Khandwa’s Kovid Ajay Gangrade has brought international recognition to his hometown after winning a Silver Medal for India at the 48th WorldSkills Competition in Shanghai. The NIFT Mumbai student secured second place in Digital Interactive Media Design with 720 points, behind China’s Kaiwen Liu, who scored 739.
Following the achievement, Gangrade has been called to Delhi for a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 7 and 8, along with other members of Team India. The development comes as India recorded a strong WorldSkills performance, finishing 10th overall with six Silver Medals and 20 Medals for Excellence.
From Khandwa To Shanghai
Gangrade’s achievement has particular significance for Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh, where he has roots. He is currently pursuing his studies at the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Mumbai. His journey from his hometown to an international skills championship has made the silver medal a source of pride for his family and native district.
The achievement also places attention on the opportunities available to young people pursuing design and technology-related fields. Gangrade competed against participants from across the world in a discipline that requires both creative and technical abilities.
Kovid Ajay Gangrade from Maharashtra wins the Silver Medal in Digital Interactive Media Design at Worldskills Shanghai 2026.
— Skill India (@MSDESkillIndia) October 1, 2026
A distinction earned at the highest level of skills competition, a moment of immense pride for Team India and a remarkable chapter in India’s skills… pic.twitter.com/qWZ3KfOU6M
Digital Skills Shine
The 48th WorldSkills Competition was held in Shanghai, China, from September 23 to 26, bringing together young competitors from countries and regions around the world. India fielded its largest-ever contingent, with 70 competitors participating across 63 skills.
Gangrade competed in Digital Interactive Media Design, a skill that combines creativity, design and technology. The discipline includes areas such as graphics, animation, video, sound, digital interfaces and interactive experiences.
Gangrade scored 720 points to secure silver. China’s Kaiwen Liu won gold with 739 points, while Romania’s Bogdan Nimerenco took bronze with 707 points.
India’s Strong Showing
Gangrade’s medal was part of India’s wider performance at Shanghai 2026. The country finished 10th overall, improving on its previous position, and secured six Silver Medals and 20 Medals for Excellence.
India’s participation also reflected the changing nature of the global skills landscape, with competitors taking part across technical, industrial, digital, creative and service-oriented disciplines. Digital Interactive Media Design was among the newer and emerging areas represented by India at the competition.
Six Silvers. Six outstanding performances. One unforgettable WorldSkills for Team India.
— Office of Ch Jayant Singh (@Office_ChJayant) September 28, 2026
From skill and precision to creativity and innovation, India’s six Silver medallists delivered when it mattered at #WorldSkillsShanghai2026.
Mohammed Salam. Saniya Joshi. Smriti Nambiar.… pic.twitter.com/xiYGHJV77P
The result highlights how skills related to digital design and creative technology are increasingly being evaluated alongside more established technical and vocational disciplines at international competitions.
PM Meet In Delhi
The latest development in Gangrade’s journey is his upcoming visit to Delhi. According to the information provided, Gangrade and other Team India WorldSkills winners have been called for meetings with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 7 and 8.
The meeting follows the team’s return from Shanghai and comes as the medal-winning competitors receive recognition for their performance on the international stage. The recognition is also expected to encourage more young people to participate in future WorldSkills competitions.
For Gangrade, the upcoming Delhi visit marks another significant moment after his silver-medal finish. His achievement has connected his roots in Khandwa with a global competition and highlighted the potential of digital and creative skills.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Kovid Ajay Gangrade’s achievement demonstrates how creativity, technology and vocational skills can create opportunities for young Indians on the global stage. His success also underlines the importance of giving students access to quality training, mentorship and international exposure, regardless of where they come from.
As Gangrade prepares to meet the Prime Minister, how can India create more opportunities for young people to turn their skills and creativity into global success?
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