New Delhi/Lucknow, October 2026: The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has reopened the registration window for the IndiaSkills Competition 2026–27 until October 19, 2026, following multiple requests from institutions and aspiring participants.
The decision comes amid growing interest in skill competitions following Team India's impressive performance at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026, where the country secured the 10th position globally, winning six silver medals and 20 Medals for Excellence.
The enthusiasm received a further boost when Prime Minister Narendra Modi met participants of Team India at his residence, 7 Lok Kalyan Marg, in New Delhi on October 9, 2026, following their participation in WorldSkills Shanghai 2026. The interaction recognised the achievements of India's skilled youth and highlighted the importance of vocational skills and excellence in the country's development.
Following the meeting, the Ministry received several requests from institutions and aspiring participants to reopen registrations for IndiaSkills 2026–27. In response, the registration window has been extended until October 19, providing more young people an opportunity to showcase their skills, compete at the national level and work towards representing India on the global stage.
Approximately four lakh registrations have already been received for IndiaSkills 2026–27, reflecting strong interest among young people in demonstrating their capabilities against national and international benchmarks. Eligible candidates who could not register earlier can now complete their applications on the Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH) by October 19, 2026.
Organised under the aegis of MSDE, with the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) serving as the implementation partner, IndiaSkills 2026–27 features 63 skill categories across sectors such as manufacturing, engineering, construction, digital technology, creative industries and services.
The competition provides a structured pathway through district and zonal, state, regional and national levels. It enables talented young people to demonstrate their abilities, receive guidance from experts and progress towards opportunities to represent India at international skills competitions.
The Ministry has encouraged state governments, Union Territory administrations, Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs), polytechnics, colleges, skill training institutions and industry partners to publicise the reopened registration window and assist eligible candidates with the registration process. The additional opportunity aims to broaden participation and ensure that more aspiring skilled professionals can take part in the competition.
At WorldSkills Shanghai 2026, Team India secured the 10th position, improving on its 13th-place finish at WorldSkills Lyon 2024. India's largest-ever contingent of 70 competitors participated across 63 skills, winning six silver medals and 20 Medals for Excellence.
The team's performance has drawn attention to the opportunities that specialised training, sustained preparation and skill development can create for India's youth. The reopening of registrations is expected to provide additional candidates with a chance to participate in the national competition and pursue opportunities in the global skills arena.
