Professionals skilled in data analytics, generative AI and machine learning are the most sought after by companies across sectors in India, reports The Economic Times, citing research from Michael Page India. The IT sector is seeing demand in areas such as technology, data, AI/ML (machine learning), product and security along with digital transformation and Internet of Things (IoT), and generative AI. The research showed junior employees are getting 35%-45% salary hikes while switching jobs, with mid-level and senior management getting 30%-40% and 20%-30% hikes, respectively.

Ankit Agarwala, managing director at PageGroup. “The IT services industry, a cornerstone of the Indian economy, is witnessing a phase of recalibration. Companies are moderating their approach to salary increments, with expected hikes around 8%-10%. Industries like consumer, renewables, finance, and healthcare are flourishing, bolstered by investments from local and domestic companies, he added.

Agarwala, however, pointed out that there has been a rationalisation in salary hikes which had reached high levels a couple of years ago, and now only those having specialised skill sets can expect high hikes when switching jobs. Meanwhile, the research also showed a resurgence in hiring within traditional industries, particularly evident in the continued high demand for manufacturing and operation roles. India’s real estate sector, too, is experiencing a major upturn.