Lucknow, September 2026: Two young participants from Uttar Pradesh are representing India at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 as part of the 70-member Team India, the country's largest-ever contingent at the competition.
The various skill competitions at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 began on September 23. The four-day event commenced following the opening ceremony held on the evening of September 22, during which Team India participated in the ‘Parade of Nations’ alongside delegations from across the world.
The participation of two young contestants from Uttar Pradesh in the 70-member Indian contingent is a matter of pride for the state. Kaif Khan from Lucknow and Rudra Pratap from Lakhimpur Kheri have reached Shanghai to represent India in their respective skill categories and showcase the talent and capabilities of Uttar Pradesh's youth on the international stage.
Among the 63 skill categories in which Indian participants are competing, Kaif Khan is representing India in Car Painting, while Rudra Pratap is competing in Concrete Construction Work.
Kaif Khan has won gold medals at state, regional and national-level skill competitions in the Car Painting category. During his skill development journey, he received training from Maruti Suzuki and Axalta Coating Systems. He also underwent training in Germany and Denmark to develop his skills in accordance with international standards.
His selection for WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 is the result of his technical expertise, consistent training and performance in various skill competitions. His participation provides him an opportunity to compete against skilled participants from different countries and demonstrate India's capabilities in the automotive painting sector.
Rudra Pratap is representing India in the Concrete Construction Work category. He has won three gold medals at the state, regional and national levels in the discipline.
Under the guidance of L&T, Rudra underwent continuous training and participated in competitions at various levels to enhance his technical proficiency. After succeeding at the national level and completing the subsequent selection process, he secured his place in Team India for the WorldSkills competition.
Notably, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and Minister of State for Education Jayant Chaudhary met both participants during the ‘Send-Off Ceremony’ held at Kaushal Bhawan in New Delhi on September 15. The interaction took place as Team India prepared to depart for Shanghai.
The participation of Kaif Khan and Rudra Pratap at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 marks an important achievement for Uttar Pradesh's growing skilled workforce and provides its young talent with an opportunity to compete on a global platform.
Both participants are entering the competition with the aim of delivering strong performances in their respective disciplines and contributing to India's medal prospects at the international event.
The skill competitions, being held at the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Shanghai, will continue until September 26. The results of the various competitions will be announced on September 27, when the closing ceremony of WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 will also be held.
