2. Growth of Generative AI and Automation
Generative AI tools like ChatGPT, copyright, Llama, and custom LLMs are now used in almost every industry. They help in content creation, customer support, coding, automation, and data handling. Because of this, companies need more people who can build, manage, and improve these AI systems. Automation is also increasing because businesses want faster work with fewer errors. This creates new roles like Prompt Engineer, GenAI Developer, RAG Engineer, AI Trainer, and Automation Specialist. As these are new and advanced skills, salaries for these jobs will be higher in 2026.
3. AI Talent Shortage in India
Even though India has many engineers, very few people have real skills in AI, Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Generative AI, and MLOps. Companies are struggling to find skilled professionals. Because skilled people are limited, companies pay higher salaries to attract the right talent. This shortage will continue in 2026 because AI is growing faster than the number of people learning it. This gap directly increases salary packages.
4. Companies Investing Heavily in AI
Indian and global companies are spending huge amounts of money on AI projects, AI research, cloud AI tools, GenAI apps, and new automation systems. Big companies like Google, Microsoft, TCS, Infosys, Wipro, Amazon, and many startups are hiring more AI engineers. Since AI is now a top priority for business growth, companies are ready to pay premium salaries to experienced AI talent. More investment means more hiring and higher salary budgets in 2026.