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 expected to play a significant role in this revolution. According to a recent analysis by Testleaf, India will host more than a million AI and ML roles by 2026, with an average annual salary growth of 15-20%. This is exciting news for professionals and students looking to pursue a career in AI and ML, as it indicates a high demand for skilled workers in this field.
The report highlights that senior AI engineers, working remotely for US firms, can earn salary equivalents of ₹60-₹80 lakh per annum (LPA). This is a significant jump from the current average salaries for AI and ML professionals in India, and it underscores the growing importance of these skills in the global job market. Moreover, freshers can also expect attractive packages of ₹5-₹9 LPA for AI/ML roles, making it an attractive career option for young graduates.
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 for professionals with expertise in these areas.
The report also notes that the demand for AI and ML skills is not limited to the tech industry alone. Other sectors, such as healthcare, finance, and education, are also adopting AI and ML technologies to improve their operations and services. This means that professionals with AI and ML skills can explore career opportunities across various industries, making it a highly versatile and in-demand skillset.
To capitalize on this trend, many educational institutions in India are now offering courses and programs in AI and ML. These programs aim to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue a career in AI and ML, including programming languages such as Python, R, and Java, as well as expertise in machine learning algorithms, deep learning, and natural language processing.
Furthermore, the Indian government has also launched several initiatives to promote the development of AI and ML in the country. For example, the National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence, launched in 2018, aims to make India a global leader in AI research and development. The government has also established several research institutions and centers of excellence in AI and ML, providing funding and support for research and development in these areas.
In addition to the lucrative salary packages, a career in AI and ML also offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge technologies and solve complex problems. AI and ML professionals can work on a wide range of applications, from chatbots and virtual assistants to image recognition and predictive analytics. They can also contribute to the development of new products and services that have the potential to transform industries and improve people’s lives.
However, to succeed in this field, professionals need to stay up-to-date with the latest developments and advancements in AI and ML. They must also be willing to continuously learn and adapt to new technologies and tools, as the field is constantly evolving. Moreover, they must be able to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams, including data scientists, software engineers, and domain experts, to develop and deploy AI and ML solutions.
In conclusion, the report by Testleaf highlights the exciting career opportunities available in AI and ML in India. With the average annual salary growth expected to be 15-20% and senior AI engineers earning up to ₹80 lakh per annum, it is an attractive career option for professionals and students looking to pursue a career in this field. As the demand for AI and ML skills continues to grow, it is essential for educational institutions, governments, and industries to work together to develop the necessary skills and infrastructure to support the growth of this sector.
About the Author
