Sri Vijaya Puram, Jan. 20: The IndiaSkills – Andaman & Nicobar Islands 2025, the Union Territory–level Skill Competition, was inaugurated today at the Industrial Training Institute (ITI), Dollygunj. The competition which began today will continue upto 22nd January, 2026, transforming ITI Dollygunj into a centre of skill excellence, innovation, and public outreach during the event period.
The inaugural programme was graced by Dr. Sachin Shinde, Commissioner-cum-Secretary (Labour, Employment & Training) as the chief guest along with other dignitaries. The programme formally marked the commencement of the UT-level IndiaSkills competition.
In his address, the chief guest, underscored the importance of skill-based education in driving economic growth, employment generation, and the development of an industry-ready workforce. He emphasized the need for trainees to develop an entrepreneurial mindset and highlighted the significant demand for skilled human resources in the Islands’ potential sectors such as marine, tourism, and hospitality. He encouraged participants to demonstrate technical competence, innovation, and professional discipline, and thereafter formally declared IndiaSkills – Andaman & Nicobar Islands 2025 open. He further urged all skill competitors to work hard with sincere effort and strive to excel at the IndiaSkills Regional, National, and WorldSkills competitions, thereby bringing pride to the Islands.
Earlier, delivering the welcome address, Shri Venketesh Ch., Principal / Deputy Apprenticeship Advisor, ITI, highlighted the objectives of the IndiaSkills and WorldSkills competitions, emphasizing their role in promoting vocational excellence, global skill benchmarks, and enhanced employability among the youth of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. He also highlighted the IndiaSkills competition remarkable journey of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands since 2018.
The inaugural programme concluded with the vote of thanks by Shri K. Srinivasa, Labour Commissioner & Director of Employment & Training (DET), who appreciated the efforts of all stakeholders, organizers, trainers, and participants involved in the successful conduct of the event.
The skill competitions commenced thereafter, covering approximately 30 skill trades, with around 82 competitors participating across diverse sectors, showcasing excellence in vocational education, technical training, and industry-relevant competencies. Meritorious participants from the competition may represent the UT of Andaman & Nicobar Islands at regional and national IndiaSkills competitions, with a potential pathway leading to WorldSkills.
As part of its outreach initiative, ITI Dollygunj is open to school students, parents, teachers, ITI alumni, and the general public throughout the event period. Visitors can witness live demonstrations of vocational skills, interact with skilled professionals, trainers, trainees, assessors, and competitors, and gain insight into the scope and future prospects of Vocational Education and Training (VET).
The event also features Try-a-Skill / Do-It-Yourself (DIY) activities for students, exposure to various ITI trades, modern training facilities, and information on employability opportunities. Early exposure to such initiatives supports career awareness, informed career choices, appreciation of the dignity of labour, and encouragement of practical, hands-on learning.
The competition is expected to witness significant footfall, serving as an effective platform for mass awareness and outreach on the skill development initiatives of the A&N Administration. It will help highlight skill excellence, promote vocational education, motivate youth towards skilled career pathways, and showcase the Government’s commitment to skill development and employment generation.
All aspiring youth, students, faculty members, parents, and ITI alumni have been invited to visit ITI Dollygunj on Jan. 21 & 22 and witness IndiaSkills – Andaman & Nicobar Islands.