IndiaSkills National Competition 2025-26 kicks off in a grand manner

Lucknow/Greater Noida, March 29 : Under the Skill India Mission, the IndiaSkills National Competition 2025-26 was inaugurated in a grand ceremony on Sunday at Gautam Buddha University in Greater Noida. 

Around 650 participants from across the country are showcasing their talents in 63 different skill categories. Participation from all states and Union Territories has made it a vibrant example of the vision of “Skilled India.”

The government led by Yogi Adityanath in Uttar Pradesh has been consistently focusing on connecting youth with skill training and providing employment opportunities. Through the Uttar Pradesh Skill Development Mission, lakhs of young people in the state have been linked to training, upskilling, and employment.

This national competition in Greater Noida is being seen as an important step toward strengthening the state’s skill economy and establishing Uttar Pradesh as a “skill hub.”

Addressing the event, Debashree Mukherjee, Secretary of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, said, “Skilling is a continuous process developed through practice and dedication.” Calling the participants “skill icons,” she said their journey itself is a significant achievement. 

She further emphasized that skill development is not just about individual growth but is closely linked to the nation’s overall development, and that India’s youth will play a crucial role in making the country a global “Skill Nation.”

Manisha Sharma, Senior Advisor at the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, stated that India is currently ranked 13th in the WorldSkills rankings and 8th in Asia. She added that through skilling, reskilling, and upskilling, youth are being prepared for the future.

The event began with an inaugural address by Arun Kumar Pillai, CEO of the National Skill Development Corporation, who highlighted skill development as the foundation of the country’s progress and motivated the youth to strive for excellence.

At the conclusion, Prashant Sinha, Chief Operating Officer of the National Skill Development Corporation, expressed gratitude to all guests and participants.

A march past by teams from various states showcased the spirit of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat,” while cultural performances added enthusiasm and color to the event.

One of the key highlights of the event was the oath-taking ceremony, where Sadhana, a participant from the Uttar Pradesh Skill Development Mission, administered an oath to all participants to compete with fairness, honesty, and dedication.