The contest, an initiative of Ford Models, receives participation from over 50 countries. The winner will sign an international modelling contract with Ford Models worth $250,000. The two runners-up will receive contracts worth $150,000 and $100,000 respectively.

"In the last 31 years, we have discovered faces that went on to become legends in the world of fashion and glamour. India's presence on the global fashion map is only increasing. We at Ford don't want to miss out on this wave. We have tied up with Fever Entertainment to launch the India chapter of the 2011 hunt, and they have helped us rope in some of the biggest names in the Indian fashion fraternity," Agnes Ponarska of Ford Models, said in a statement.

"Now girls from India will get a worldwide platform to showcase their beauty, and we are confident that Ford Super Model of the World-India is poised to turn many a head," she added.

Post the nationwide auditions, 20 contestants will be groomed and trained by leading industry experts, following which they will be judged by a panel comprising big names from the industry.

The winner from India will not only get a chance to be a part of the international contest, but also a cover shoot with Marie Claire and a chance to walk the ramp at the next Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week.

In addition, select candidates will also stand a chance to be signed by Ford Models internationally.

Interested candidates can apply through the official website www.fordsupermodelindia.com for details on contest eligibility, rules and other participation details. The contest is open to women of Indian origin only, between the age of 18 and 23.

The auditions are being organised in Mumbai (May 23), Bangalore (May 25), Kolkata (May 27) and New Delhi (May 30).