Press Release

Press Release from State Institute of Capacity Building, Skill Development Department

Information & Public Relations Department

Date: 06-Apr-2026
Sikkim Shines at Skill India Competition 2026 with Bronze Medal Win
Gangtok, April 6, 2026: The State of Sikkim proudly marked its presence at the Skill India Competition 2026, the National Level Competition of which was held at India Expo Mart, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, from 29th February to 2nd April 2026. The India Skills Competition is a Flagship initiative of the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Government of India, with the objective of creating a premier platform where participants can demonstrate excellence, innovation, and technical proficiency, elevating the status of vocational skills in India thereby boosting India's global presence in the skilling ecosystem while aligning with national priorities such as Atmanirbhar Viksit Bharat focusing on building a skilled, productive workforce and enhancing employment opportunities for youth by fostering partnerships with Industry Leaders.
The prestigious National-Level Competition witnessed participation from skilled youth across the country, showcasing excellence in various trades and vocational disciplines. As an acknowledgement of the stature, significance, & momentousness of the event, the Closing Ceremony was chaired by Shri. Jayant Chaudhary, the Hon’ble Central Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development & boasted the presence of Ministers in Charge of Skill Development from Haryana, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh & Bihar, apart from senior Officials from the Central & various State Governments.
Under the aegis of the Skill Development Department, Government of Sikkim, a team of four skilled competitors represented Sikkim at the event, having successfully competed in the Regional Level Competition held at Guwahati during January, 2026. The winners & runners up in each of the 63 sectors in the Regional Level Competition were allowed to compete in the National Competition. The four competitors representing the State in this prestigious National Competition were Mr. Saurav Gurung & Miss Hishey Bhutia in the Health & Social Care Sector; Mr. Pritam Kumar Bhagat in Cloud Computing & Mr. Abhijit Kirtunia in Web Technology. This was the first time that the State had officially participated in this Competition.
Demonstrating remarkable skills, dedication, and competitive spirit & competing against some of the best-skilled participants from across India, the Sikkim contingent performed commendably & in a significant achievement for the state, Mr. Saurav Gurung won the Bronze Medal in the Health & Social Care Sector, bringing pride and recognition to Sikkim’s growing skilling ecosystem. Apart from a medal, Saurav was also awarded a cash prize of Rupees fifty thousand. He will further undergo a selection process to represent the Country in the International Skill Competition scheduled to be held in Shanghai, China, during October, 2026.
This accomplishment reflects the effectiveness of ongoing skill development initiatives of the State Government & the emphasis & concern that the Hon'ble Chief Minister, Shri. Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) has for the youth of the State & their overall empowerment specially in terms of providing them with meaningful & sustainable employment through employable skilling, apart from exhibiting his commitment towards nurturing the talent of the youth of the State in all fields.
The Skill India Competition serves as a platform to promote vocational excellence and aligns with the vision of empowering youth through industry-relevant skills & Sikkim’s participation and success therein highlight the State’s continuous efforts in advancing skill development and creating opportunities for its youth.