Team India has kicked off its campaign at the 48th WorldSkills Competition in Shanghai, with approximately 70 competitors participating across 63 skill categories. The skill competitions began on September 23 at the National Exhibition and Convention Center and will run until September 26.
The Opening Ceremony of the 48th WorldSkills Competition was held on September 22 at the Shanghai World Expo Cultural Center, bringing together nearly 1,400 competitors from more than 65 countries and regions. Carrying the national flag and dressed in Team India colours, the Indian contingent participated in the ‘Parade of Nations’, marking the formal start of the competition.
The competition officially opened in Shanghai, with Chinese President Xi Jinping sending a congratulatory letter and Premier Li Qiang formally declaring the event open at the ceremony.
For the first time, India is participating in 11 skill categories: 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. These categories enhance India’s participation in the fields of emerging technologies, specialized services, and advanced industrial skills.
WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 will feature 64 skill competitions from around the world. Seven skills are being included in this international competition for the first time, including Rail Vehicle Technology, Unmanned Aerial Systems, Intelligent Security Technology, and Software Testing.
Indian competitors underwent months of specialised training, technical preparation and mentoring with support from training institutions, industry partners, experts and Sector Skill Councils. The Ministry said the expanded participation reflects the growing strength of India’s skilling ecosystem.
The biennial WorldSkills Competition brings together young professionals from around the world to showcase technical expertise, creativity and innovation. India aims to build on its WorldSkills Lyon 2024 performance, where it won four bronze medals and 12 Medallions for Excellence, as its competitors take on the global stage in Shanghai.
(PIB)
