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 exponential growth is not only limited to the number of jobs but also extends to the salaries offered to professionals in these fields. The average annual salary growth for AI and ML roles is expected to be around 15-20%, with senior AI engineers working remotely for US firms potentially earning salaries equivalent to ₹60-₹80 lakh per annum (LPA).
The report highlights the increasing demand for AI and ML professionals in India, driven by the growing adoption of these technologies across various industries. As companies continue to invest in AI and ML, the need for skilled professionals who can develop, implement, and manage these systems is on the rise. This has led to a surge in job opportunities for individuals with expertise in AI and ML, with salaries that are significantly higher than those offered in other fields.
For freshers, the starting packages for AI and ML roles are also quite attractive, ranging from ₹5-₹9 LPA. This is significantly higher than the starting salaries offered in other industries, making AI and ML a lucrative career option for young professionals. Moreover, with the average annual salary growth expected to be around 15-20%, these professionals can expect their salaries to increase substantially over the next few years.
The high salaries offered to AI and ML professionals are not limited to those working in India. Senior AI engineers who work remotely for US firms can earn salaries equivalent to ₹60-₹80 LPA. This is due to the high demand for AI and ML expertise in the US, where companies are willing to pay top dollar for skilled professionals who can help them develop and implement AI and ML systems. The fact that these professionals can work remotely has also opened up new opportunities for Indians who want to work with US companies without having to relocate.
The growth of AI and ML in India is expected to be driven by various factors, including the increasing adoption of these technologies in industries such as healthcare, finance, and retail. The government’s initiatives to promote the development of AI and ML, such as the establishment of the National Artificial Intelligence Mission, are also expected to play a key role in driving growth in this sector.
The report by Testleaf highlights the vast opportunities available in the AI and ML sector in India. With over a million jobs expected to be created in this sector by 2026, it is clear that AI and ML are going to be key drivers of growth in the Indian job market. The high salaries offered to professionals in these fields, particularly senior AI engineers working remotely for US firms, are a testament to the growing demand for AI and ML expertise.
As the demand for AI and ML professionals continues to grow, it is essential for individuals who want to pursue a career in these fields to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge. This includes proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R, and Java, as well as experience with AI and ML frameworks such as TensorFlow and PyTorch. Individuals who have a strong foundation in mathematics and statistics, as well as experience with data analysis and machine learning algorithms, are also likely to be in high demand.
In conclusion, the AI and ML sector in India is expected to experience rapid growth in the next few years, driven by the increasing adoption of these technologies across various industries. The high salaries offered to professionals in these fields, particularly senior AI engineers working remotely for US firms, make AI and ML a lucrative career option for individuals who have the necessary skills and knowledge. As the demand for AI and ML professionals continues to grow, it is essential for individuals who want to pursue a career in these fields to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to stay ahead of the curve.
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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