By Mr Amarr Prabhu for BIS Mumbai

The 36th Work-Skills Competition, conducted by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), was held on September 24 and 25, 2025 at Don Bosco Industrial Training Institute (DBITI), Kurla, the host of the event. A total of 232 employees from leading corporates such as Godrej, Hyundai, Stanley Black & Decker, Mahindra, Schindler, and several others participated in this prestigious competition.

Every year, DBITI is privileged to host this competition across 31 skill categories, including CNC Turning and Milling, Mechatronics, PLC, Electronics, Robotic welding and more. The competition is entirely practical in nature, designed to allow participants to showcase their hands-on expertise. DBITI sets the papers in alignment with India Skills standards, ensuring that the event maintains national-level rigor and quality.

The inauguration began with a welcome address by Mr Amarr Prabhu, Principal of DBITI, followed by the keynote speech of Mr Bobby Kuriakose, HR Director of Forbes Marshall, who was the Chief Guest. He emphasized the importance of skills, the value of talent exhibition, and the need to stay updated with the latest technologies. Mr Pushkar Hate, Head of CII, Maharashtra State, also addressed the gathering, underlining the importance of continuously honing one’s skills. Notably, this year witnessed the highest-ever number of participants from the Western region. The top three competitors from each skill category will qualify for the National Work-Skills Competition to be held in Bangalore.

The closing ceremony on September 25 was graced by Dr Nandkumar K., Founder and Managing Director of Chemtrols Industries Ltd., as Chief Guest. He commended DBITI for providing world-class infrastructure and stressed that such competitions must be conducted in the right spirit, focused on displaying true skills. He also highlighted the growing role of Artificial Intelligence in the lives of technicians and workmen, urging participants to upgrade and adapt themselves to new technologies.

Mr Amarr Prabhu, Principal, DBITI, expressed his joy at the increased participation of women candidates in this year’s competition. He encouraged participants to learn from one another’s experiences and carry forward a spirit of collaboration.

Certificates and medals were awarded to the winners by Dr Nandkumar K. and Ms Vaishali Srivastava, Regional Director, CII Western Region.

The 36th Work-Skills Competition not only celebrated excellence in vocational skills but also reinforced the need for continuous learning in a rapidly changing technological landscape. With record participation and high standards, the event stood as a testimony to the collaborative efforts of CII and Don Bosco ITI in shaping a skilled and future-ready workforce.