Brief
India GenAI talent gap 53‑60% reported
A TeamLease Digital study finds demand for GenAI and cloud experts outstripping supply, with salaries rising sharply for experienced roles.
By Felo News Desk · Published
TeamLease Digital’s Digital Skills & Salary Primer FY2026–27 says India’s tech sector is confronting a 53‑60% talent gap in Generative AI (GenAI) and Cloud, while just 16% of IT professionals possess AI skills.
What happened
The report, based on an analysis of 37,000 technology and digital roles across global capability centers, technology firms and core industries, identified the widest supply gap in Cloud (55‑60%) followed by GenAI (about 53%). Demand for GenAI talent is projected to exceed 1 million roles by 2026. Cybersecurity gaps sit at 25‑30%, though narrowing.
What the reports add
TeamLease Digital highlighted that roughly 20 lakh professionals have been upskilled, yet only about 3 lakh have advanced AI skills. Salary premiums are expanding, with a GenAI developer earning Rs 11.2 LPA at 0‑2 years and Rs 34.5 LPA at 6‑8 years, while a Machine‑Learning Platform Architect can command Rs 94.8 LPA after 15 years.
What was said
Neeti Sharma, CEO of TeamLease Digital, told newindianexpress.com, "AI is changing what it means to be capable. Using AI tools is now the baseline; what the market rewards is the ability to build, run and govern AI in production."
How it came about
The findings follow a series of Felo News pieces on India’s tech ecosystem, including coverage of cross‑border collaborations and talent mobility, underscoring the growing pressure on Indian firms to fill advanced digital roles.
Key facts
- India faces a 53‑60% talent gap in GenAI and Cloud roles. (newindianexpress.com)
- Only 16% of Indian IT professionals have AI skills. (newindianexpress.com)
- Demand for GenAI talent is expected to exceed 1 million roles by 2026. (newindianexpress.com)
- A GenAI developer earns Rs 11.2 LPA (0‑2 years) and Rs 34.5 LPA (6‑8 years). (newindianexpress.com)
- Cybersecurity talent gap stands at 25‑30%, narrowing over time. (newindianexpress.com)
Sources
- [1] newindianexpress.com — originally reported as “India faces 53–60% talent gap in GenAI and Cloud: TeamLease Digital”
