AI/ML jobs may pay up to ₹80 lakh per annum in 2026: Report
The world of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) is rapidly evolving, and India is poised to become a hub for these emerging technologies. According to a recent analysis by Testleaf, the country is expected to host more than a million AI and ML roles by 2026. This surge in demand for skilled professionals is likely to drive up salaries, with senior AI engineers working remotely for US firms potentially earning up to ₹80 lakh per annum.
The report highlights the growing importance of AI and ML in the Indian job market, with the average annual salary growth expected to be around 15-20%. This is significantly higher than the average salary growth in other industries, making AI and ML roles highly attractive to job seekers. Moreover, the fact that many of these roles can be performed remotely has opened up new opportunities for professionals to work with top-tier companies in the US and other countries.
For freshers, the prospects are equally promising. According to the report, entry-level AI and ML roles can command salaries ranging from ₹5 lakh to ₹9 lakh per annum. This is a significant increase from the average starting salaries in other industries, and it reflects the high demand for skilled professionals in these fields.
The growth of AI and ML in India is driven by several factors, including the increasing adoption of digital technologies, the availability of large datasets, and the presence of a skilled workforce. Many Indian companies, including startups and established players, are investing heavily in AI and ML research and development, creating new job opportunities in the process.
The report also highlights the importance of skills such as data science, natural language processing, and computer vision in the AI and ML job market. Professionals with expertise in these areas are likely to be in high demand, and they can expect to command higher salaries than those without these skills.
For those looking to transition into AI and ML roles, there are several ways to acquire the necessary skills. Online courses and certification programs are available in abundance, and many universities and colleges are now offering specialized programs in AI and ML. Additionally, many companies are providing training and upskilling programs for their employees to help them develop the necessary skills.
The prospect of earning up to ₹80 lakh per annum is certainly attractive, but it’s essential to note that these roles require a high level of expertise and experience. Senior AI engineers working remotely for US firms typically have several years of experience and a strong track record of delivering complex projects. However, for those who are willing to put in the effort to acquire the necessary skills and experience, the rewards can be substantial.
In conclusion, the AI and ML job market in India is poised for significant growth in the coming years, with salaries expected to rise by 15-20% annually. With the potential to earn up to ₹80 lakh per annum, these roles are likely to attract top talent from across the country. Whether you’re a fresher or an experienced professional, the AI and ML job market has something to offer, and it’s an exciting time to be a part of this rapidly evolving industry.
As the demand for AI and ML professionals continues to grow, it’s essential for job seekers to be aware of the skills and qualifications required for these roles. By acquiring the necessary skills and experience, professionals can position themselves for success in this exciting and rapidly evolving field.
The future of AI and ML in India looks bright, with many opportunities for growth and development. As the country continues to invest in these emerging technologies, we can expect to see new job opportunities emerge, and salaries continue to rise. Whether you’re interested in working for a startup or an established company, the AI and ML job market has something to offer, and it’s an exciting time to be a part of this industry.
News Source: https://www.ndtvprofit.com/amp/technology/2026-ai-wave-top-tier-ml-jobs-may-fetch-up-to-rs-80-lpa-salaries
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