AI Skills Surge
New Delhi
Senior professionals in India’s Global Capability Centres (GCCs) are now earning between Rs 58–60 lakh per annum, driven by demand for Artificial Intelligence (AI) skills, according to a TeamLease Digital report released Thursday. Roles in Generative AI Engineering and Machine Learning Operations (MLOps) are setting new benchmarks, with annual growth of over 18 percent.
The report highlighted that GCCs are shifting to AI-native models, where large language model (LLM) integration, autonomous decision-making, and IP-led innovation are becoming standard. Demand is rising for niche skills such as Prompt Engineering, LLM Safety, AI Orchestration, Agent Design, Simulation Governance, and AI Compliance, especially in banking, healthcare, and manufacturing.
Cybersecurity and Data Engineering remain critical, with salaries projected to grow to Rs 33.5 lakh and Rs 27 lakh per annum, respectively, by FY27. At the senior level, cybersecurity experts can earn up to Rs 55 lakh, while experienced data engineers can reach Rs 42 lakh. Cloud roles are also on the rise, with architects commanding salaries up to Rs 45 lakh.
Beyond GCCs, the IT products and services sector is witnessing similar trends. Product Management is the fastest-growing skillset, with senior roles expected to reach Rs 42 lakh by FY27, marking a 29 percent increase. Cloud roles in IT could grow by 19 percent, with salaries projected to touch Rs 37.5 lakh.
India’s AI market, projected at $28.8 billion by 2025, is reshaping jobs. Up to 40 percent of global roles may be impacted, with GCCs expected to generate 1.2 million of 4.7 million new tech jobs by 2027. Hiring is also expanding to Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, with 130,000–140,000 fresh graduates expected in FY25.
