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, and India is expected to be at the forefront of this revolution. According to a recent analysis by Testleaf, India will host more than a million AI and ML roles by 2026, with the average annual salary growth expected to be around 15-20%. This is a significant increase, and it’s no surprise that AI/ML jobs are becoming some of the most sought-after careers in the country.
One of the most exciting aspects of this report is the potential salary range for AI/ML professionals. Senior AI engineers, who are working remotely for US firms, can earn salary equivalents of ₹60-₹80 lakh per annum (LPA). This is a staggering amount, and it’s clear that companies are willing to pay top dollar for the best talent in the industry. Even freshers can expect a decent package, with salaries ranging from ₹5-₹9 LPA for AI/ML roles.
The demand for AI/ML professionals is driven by the increasing adoption of these technologies across various industries. From healthcare and finance to e-commerce and transportation, AI and ML are being used to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance customer experience. As a result, companies are looking for skilled professionals who can develop and implement AI/ML solutions that can drive business growth and innovation.
The report also highlights the growing trend of remote work in the AI/ML industry. With the advancement of technology, it’s now possible for professionals to work remotely and collaborate with teams across the globe. This has opened up new opportunities for Indian professionals to work with international companies and earn competitive salaries.
The salary range for AI/ML professionals varies based on factors such as location, experience, and industry. However, some of the top-paying AI/ML jobs in India include:
- AI Engineer: ₹15-₹30 LPA
- ML Engineer: ₹12-₹25 LPA
- Data Scientist: ₹10-₹20 LPA
- Business Intelligence Developer: ₹8-₹15 LPA
To be eligible for these roles, professionals need to have a strong foundation in programming languages such as Python, R, or Java. They should also have experience with AI/ML frameworks and tools such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, or Scikit-learn. Additionally, professionals should have a strong understanding of data structures, algorithms, and software design patterns.
The report also emphasizes the importance of upskilling and reskilling in the AI/ML industry. As the technology is evolving rapidly, professionals need to stay updated with the latest trends and developments to remain relevant. This can be done through online courses, certifications, and training programs that focus on AI/ML and related technologies.
In conclusion, the AI/ML industry is expected to experience significant growth in the coming years, with India hosting more than a million AI and ML roles by 2026. The salary range for AI/ML professionals is expected to be highly competitive, with senior AI engineers earning up to ₹80 LPA. Freshers can also expect decent packages, with salaries ranging from ₹5-₹9 LPA. As the demand for AI/ML professionals continues to grow, it’s essential for professionals to upskill and reskill to remain relevant in the 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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