India Sends Largest Contingent to WorldSkills Shanghai 2026

India has sent its largest-ever contingent of 70 skilled competitors to the 48th WorldSkills Competition in Shanghai, China, scheduled from 22 to 27 September 2026. The Indian team will compete in 63 of the 64 skill categories at the National Exhibition and Convention Centre in Shanghai.

WorldSkills Competition

The WorldSkills Competition is an international skills event for young professionals and trainees. It is organised in different skill trades and technologies, including construction, manufacturing, information technology, and service sectors.

India’s Participation in 2026

India will make its debut in 11 skill categories at the 2026 edition. These categories 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 contingent includes participants from 16 states. Karnataka, Odisha, and Tamil Nadu have the largest representation in the team.

Institutional Support and Preparation

The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and the National Skill Development Corporation are leading India’s participation and preparation for the competition. A send-off ceremony for the contingent was held in New Delhi on 15 September 2026, and Minister of State Jayant Chaudhary addressed the team.

Jindal Steel has joined as an official sponsor for India’s participation in WorldSkills Shanghai 2026.

Important Facts for Exams

• WorldSkills Competition is held for young skilled professionals across multiple vocational trades and technologies.
• Shanghai will host the 48th WorldSkills Competition at the National Exhibition and Convention Centre.
• India will compete in 63 out of 64 skill categories in the 2026 edition.
• India’s global skills ranking improved from 29th in 2015 to 13th in 2024.

India’s Recent Performance in Skill Events

India secured 8th rank at WorldSkills Asia 2025. The country also won five medals at the Taipei Capital Cup 2026.