Top 10 Most Paid Jobs In India to Start a Successful Career in 2024

In an uncertain work environment, finding a legitimate income source is very crucial. However, finding the most paid jobs in India might be difficult in the market because it is a difficult task to find a job that aligns with your interests, skill set, and qualifications and pays you well too. When you enter the job market, you look for the best paying jobs. One of the key factors that one looks for in a job vacancy is salary.

As per the statistics, the salary in the Indian market has increased by 10% in 2023. Sectors that have seen wage growth are high-tech, retail and consumer products.

The employment value is estimated to increase by 569 million in the next 10 years in India which creates good employment opportunities in the coming years.

In this article, we will discuss the most-paid jobs in India in different sectors.

Top 10 Most Paying Jobs In India

Even at the beginner level, these jobs offer a decent salary package. However, the experience can help you earn more.

1) Business Management

Business management experts or business analysts, are the people who comes on top in the list of most paid jobs in India. Companies outside or within India perform campus recruitment for such jobs, where they hire candidates directly from colleges and institutes. It is the most paid job in India that requires a great deal of qualification or experience.

Education Qualification

Becoming a business management expert or a business analyst in India typically involves a combination of education, skills development, and practical experience. 

1. Educational Background: Pursue a bachelor’s degree in a business-related field such as Business Administration, Management, Finance, or Economics. Ensure that the program you choose covers key business concepts and provides a solid foundation in business management.

2. Specialise with a Master’s Degree (Optional): Consider pursuing a Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA) or a related field to gain in-depth knowledge and specialisation. While not mandatory, an MBA can enhance your career prospects, especially for senior roles.

Job Role

• They are responsible for leading and overseeing all operations in their company.
• They implement strategies to ensure productivity while taking control of planning, organising, staffing and leading.

Skills Required

• Good communication skills
• Analytical and quantitative ability
• Detail oriented
• Ability to work in a dynamic environment

Average Salary

• Business Manager salary in India ranges between ₹ 3.0 Lakhs to ₹ 27.1 Lakhs with an average annual salary of ₹ 11.0 Lakhs.

Related Read:  Salary after MBA: Highest-Paying MBA Specialisations in 2024

2) Doctors   

Doctors get employed in the hospitals in their last year of MBBS itself. And they keep working in their post-graduation, and through other courses too. With experience, they work for their clients too, which simultaneously increases their earnings. The emergency cases they take up also help them to earn more. Hence this job is the most paid job in India.

Education Qualification

Becoming a doctor in India typically involves the following steps:

1. Higher Secondary Education: Ensure you have a strong foundation in science subjects (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) during your 11th and 12th grades.

2. Medical Entrance Exams: Take national-level medical entrance exams like NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test), which is a common entrance test for admission to undergraduate medical programs in India.

3. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Medicine (MBBS): Enroll in a recognised medical college for a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) program. This typically takes 5.5 years, including a one-year internship.

4. Internship: After completing the MBBS program, undergo a compulsory rotating internship for one year in a recognised hospital.

5. Register with the Medical Council of India (MCI): After successful completion of the internship, you need to register with the MCI or the respective State Medical Council.

6. Prepare for Postgraduate Studies (Optional): If you wish to specialise in a specific field, you can pursue postgraduate studies (MD/MS) after completing your MBBS. Entrance exams for these programs include NEET PG.

7. Obtain a License: Acquire a medical license to practice from the State Medical Council or Medical Council of India.

Job Role

• They are responsible for curing the patients.
• They also diagnose, educate, and document the patient’s medical history.

Skills Required

• Good communication
• Organised
• Empathetic
• Collaborative

Average Salary

• Doctor salary in India ranges between ₹ 0.8 Lakhs to ₹ 18.6 Lakhs with an average annual salary of ₹ 7.9 Lakhs.

3) Cabin Crew

The cabin crew includes the flight attendants who deliver pilots’ instructions or co-pilots. It is one of the most paid jobs in India. They are responsible for taking care of the needs of the passengers. They are required to decently greet the passengers, guide them to their seats and take care of the passengers to ensure a good flight. The cabin crew provide information on the set of actions in case of emergencies.

Education Qualification

1. Educational Background: Most airlines require candidates to have completed their 10+2 (Higher Secondary) education. While there is no specific stream or course requirement, a background in any discipline is generally accepted.

2. Aviation and Hospitality Courses: Some individuals opt to pursue courses related to aviation, travel, or hospitality to gain relevant knowledge and skills. While not mandatory, these courses can be advantageous and may make you stand out in the competitive selection process. There are no mandatory subjects to be taken up in the 10+2, however, internships in hospitality etc can come in handy. This can enhance your communication skills and provide you with a foundation in customer relations, which is crucial for cabin crew roles.

3. Cabin Crew Training Programs: Enroll in a cabin crew training program offered by recognised aviation training institutes. These programs cover essential aspects of the job, including safety protocols, emergency procedures, and customer service.

Job Role

• To carry out the pilot’s instructions.
• Being in charge of the safety and comfort of passengers.

Skills Required

• Communication skills
• Attentiveness
• Decision-making skills

Average Salary

• Cabin Crew salary in India ranges between ₹ 3 Lakhs to ₹ 15 Lakhs with an average annual salary of ₹ 7.5 Lakhs.

4) Chartered Accountant

CA is a well-reputed profession and also one of the most paid jobs in India. The CA certification is offered by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI). A Chartered Accountant is responsible for regulating and controlling all the accounting operations of a company. Chartered Accountants are in high demand in India as well as in foreign countries and are one of the most paid jobs.

Education Qualification

Becoming a Chartered Accountant (CA) in India involves a structured process governed by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI). Here is a step-by-step guide to becoming a Chartered Accountant in India:

1. Educational Background: The first step to becoming a CA is to earn a bachelor’s degree in commerce, accounting, or a related field. The University Grants Commission (UGC) or the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) should recognise the degree.

2. Register for the CA Course: Enroll for the CA Course with the ICAI. The CA course is divided into three levels:

• CA Foundation
• CA Intermediate
• CA Final

3. Complete Articleship Training: Undergo three years of articleship training with a practising chartered accountant. This practical training provides hands-on experience in accounting, auditing, and taxation.

4. Appear for the CA Final Exam: The CA Final Course is the last and final stage of the Chartered Accountancy (CA) program administered by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI).

To pass the CA Final Exam, candidates must secure a minimum of 40% marks in each paper and an aggregate of 50% marks in each group.

5. Undergo General Management and Communication Skills Course: Complete the Advanced ICITSS (Advanced Integrated Course on Information Technology and Soft Skills) during the last two years of the Articleship.

6. Enroll as a Member: After successfully passing the CA Final exam and completing the required practical training, enroll as a member of the ICAI.

7. Obtain Membership Certificate: Receive the Membership Certificate from the ICAI, officially recognizing you as a Chartered Accountant.

Job Role

• They manage the financial operations of a business enterprise and keep track of the loopholes in the financial structure of a company.
• They perform several functions, such as preparing books of accounts, capital budgeting, tax planning, budget forecasting, etc.

Skills Required

• Communication skills
• Commercial Awareness
• Ethics
• Analytical skill
• Problem-solving skills
• Interpersonal skills

Average Salary

• CA fresher salary in India ranges between ₹ 1 Lakhs to ₹ 6 Lakhs with an average annual salary of ₹ 2.7 Lakhs.

Related Read: Salary of a Chartered Accountant in India

5) Commercial Pilot

Becoming a professional pilot is not just a job but a dream of many. It requires a very strong-headed person to fly in the sky and is one of the most paid jobs in India as well. The pilot job is one of the most reputed and most paid jobs.

Physics, chemistry, and maths are the compulsory subjects that people aspiring to be a pilots need to have. Mental and physical fitness is also necessary. There are some established rules regarding a specific height and weight of an individual which are mandatory. Many learning institutions provide theoretical as well as practical knowledge about pilot training.

Education Qualification

Becoming a commercial pilot in India involves several steps, including obtaining the necessary education, flight training, and certifications. 

1. Educational Background:  Complete your 10+2 (Higher Secondary) education with Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects. Having a strong foundation in these subjects is crucial for pilot training.

2. Choose a Recognized Flying School: Select a flying school recognised by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in India. Ensure that the school offers a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) program.

3. Class 1 Medical Certificate: Obtain a Class 1 Medical Certificate from a DGCA-approved medical examiner. This certificate ensures that you meet the medical fitness requirements for a commercial pilot.

4. Private Pilot License: Enroll in a Private Pilot License (PPL) course at the flying school. This involves both ground school and flight training. You need to accumulate a specified number of flight hours, including solo and cross-country flights.

5. Ground School Training: Complete ground school training, which covers subjects like air regulations, navigation, meteorology, and aviation safety. Pass the relevant examinations conducted by the DGCA.

6. PPL Examination: After completing the required flight hours and ground school training, appear for the PPL examination conducted by the DGCA.

7. Commercial Pilot License (CPL) Course: Once you have obtained your PPL, enrol in a CPL course at the flying school. The CPL course includes advanced flight training, navigation, and instrument flying.

8. Flight Hours Requirement: Accumulate the required total flight hours, which include both solo and dual flight hours. The specific flight hour requirements may vary, but generally, it is around 200 hours.

9. CPL Examination:  Pass the CPL examination conducted by the DGCA. This exam covers both theoretical and practical aspects of flying.

10. Acquire Additional Ratings (Optional): Obtain an Instrument Rating (IR), which allows you to operate an aircraft using instruments alone. This is a crucial step for a commercial pilot, and a Multi-Engine Rating, allowing you to fly aircraft with multiple engines.

11. Commercial Pilot License (CPL): After completing all the necessary training and meeting the flight hour requirements, you can apply for a Commercial Pilot License from the DGCA.

Job Role

• They are responsible for flying the flights. Also, preparation of flight plans and pre-flight checks like aircraft performance, and fuel checks.

Skills Required

• Coordination
• Communication skills
• Teamwork skills
• Make quick decisions

Average Salary

• Pilot salary in India ranges between ₹ 1.1 Lakhs to ₹ 84 Lakhs with an average annual salary of ₹ 35.4 Lakhs.

6) Aeronautical Engineer

An aeronautical engineer’s main job is designing and implementing aircraft and propulsion systems. They are responsible for studying the aerodynamic performance of aircraft and construction materials. Their job is chiefly concerned with the aircraft. It is the best career-oriented field for people who are interested in the field of aeronautics. The aeronautical engineers are paid very well. That is why it is one of the most paid jobs in India. However, it is also the most challenging field of engineering.

Educational Qualification

Becoming an aeronautical engineer in India involves a systematic educational and training process.

1. Educational Qualification: Complete your 10+2 (Higher Secondary) education with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as compulsory subjects. A strong foundation in these subjects is essential for aeronautical engineering.

2. Entrance Exams: Appear for engineering entrance exams in India, such as JEE Main or other state-level entrance exams. Achieving a competitive score is crucial for securing admission to a reputable engineering college.

3. Pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Aeronautical Engineering: Enroll in a Bachelor’s program in Aeronautical Engineering at a recognised engineering institute or university. The program typically lasts for four years and covers subjects like aerodynamics, propulsion, materials, structures, and avionics.

4. Pursue a Master’s Degree (Optional): While not mandatory, some aeronautical engineers choose to pursue a Master’s degree (M.Tech) in Aeronautical Engineering or a related field for further specialisation and career advancement.

Job Role

• They manage aircraft which includes design and propulsion systems and study the aerodynamic performance of aircraft and construction materials.

Skills Required

• Analytical skills
• Critical-thinking skills
• Problem-solving skills
• Innovation skills

Average Salary

• Aeronautical Engineer salary in India ranges between ₹ 1.2 Lakhs to ₹ 14 Lakhs with an average annual salary of ₹ 10.4 Lakhs.

7) Acting

The term itself is self-explanatory. The acting profession is the most competitive in India. The acting profession is much more than a glamorous profession. It is a dream for many youngsters in the country.

There are several acting schools and institutes where people apply to learn and master acting skills. People dwell in this pool of people because the earning prospectus of this job is quite impressive. Hence being one of the most paid jobs in India, it is crowded with enormous aspirants.

Job Role

• They are responsible for memorising, rehearsing, and acting out their lines in front of a live audience or camera. Rehearse

Skills Required

• Listening comprehension
• Creativity
• Communication
• Memory

Average Salary

• The average salary of an actor in India is ₹ 408,000 per year.

8) Company Secretary

The company secretary is one of the best-salaried jobs in India. In India, there is huge competition among students for CS. The Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) conducts exams for students every year. After qualifying which candidates can become CS.

Educational Qualification

Becoming a Company Secretary in India involves a structured process governed by the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI). Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Educational Background: Complete the 10+2 (Higher Secondary) education in any stream (except Fine Arts). There is no specific stream requirement.

2. Enroll for the Foundation Program: Register with the ICSI for the Foundation Program. The program consists of 3 stages 

• Foundation Programme
• Executive Programme
• Professional Programme 

3. 15-Month Practical Training: Undergo 15 months of practical training after passing the Executive Program. This training can be started after passing either one or both modules of the Executive Program.

4. Membership of ICSI: On successful completion of the Professional Program and management training, apply for Associate Membership of the ICSI.

Qualification

• Candidates who have passed their 10+2 or equivalent examination.

Job Role

• Company secretaries are generally responsible for the effective administration of a company.
• They ensure that the decisions of the boards of directors are properly implemented.
• They make sure that the regulatory and statutory requirements are fulfilled.

Skills Required

• Communication skills
• Decision-making skills
• Time management skills
• Teamwork

Average Salary

• Company Secretary salary in India ranges between ₹ 2.9 Lakhs to ₹ 15.0 Lakhs with an average annual salary of ₹ 8.8 Lakhs.

9) Web Developer

A web developer is the one who is responsible for the maintenance, creation, and development of a website. Web designers and web developers work together closely to provide high-quality, original, and innovative ideas to improve websites and their characteristics. They are required to document and test software for the websites. Machine learning makes designing websites easier by doing repetitive jobs, letting designers utilise their time efficiently.

Educational Qualification

Getting into Computer Science or IT-related fields in India involves a combination of education, skills development, and practical experience.

1. Educational Background: Pursue a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field. Common undergraduate degrees include a B.Tech (Bachelor of Technology) in Computer Science, a B.E. (Bachelor of Engineering) in Information Technology, or a B.Sc. (Bachelor of Science) in Computer Science.

2. Build a Strong Programming Foundation: Learn and master programming languages commonly used in the industry, such as Java, Python, C++, or JavaScript. Practice coding regularly to strengthen your problem-solving skills.

3. Explore Specialisations: Identify specific areas within Computer Science or IT that interest you, such as web development, mobile app development, cybersecurity, data science, artificial intelligence, or cloud computing.

4. Pursue Advanced Degrees: Consider pursuing a Master’s degree in Computer Science or a related field for in-depth knowledge and specialisation. While not mandatory, advanced degrees can open doors to higher-level roles and research opportunities.

5. Certifications: Obtain industry-recognised certifications to enhance your credibility and demonstrate expertise in specific technologies or frameworks. Certifications like CompTIA, Cisco, Microsoft, or AWS can be valuable.

Job Role

• They are responsible for writing codes, developing web pages, and debugging software for sites.

Skills Required

• Computer knowledge
• Numeracy skills
• Creative skills
• Attention to detail
• Logical

Average Salary

• Web Developer salary in India ranges between ₹ 1 Lakhs to ₹ 7.7 Lakhs with an average annual salary of ₹ 4.4 Lakhs.

10) Civil Services

UPSC conducts civil services examinations for recruiting candidates for higher civil services of the Indian Government. It is one of the toughest and most prestigious examinations in the world. The exam includes three stages – Prelims, Mains, and Interview round.

UPSC recruits candidates for various civil services, such as the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), the Indian Police Service (IPS), and the Indian Foreign Service (IFS).

Education Qualification

Becoming a civil servant in India involves a competitive and rigorous examination process conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). 

1. Educational Qualification: Possess a bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognised university. There are no specific requirements for the type of degree.

2. Understand the Examination Structure: The Civil Services Examination (CSE) consists of three stages:

• Preliminary Examination (Objective type)
• Main Examination (Descriptive type)
• Personality Test (Interview)

3. Final Selection: Personality Test is the last stage of the Civil Services Exam. After the UPSC Exam, the Commission conducts a Personality Test, which is 275 Marks. The interview is a lengthy process and the panel consists of subject matter experts, bureaucrats, educationists and the board chairperson.

The final merit list is prepared based on the combined scores of the Main Examination and the Personality Test.

4. Complete the IAS Training at LBSNAA: LBSNAA (Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration, Mussoorie) is a crucial part of the training process for civil servants in India. The training at LBSNAA serves as a common platform for officers from various services, fostering a holistic understanding of governance and public administration. The academy plays a pivotal role in shaping the future leaders of the Indian bureaucracy, emphasising the values of public service and leadership.

Job Role

• They are responsible for maintaining law and order and implementing government and developmental policies.

Skills Required

• Leadership
• Communication skills
• Organisation skills
• Interpersonal skills
• Problem-Solving skills

Average Salary

• Civil Servant salary in India ranges between ₹ 6 Lakhs to ₹ 15 Lakhs per annum.

Also Read: 10 Amazing Tips for IAS Preparation

11) Bonus: Q&A Expert

Chegg allows you to earn extra income by taking a few hours out of your day. If you are an expert in any subject like engineering, earth science, maths, business, etc., you can become a Q&A expert at Chegg. As an expert, you have to answer questions related to the subject. 

You will be paid for every correct answer. It is a part-time job that will allow you to work from the comfort of your home and will give you all the benefits including working as per your schedule and timely payments.

Most Paid Jobs in India – Industry Wise

Here is a list of jobs broken down by various industries based on their average and highest salaries.

Industry	Job	Average Salary	Highest Salary
Government	IAS/IPS IFS	INR 6.73 LPA INR 7.20 LPA	INR 24 LPA INR 76.20
Medical	Doctor Nurse	INR 7 LPA INR 2 LPA	INR 25 LPA INR 4 LPA
Finance	CA CS Business Manager	INR 4.3 LPA INR 6 LPA INR 7 LPA	INR 16 LPA INR 15 LPA INR 25 LPA
Aviation	Cabin Crew Pilot	INR 5.5 LPA INR 18 LPA	INR 12 LPA INR 85 LPA
Media	Actor Web Developer	INR 4.90 LPA INR 3 LPA	INR 11.90 LPA INR 7.2 LPA
Engineering	Aeronautical Engineer Chemical Engineer	INR 4 LPA INR 3.4 LPA	INR 19 LPA INR 9 LPA

Source: Ambition Box

Highest Salary Jobs in India for Freshers

Starting a career might be difficult, but amazing opportunities abound! These in-demand fields provide significant income potential for recent graduates:

• Machine Learning Expert
• Data Analyst
• Software Engineer
• Full Stack Developer
• Cloud Engineer
• Cybersecurity Analyst

How to Choose The Right Career?

Choosing the right career is a big decision that can shape your future. Here are some simple steps to help you find the right path:

1. Self-Assessment: Start by understanding yourself. What are your interests, strengths, and weaknesses? Think about what activities make you happy and what skills you enjoy using.

2. Research Options: Explore different careers that match your interests. Use online resources, books, or conversations with professionals in those fields to learn about their daily tasks, challenges, and rewards.

3. Consider Education and Training: Some careers require specific education or training. Check what qualifications you need and if you’re willing to pursue them.

4. Evaluate Job Opportunities: Research the job market for the careers you’re considering. Are there many openings? What is the average salary? Understanding job prospects can help you make a more informed choice.

5. Seek Advice: Talk to friends, family, or career counselors. They can offer valuable insights and perspectives that might help you think differently.
6. Trust Your Gut: Finally, listen to your intuition. Choose a career that excites you and feels right. Remember, it’s okay to change paths later if you discover new interests!

Future Trends in Employment in India

Here are some expected job trends specific to India:

• Digital Transformation:  As the world becomes more digital, the demand for IT workers will increase.
• Remote Work:  The continuation of remote work due to COVID-19 will result in the creation of virtual roles across industries.
• E-commerce and Logistics: The growth of e-commerce platforms will create job possibilities in logistics, supply chain management, and last-mile deliveries.
• Healthcare and Telemedicine:The growing healthcare industry will generate opportunities for doctors, nurses, and technology workers.
• Renewable Energy:  Employment is increasing in renewable energy areas such as solar and wind power.
• Edtech: Online teaching, content creation, and educational technology development will all provide work prospects.
• AI and Data Science: There are several career opportunities for AI, machine learning, and data science professionals.
• Sustainability and Green Jobs: Work in environmentally friendly construction, waste management, and green energy.
• Cybersecurity:There is an increased demand for cybersecurity specialists.
• Fintech:  Advancements in digital payments, blockchain, and financial analytics.
• Health and Wellness: An increase in wellness coaching, mental health counseling, and fitness training.
• Manufacturing and Electronics: Self-sufficiency in manufacturing and electronics production will result in job opportunities.

Summing Up

In this article, we have discussed the most paid jobs in India. But you should not just look at the pay and make your decision. Your interests, ambitions, and skills should also be taken into consideration before making a decision.

Choosing a career option is an important step in life. Hence deciding on basis of management may hamper you in the future. Assess yourself, identify your potential, and gear up for any job opportunity, whether it’s work from home or the office, choose what suits you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)