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 play a significant role in this growth. According to a recent analysis by Testleaf, India will host more than a million AI and ML roles by 2026. This is a significant increase from the current numbers, and it is expected to have a major impact on the job market.
One of the most exciting aspects of this growth is the expected salary range for AI/ML professionals. The report states that senior AI engineers, working remotely for US firms, can earn salary equivalents of ₹60-₹80 lakh per annum (LPA). This is a significant amount, and it highlights the high demand for skilled AI/ML professionals in the industry.
But it’s not just experienced professionals who can expect high salaries. Freshers can also expect a significant package for AI/ML roles. According to the report, freshers can expect a package of ₹5-₹9 LPA for AI/ML roles. This is a great opportunity for students and young professionals who are looking to start their careers in the field of AI/ML.
The average annual salary growth for AI/ML professionals is expected to be around 15-20%. This is significantly higher than the average salary growth in other industries, and it highlights the high demand for skilled AI/ML professionals. The report also states that the salary range for AI/ML professionals will vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and industry.
The growth of AI/ML in India is expected to be driven by several factors, including the increasing adoption of digital technologies, the growing demand for automation and analytics, and the availability of a large pool of skilled professionals. The Indian government has also been actively promoting the development of AI/ML in the country, with several initiatives and programs aimed at encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship in the field.
The report by Testleaf highlights the opportunities and challenges facing the AI/ML industry in India. On the one hand, the growth of AI/ML is expected to create new job opportunities and drive economic growth. On the other hand, there are concerns about the impact of automation on employment, and the need for workers to acquire new skills to remain relevant in the job market.
To take advantage of the opportunities in the AI/ML industry, it’s essential for professionals to acquire the right skills and training. This includes skills such as programming languages like Python, R, and Java, as well as knowledge of ML algorithms and techniques. Professionals should also have a strong understanding of data structures, statistics, and software engineering.
In addition to technical skills, professionals should also have soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. These skills are essential for working in a team environment and for communicating complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
The report by Testleaf is a wake-up call for professionals and students who are looking to pursue a career in AI/ML. With the right skills and training, it’s possible to land a high-paying job in the industry and be part of the exciting growth and innovation that is happening in the field.
In conclusion, the AI/ML industry is expected to experience significant growth in India in the coming years, with more than a million roles expected to be created by 2026. The salary range for AI/ML professionals is expected to be high, with senior AI engineers earning up to ₹80 LPA and freshers earning up to ₹9 LPA. To take advantage of these opportunities, professionals should acquire the right skills and training, including technical skills such as programming languages and ML algorithms, as well as soft skills such as communication and teamwork.
News Source: https://www.ndtvprofit.com/amp/technology/2026-ai-wave-top-tier-ml-jobs-may-fetch-up-to-rs-80-lpa-salaries
About the Author
