New Delhi, September 16 (APAC Media): The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has flagged off India’s largest-ever contingent of 70 skilled young competitors for WorldSkills Shanghai 2026.
The send-off ceremony was held at Kaushal Bhawan, New Delhi, ahead of the 48th WorldSkills Competition, scheduled in Shanghai from September 22 to 27. Team India will compete across 63 skill categories, showcasing expertise in technology, precision, innovation, and craftsmanship.
Addressing the contingent, Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State (Independent Charge), MSDE and Minister of State for Education, said the team represents a confident, creative and digitally agile generation ready to compete globally. He also highlighted the government’s efforts to take skilling to scale through skill competitions, Kaushal Mahotsavs and stronger partnerships with States and industry.
India Expands Footprint in Emerging Skills
For the first time, India will compete in 11 new and emerging skill categories, including Dental Prosthetics, Digital Interactive Media Design, Intelligent Security Technology, Optoelectronic Technology, Retail Sales, Unmanned Aerial Systems, Software Testing, Aircraft Maintenance and Heavy Vehicle Technology.
Competitors have undergone specialised training supported by State Governments, Sector Skill Councils, training institutions, industry partners, experts and mentors, with access to advanced facilities, simulations, equipment and international exposure.
WorldSkills India Champions Club to Mentor Youth
The ceremony also saw the launch of the first cohort of 16 members of the WorldSkills India Champions Club.
The club will bring together former competitors and medallists to mentor aspiring participants, share their international experience and encourage more young people to pursue vocational skills with confidence and excellence.
WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 is expected to bring together more than 1,400 competitors from over 60 countries and regions, making it an important global platform for showcasing vocational excellence.
India’s Global Skills Performance Gains Momentum
India’s performance at international skills competitions has strengthened in recent years. The country improved its position from 29th in 2015 to 13th at WorldSkills Lyon 2024, where it won four Bronze Medals and 12 Medallions for Excellence.
India also secured eighth position in Asia at WorldSkills Asia 2025.
With its 70-member team heading to Shanghai, India’s latest participation highlights the growing focus on skills, technology, innovation, and global competitiveness.
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