Nikhilan JM, a B.Tech. Aerospace Engineering student at Lovely Professional University (LPU), has gained international acclaim by securing seventh place in the Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Technology category at the 48th WorldSkills Competition held in Shanghai, China. This achievement highlights his technical proficiency in a rapidly evolving field that encompasses the design, programming, maintenance, and operation of unmanned aerial systems.

As a student at LPU, Nikhilan is engaged in an academic environment that fosters innovation and practical skills. His journey from a student to a globally recognised competitor illustrates the opportunities provided by the university, which aims to equip its students with the necessary tools to excel in their respective fields.

Qualification for WorldSkills Shanghai 2026

Nikhilan’s path to the WorldSkills Competition began with impressive performances in two key national competitions. He first secured a gold medal at the Regional Skills Competition, which showcased his capabilities in UAS Technology. Following this, he earned a silver medal at the IndiaSkills Competition 2025-26, further solidifying his position as a top contender in the field.

These accomplishments enabled him to qualify for the prestigious WorldSkills Shanghai 2026, where he competed against participants from 69 countries. The competition assessed his practical technical knowledge, precision, and innovation, requiring competitors to assemble, configure, programme, operate, and troubleshoot unmanned aerial systems while completing complex tasks.

The UAS Technology category is particularly relevant in today’s industries, which increasingly utilise drones for various applications, including industrial inspection, surveying, and logistics. Nikhilan’s participation in this category demonstrates his readiness to meet the demands of a technology-driven workforce.

Overview of the WorldSkills Competition

The WorldSkills Competition is an international event that gathers young professionals and skilled competitors to showcase their expertise across a wide range of vocational and technical disciplines. The 48th edition took place in Shanghai, China, in 2026, featuring approximately 1,400 young competitors from over 68 countries and regions.

This event serves as a platform for participants to demonstrate their skills against international standards, covering various categories such as advanced technology and engineering. The competition not only highlights the technical abilities of participants but also promotes the importance of vocational training and skill development in the global economy.

In the UAS Technology category, participants are evaluated on their practical skills, which are essential for building and operating unmanned aerial systems. As industries increasingly adopt these technologies, the skills demonstrated at WorldSkills become crucial for future careers in various sectors.

Recognition from LPU Leadership

Dr Ashok Kumar Mittal, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) and Founder Chancellor of Lovely Professional University, commended Nikhilan’s achievement, emphasising the significance of skilled human capital in enhancing a country’s competitiveness in the global knowledge economy. He articulated that LPU has established an ecosystem that combines industry exposure, research, innovation, and experiential learning to help students realise their potential.

Dr Mittal expressed confidence in Nikhilan’s ability to compete with distinction and inspire other young Indians to strive for excellence in advanced technologies. According to LPU, Nikhilan’s success exemplifies the university’s commitment to fostering an innovation-focused academic environment, particularly through initiatives like the Department of Student Research and Projects (DSRP).

These initiatives are designed to provide students with hands-on experience in developing practical solutions, preparing them for the challenges of technology-driven industries. Nikhilan’s achievement at WorldSkills is a testament to the effectiveness of such educational strategies in shaping future leaders in aerospace engineering and related fields.

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