India Inc Likely to See 9% Salary Growth in 2026: Mercer Report
India Inc may witness 9% salary rise in 2026: Report India Inc is expected to witness an average 9% salary increase in 2026 , with sectors such as automobiles and high technology leading the trend, according to a report by global HR consulting firm Mercer India . The projection comes amid a moderating economic environment, where salary hikes have largely remained in the high single-digit range. India Outpaces Global Salary Growth From a global perspective, India continues to emerge as one of the fastest-growing salary markets. Malathi KS, Rewards Consulting Leader at Mercer India, noted that India significantly outperforms developed economies such as the US, UK, Europe, and Japan , where salary growth typically ranges between 2% and 4% . This sustained momentum highlights India’s strong talent demand and evolving workforce dynamics, even as global economic conditions remain uncertain. Shift Towards Performance-Linked and Skills-Based Pay According to Mercer’s Total Remuneration Su...