AI/ML jobs may pay up to ₹80 lakh per annum in 2026: Report
The field of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) has been rapidly growing in recent years, with India emerging as a hub for these technologies. According to a recent analysis by Testleaf, India is expected to host more than a million AI and ML roles by 2026. This growth is not only limited to the number of jobs but also extends to the salaries offered to professionals in these fields. The report suggests that senior AI engineers working remotely for US firms can earn salary equivalents of ₹60-₹80 lakh per annum (LPA), making them among the highest-paid professionals in the country.
The average annual salary growth for AI and ML professionals is expected to be around 15-20%, which is significantly higher than the national average. This growth is driven by the increasing demand for AI and ML talent across various industries, including healthcare, finance, and technology. As companies continue to invest in these technologies, the demand for skilled professionals is expected to rise, leading to higher salaries and better benefits.
For freshers, the starting packages for AI and ML roles are also quite attractive, ranging from ₹5-₹9 LPA. This is significantly higher than the starting salaries for other engineering and technical roles, making AI and ML a lucrative career option for young professionals. Moreover, with the rise of remote work, many companies are now open to hiring talent from across the country, providing opportunities for professionals to work with top-tier companies without being limited by geographical location.
The report also highlights the growing trend of remote work in the AI and ML industry. With many US firms setting up operations in India or hiring remote talent, Indian professionals can now work with global companies and earn salaries equivalent to their international counterparts. This has not only opened up new opportunities for Indian professionals but also helped to bridge the salary gap between India and other countries.
The growth of the AI and ML industry in India can be attributed to the government’s initiatives to promote these technologies. The government has launched several programs to promote AI and ML, including the National AI Strategy, which aims to make India a global leader in AI. Additionally, the government has also set up several institutions and research centers to promote research and development in AI and ML.
The private sector has also played a significant role in promoting AI and ML in India. Many top-tier companies, including Google, Microsoft, and Amazon, have set up AI and ML research centers in India, providing opportunities for professionals to work on cutting-edge projects. Moreover, many Indian startups have also emerged in the AI and ML space, providing innovative solutions to real-world problems.
In conclusion, the AI and ML industry in India is expected to witness significant growth in the coming years, with salaries ranging from ₹5-₹80 LPA. With the government’s initiatives and the private sector’s investments, India is poised to become a global hub for AI and ML. As the demand for AI and ML talent continues to rise, professionals with skills in these areas can expect lucrative career opportunities and higher salaries.
The future of work is changing, and AI and ML are at the forefront of this change. As companies continue to adopt these technologies, the demand for skilled professionals will only increase. Whether you are a fresher or an experienced professional, the AI and ML industry offers a wide range of career opportunities, from data science and engineering to research and development.
As we move forward into 2026, it will be exciting to see how the AI and ML industry evolves in India. With the government’s support and the private sector’s investments, India is likely to emerge as a global leader in AI and ML. For professionals looking to make a career in these fields, now is the time to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to take advantage of the lucrative opportunities available.
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