The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) held a send-off ceremony in New Delhi for India’s contingent participating in the WorldSkills Competition Shanghai 2026, marking another significant step in the country’s efforts to strengthen its global presence in vocational skills and technical excellence.
India will send its largest-ever contingent of 70 young competitors to the 48th WorldSkills Competition, which will take place in Shanghai, China, from September 22 to 27. The Indian participants will compete across 63 skill categories, demonstrating expertise in areas ranging from advanced technologies and digital services to specialised industrial trades and craftsmanship.
The send-off event at Kaushal Bhawan was attended by Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and Minister of State for Education. Shri Kapil Dev Aggarwal, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Vocational Education, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship in Uttar Pradesh, and Shri Ashish Sood, Minister for Home, Education, Power, Urban Development, Higher Education, and Training & Technical Education, Government of NCT of Delhi, were also present. Shri Naveen Jindal, Member of Parliament and Chairman of Jindal Steel, attended the ceremony.
Addressing the competitors, Jayant Chaudhary described Team India as a representation of a confident and digitally capable generation prepared to compete internationally. He highlighted the expansion of India’s skilling ecosystem and stressed the importance of skill competitions, Kaushal Mahotsavs and partnerships between governments, training institutions and industry.
Chaudhary encouraged the competitors to rely on their preparation and approach the competition with confidence. He also expressed the aspiration that India could eventually host global skill competitions of this scale. During the event, he wore the newly unveiled competitor attire that Team India will use during the Shanghai competition, underlining the spirit of unity and teamwork.
Uttar Pradesh Minister Kapil Dev Aggarwal highlighted the state’s contribution to the Skill India Mission through training, entrepreneurship initiatives and industry partnerships. He expressed confidence in the state’s participating youth and reiterated the commitment to expanding opportunities for skill development across Uttar Pradesh.
Ashish Sood emphasised the importance of connecting education, practical skills and employment. He noted that structured training and appropriate exposure can help young people achieve international standards while creating pathways towards employment and entrepreneurship.
Industry participation is also supporting Team India’s campaign. Jindal Steel is the Official Merchandise Sponsor for WorldSkills Shanghai 2026, supporting ceremonial and competition attire for Indian competitors. Naveen Jindal said the young participants represent discipline, confidence and determination and wished the contingent success in showcasing Indian capabilities globally.
A key feature of India’s participation this year is its entry into 11 new skill categories. These include Dental Prosthetics, Digital Interactive Media Design, Intelligent Security Technology, Landscape Gardening, Optoelectronic Technology, Retail Sales, Unmanned Aerial Systems, Industrial Mechanics, Software Testing, Heavy Vehicle Technology and Aircraft Maintenance. The expansion reflects the changing requirements of industry and the increasing emphasis on technology-driven and specialised skills.
Team India’s preparation has involved State Governments, Sector Skill Councils, training institutions, industry partners, experts and mentors. Competitors have received access to specialised equipment, facilities, simulations, technical guidance and international exposure to prepare for global competition standards.
The ceremony also saw the announcement of the first 16 members of the WorldSkills India Champions Club. The initiative brings together former competitors and medallists who will serve as ambassadors, mentors and sources of inspiration for future participants in India’s skills movement.
WorldSkills is a major international platform for vocational excellence. The Shanghai edition is expected to feature more than 1,400 competitors from over 60 countries and regions, competing across 64 skill competitions.
India has steadily improved its standing at international skill competitions. From 29th place in 2015, the country rose 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 70 competitors heading to Shanghai, India’s contingent will represent the efforts of trainers, mentors, institutions, industry partners and families while showcasing the country’s growing capabilities in technical and vocational skills.
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Author: Shivam
Shivam Dwivedi is a senior journalist with extensive experience in research-driven journalism, policy communication, and multi-platform storytelling. His areas of interest include international relations, defence, science & technology, education, urban development, agriculture, spirituality, and environmental sustainability. His work focuses on in-depth analysis, public discourse, and impactful narratives across governance and development sectors, with a strong commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Contact: [email protected]
