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 gaining significant traction in recent years, with numerous organizations across the globe investing heavily in these technologies. As a result, the demand for skilled professionals in AI and ML has increased exponentially, leading to a surge in job opportunities and attractive salary packages. According to a recent analysis by Testleaf, India is expected to host more than a million AI and ML roles by 2026, with average annual salary growth anticipated at 15-20%.
The report highlights the vast potential of the AI and ML job market in India, with senior AI engineers working remotely for US firms potentially earning salary equivalents of ₹60-₹80 lakh per annum (LPA). This is a significant jump from the current salary ranges, and it underscores the growing demand for skilled professionals in the field. Moreover, freshers can also expect attractive packages, ranging from ₹5-₹9 LPA for AI/ML roles, making it an exciting time for students and young professionals looking to enter the industry.
The growth of the AI and ML job market in India can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the country has a large pool of skilled engineers and professionals, making it an attractive destination for companies looking to set up their AI and ML operations. Secondly, the Indian government has been actively promoting the adoption of AI and ML technologies, with initiatives such as the National AI Strategy and the establishment of AI research institutes. Finally, the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of digital technologies, including AI and ML, as companies look to automate processes and improve efficiency.
The report also highlights the growing trend of remote work in the AI and ML industry, with many companies allowing their employees to work from anywhere. This has opened up new opportunities for professionals in India, who can now work with top-tier companies in the US and other countries, earning competitive salaries and benefits. Senior AI engineers, in particular, can expect to earn high salary packages, ranging from ₹60-₹80 LPA, depending on their experience and skills.
For freshers, the AI and ML job market in India offers a wide range of opportunities, with packages ranging from ₹5-₹9 LPA. This is an attractive proposition, considering the fact that many other industries offer much lower starting salaries. Moreover, the AI and ML industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies and techniques emerging every day. This means that professionals in the field need to be constantly learning and upskilling, making it an exciting and challenging career path.
In terms of the skills required for AI and ML roles, the report highlights the need for professionals with expertise in areas such as deep learning, natural language processing, and computer vision. Additionally, professionals with experience in programming languages such as Python, R, and Java are in high demand, as are those with knowledge of cloud computing platforms such as AWS and Azure.
The growth of the AI and ML job market in India is expected to have a significant impact on the country’s economy, with the industry anticipated to contribute significantly to GDP growth. Moreover, the creation of new job opportunities in the field will help to address the issue of unemployment, which is a major challenge facing the country.
In conclusion, the AI and ML job market in India is expected to experience significant growth in the coming years, with attractive salary packages and a wide range of job opportunities. Senior AI engineers can expect to earn high salary packages, while freshers can look forward to exciting career paths with competitive starting salaries. As the industry continues to evolve, it is essential for professionals to stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and techniques, and for companies to invest in training and development programs to ensure that their employees have the necessary skills to succeed.
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