a leading nonprofit, and an interaction with a startup founder.
The organization said the program is intended to encourage participants to reflect on identity, leadership and social impact, while building relationships with other young members of the global Indian community.
Indiaspora said applicants should have an interest in India's history and culture. Additionally, it is also seeking students who are open to diverse perspectives and enthusiastic about engaging with fellow participants.
The program fee is $5,500, covering accommodation in New Delhi, Jaipur and Bal Ashram in Viratnagar, as well as local transportation, meals, program activities, entry tickets and airport transfers. International airfare, visas, travel and medical insurance and personal expenses are not included.
The organization is inviting applications here.
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