India hosted the first BIMSTEC Youth Professional Exchange Programme

The Government of India hosted the first BIMSTEC Young Professionals Exchange Programme from March 9 to March 15, 2026, in Maharashtra, specifically in Mumbai and Pune. 

The programme brought together 30 young innovators, technology developers, entrepreneurs, and professionals from BIMSTEC member countries.

The objective of the programme was to promote knowledge exchange, strengthen collaboration, and familiarize participants with India’s rapidly growing innovation, start-up, research and technology ecosystem. 

During the programme, participants met the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis, who highlighted the state’s vibrant knowledge and innovation ecosystem and its potential as a hub for international partnerships.

The initiative provided valuable exposure to the participants, helping them understand India’s development model and explore opportunities for collaboration and partnerships.

Key Activities of the Programme:
 

Participants visited several major institutions, including the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority, Bharat Diamond Bourse, National Stock Exchange, Infosys, and Symbiosis International University. These visits enabled participants to interact with industry leaders and understand the functioning of key institutions driving innovation and economic growth in India.

The programme was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the 6th BIMSTEC Summit. It reflects India’s commitment to strengthening engagement among the youth of the Bay of Bengal region. 

The initiative is expected to play a significant role in promoting regional unity, fostering innovation, and building lasting networks among emerging leaders of the BIMSTEC region.

India, in line with its ‘Neighborhood First’ and ‘Act East’ policies, recognizes the importance of creating platforms for young professionals, entrepreneurs, and innovators to interact, learn from each other, and build long-term partnerships.

What is BIMSTEC?

BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) is a regional multilateral organization comprising countries in the Bay of Bengal region.

It includes seven member nations—five from South Asia: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and two from Southeast Asia: Myanmar and Thailand.

It was established in 1997 through the Bangkok Declaration. Initially formed with four countries as BIST-EC (Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, and Thailand Economic Cooperation), it was renamed BIMST-EC after Myanmar joined in 1997.

In 2004, after the inclusion of Nepal and Bhutan, it was renamed BIMSTEC. Bangladesh assumed the chairmanship of BIMSTEC in April 2025 for a two-year term.