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 it’s expected to continue this trend in the coming years. According to a recent analysis by Testleaf, India is expected to host more than a million AI and ML roles by 2026. This growth is not just limited to the number of jobs, but also the salary packages that come with them. The report states that senior AI engineers, working remotely for US firms, can earn salary equivalents of ₹60-₹80 lakh per annum (LPA). Even freshers can expect a decent package of ₹5-₹9 LPA for AI/ML roles.
The average annual salary growth in the AI/ML sector is expected to be around 15-20%. This is significantly higher than the average salary growth in other industries. The demand for skilled professionals in AI and ML is on the rise, and companies are willing to pay top dollar to attract and retain the best talent. The report also highlights that the AI/ML job market is expected to be highly competitive, with top-tier companies offering lucrative salary packages to attract the best candidates.
The growth of the AI/ML sector in India can be attributed to the increasing adoption of these technologies by companies across various industries. From healthcare to finance, and from e-commerce to manufacturing, AI and ML are being used to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance customer experience. The Indian government has also been actively promoting the development of AI and ML in the country, with initiatives such as the National AI Strategy and the AI for All program.
The report by Testleaf highlights the opportunities available to professionals in the AI/ML sector. With the average salary packages ranging from ₹5-₹80 LPA, it’s clear that this field offers a lucrative career path for those who are skilled and passionate about AI and ML. The fact that senior AI engineers can earn salary equivalents of ₹60-₹80 LPA while working remotely for US firms is a testament to the global demand for skilled AI/ML professionals.
However, it’s worth noting that the AI/ML job market is not without its challenges. The field is highly competitive, and companies are looking for professionals with specialized skills and expertise. The report highlights that professionals with skills in areas such as deep learning, natural language processing, and computer vision are in high demand. Additionally, the field is constantly evolving, with new technologies and techniques emerging all the time. Professionals in the AI/ML sector need to be committed to ongoing learning and professional development to stay ahead of the curve.
For freshers, the AI/ML sector offers a range of opportunities. With salary packages ranging from ₹5-₹9 LPA, it’s an attractive career path for those who are just starting out. However, it’s worth noting that the competition for entry-level positions can be fierce, and candidates need to have a strong foundation in areas such as programming, mathematics, and statistics. The report highlights that companies are looking for professionals with a strong academic background, as well as practical experience and skills in AI and ML.
In conclusion, the AI/ML sector is expected to continue its rapid growth in the coming years, with India hosting more than a million AI and ML roles by 2026. The salary packages for these roles are lucrative, with senior AI engineers earning up to ₹80 LPA and freshers earning up to ₹9 LPA. The field is highly competitive, and companies are looking for professionals with specialized skills and expertise. However, for those who are passionate about AI and ML, and are willing to put in the time and effort to develop their skills, the rewards can be significant.
As the demand for AI and ML continues to grow, it’s likely that we’ll see even more innovative applications of these technologies in the future. From autonomous vehicles to personalized healthcare, the potential uses of AI and ML are vast and exciting. For professionals in the AI/ML sector, the future looks bright, with a range of opportunities available to those who are skilled, passionate, and committed to ongoing learning and development.
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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