National : In a significant achievement for India’s young technical talent, Nikhilan JM, a fourth-year B.Tech Aerospace Engineering student at Lovely Professional University (LPU), has secured 7th rank globally in the Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) category at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026, competing against participants from 69 countries. His finish among the world’s top seven competitors marks a proud milestone for LPU and highlights the growing capabilities of Indian talent in advanced drone technology.
Nikhilan earned his place in the Indian contingent after securing a Gold Medal at the Regional Skills Competition, followed by a Silver Medal at the IndiaSkills Competition 2025–26 in the UAS Technology category. He underwent specialised training from May 15 to June 19, 2026, followed by an intensive preparation programme ahead of the international competition.
At WorldSkills, competitors in the UAS category are assessed on their ability to assemble, configure, calibrate, programme, troubleshoot, repair and operate unmanned aerial systems. The competition tests technical precision, practical expertise and problem-solving skills, making Nikhilan’s 7th-place finish among participants from 69 countries a notable international accomplishment.
Dr Ashok Kumar Mittal, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) and Founder Chancellor of LPU, said, “At LPU, we believe that research, innovation and experiential learning are essential to preparing students for the future. Our focus has always been on creating an academic environment that encourages curiosity, practical application of knowledge and collaboration across disciplines. As LPU marks 25 years of our journey, LPU remains committed to expanding opportunities for students to learn, innovate and contribute to emerging fields of technology.”
As LPU celebrates 25 years of its journey in education, the university continues to integrate academic learning with research, innovation, and hands-on experience. Through its Department of Student Research and Projects (DSRP), students work on industry-oriented research and technology projects under the mentorship of faculty members, researchers, and industry experts. With a focus on areas such as robotics, drone technology, artificial intelligence, automation, embedded systems and advanced manufacturing, the department encourages students to translate their ideas into practical solutions and apply their knowledge to real-world challenges.
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