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 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 AI/ML 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 analysis also predicts that the average annual salary growth for AI/ML roles will be around 15-20% by 2026. This is significantly higher than the average salary growth in other industries, making AI/ML a lucrative career option for aspiring professionals. Freshers can also expect attractive packages, ranging from ₹5-₹9 lakh per annum for AI/ML roles.
The increasing demand for AI/ML professionals can be attributed to the growing adoption of these technologies across various industries. Companies are leveraging AI and ML to automate processes, improve efficiency, and gain a competitive edge. As a result, the need for skilled professionals who can develop, implement, and maintain AI/ML systems is on the rise.
Senior AI engineers, in particular, are in high demand, especially those with expertise in areas like natural language processing, computer vision, and predictive analytics. These professionals can expect to earn salaries equivalent to ₹60-₹80 lakh per annum, making them among the highest-paid professionals in the industry.
The trend of remote work has also opened up new opportunities for AI/ML professionals in India. Many US-based firms are hiring Indian professionals to work on AI/ML projects, offering them salaries that are equivalent to those paid to their US-based counterparts. This has created a new wave of opportunities for Indian professionals, who can now work with top-tier companies without having to relocate to the US.
The growth of the AI/ML industry in India is also expected to drive innovation and entrepreneurship. With the increasing availability of funding and resources, startups and small businesses are now able to develop and deploy AI/ML solutions, creating new opportunities for professionals and driving economic growth.
To capitalize on this trend, educational institutions and training providers are offering a range of courses and programs in AI/ML. These programs are designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the industry, including programming languages like Python and R, data science, and ML algorithms.
However, the demand for AI/ML professionals also poses a challenge for the industry. With the rapid evolution of technologies, professionals need to continuously update their skills to remain relevant. This requires a significant investment of time and resources, and can be a barrier for those who are new to the industry.
Despite these challenges, the future of AI/ML in India looks bright. With the government’s support for the industry, and the growing demand for AI/ML professionals, India is poised to become a global hub for AI/ML innovation. As the industry continues to evolve, we can expect to see new opportunities emerge for professionals, entrepreneurs, and businesses, driving growth and innovation in the years to come.
In conclusion, the AI/ML industry in India is expected to experience significant growth in the coming years, driven by the increasing demand for skilled professionals. With salaries ranging from ₹5-₹80 lakh per annum, AI/ML roles are becoming increasingly attractive to aspiring professionals. As the industry continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see new opportunities emerge for professionals, entrepreneurs, and businesses, driving innovation and economic growth in the years to come.
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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