Bhubaneswar: Odisha has emerged as the top-performing state at IndiaSkills 2025–26, securing the highest number of medals and reinforcing its growing reputation in skill development and training.
The state secured a total of 57 medals at the national-level competition, which concluded at the India Expo Centre and Mart in Greater Noida.
Out of 90 participants representing Odisha, 57 competitors won medals, including 15 gold, 12 silver and 14 bronze. In addition, 16 participants received Medallions for Excellence, reflecting strong overall performance by the state’s contingent.
Congratulating the winners, Skill Development and Technical Education Minister Sampad Chandra Swain said the achievement reflects Odisha’s focus on building a future-ready workforce and strengthening youth empowerment. He highlighted that the performance demonstrates the state’s training standards, institutional support and emphasis on skill excellence.
He also expressed confidence that Odisha will continue to perform strongly at international platforms.
Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Skill Development and Technical Education Department Bhupendra Singh Poonia and World Skill Center CEO Rashmi Ranjan Mohapatra also congratulated the participants for their performance and wished them success in upcoming global competitions.
The medal winners were given a warm reception upon their arrival at Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar.
Officials from the World Skill Center noted that the achievement reflects the dedication, discipline and technical capabilities of Odisha’s youth, along with the strength of the state’s skilling ecosystem.
IndiaSkills 2025–26 was organised by the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and saw participation from more than 650 candidates from across the country. Competitions were held across multiple sectors, including construction, manufacturing, information and communication technology, creative arts and services.
The competition was conducted at various locations, including Greater Noida and centres in Odisha and other states. Successful candidates from the national championship will go on to represent India at the WorldSkills Competition, showcasing their skills on a global stage.
