India’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) sector is on track for significant expansion, with job openings projected to surpass 2.3 million by 2027. However, the available talent pool is expected to reach only 1.2 million, highlighting an urgent need for reskilling and upskilling.
A report by Bain & Company challenges the perception that AI will replace jobs, instead revealing a growing demand for skilled professionals. Since 2019, demand for AI-related expertise has increased by 21% annually, while AI salaries have risen by 11% each year. Despite this, the supply of trained professionals has not kept up, creating a widening talent gap.
Global AI Talent Shortage
The talent shortage is not unique to India. The United States is expected to require 1.3 million AI professionals by 2027 but will have only 645,000 qualified workers. Germany may face a 70% shortfall in AI talent, while the UK and Australia are also struggling with shortages.
Sarah Elk, Americas Head of AI at Bain & Company, emphasized that while AI is driving corporate transformation, businesses cannot transition from ambition to implementation without skilled talent.
India’s Opportunity as a Global AI Talent Hub
Despite the talent gap, experts see India as a potential global AI talent leader. Saikat Banerjee, AI practice leader at Bain & Company India, stated that by 2027, AI job openings could be 1.5 to 2 times higher than the available talent.
To bridge this gap, reskilling and upskilling existing professionals in emerging AI technologies will be crucial. If addressed effectively, India could establish itself as a powerhouse in the global AI job market.
