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 momentum in recent years, and it’s expected to continue growing exponentially in the coming years. According to a recent analysis by Testleaf, India is poised to host more than a million AI and ML roles by 2026. This growth is expected to be accompanied by a significant increase in salaries, with senior AI engineers working remotely for US firms potentially earning up to ₹80 lakh per annum.
The report highlights the growing demand for AI and ML professionals in India, driven by the increasing adoption of these technologies across various industries. The average annual salary growth for AI and ML roles is expected to be around 15-20%, which is significantly higher than the average salary growth in other industries. This is a testament to the high demand for skilled professionals in this field and the willingness of companies to pay a premium for their services.
One of the most interesting aspects of the report is the salary range for senior AI engineers working remotely for US firms. These professionals can potentially earn salaries equivalent to ₹60-₹80 lakh per annum, which is significantly higher than what they would earn if they were working for Indian companies. This is because US companies are willing to pay a premium for skilled AI and ML professionals, and the remote work arrangement allows them to tap into the global talent pool.
However, it’s not just senior professionals who can expect high salaries. Even freshers can expect a decent package for AI and ML roles, with salaries ranging from ₹5-₹9 lakh per annum. This is a significant increase from what freshers would typically earn in other industries, and it highlights the high demand for skilled professionals in this field.
The report also highlights the growth of the AI and ML industry in India, with the country expected to host more than a million AI and ML roles by 2026. This growth is driven by the increasing adoption of AI and ML technologies across various industries, including healthcare, finance, and e-commerce. The Indian government has also been actively promoting the development of AI and ML technologies, with initiatives such as the National AI Strategy and the establishment of the National Institute of Artificial Intelligence.
The growth of the AI and ML industry in India is also expected to create new opportunities for start-ups and entrepreneurs. With the increasing demand for AI and ML solutions, start-ups can develop innovative products and services that cater to this demand. This can create new job opportunities and drive economic growth, as start-ups often create new industries and disrupt existing ones.
However, the growth of the AI and ML industry also poses some challenges. One of the biggest challenges is the lack of skilled professionals in this field. While there is a high demand for AI and ML professionals, there is a shortage of skilled professionals who can fill these roles. This can create a challenge for companies looking to hire AI and ML professionals, and it highlights the need for more training and education programs in this field.
To address this challenge, educational institutions and companies can collaborate to develop training and education programs that cater to the needs of the industry. This can include programs such as certification courses, degree programs, and online courses that teach AI and ML skills. Companies can also invest in employee training and development programs that help their employees develop AI and ML skills.
In conclusion, the report highlights the growing demand for AI and ML professionals in India, driven by the increasing adoption of these technologies across various industries. 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 up to ₹80 lakh per annum. Even freshers can expect a decent package for AI and ML roles, with salaries ranging from ₹5-₹9 lakh per annum. The growth of the AI and ML industry in India is expected to create new opportunities for start-ups and entrepreneurs, but it also poses some challenges, such as the lack of skilled professionals in this field.
Overall, the future of AI and ML in India looks bright, with a high demand for skilled professionals and a growing industry that is expected to drive economic growth. As the industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how companies and educational institutions respond to the challenges and opportunities that it presents.
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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