Top 20 HR Salaries in India: A Quick Overview

Human Resources (HR) professionals play a pivotal role in building strong, people-driven organizations. From hiring the right talent to maintaining a healthy company culture, they ensure smooth business operations.

If you're eyeing a career in HR, here’s the good news—HR salary in India typically starts at ₹3–5 LPA for freshers and can go up to ₹12–18 LPA with experience and specialization. This makes HR not only a fulfilling career but also a financially rewarding one.

This page covers everything you need to know about HR as a career—roles and responsibilities, required skills, industry demand, and, most importantly, a detailed breakdown of HR salary in India based on experience, location, and job profile.

Did you know? According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of human resources specialists is projected to grow by 8% from 2023 to 2033 worldwide, highlighting the rising demand for HR professionals across every industry!

Keep reading to learn more about Human Resource (HR) salaries in India and how you can build a career in this field.

Key Highlights:

Top HR Jobs	Average Annual Salary	Experience
Training and Development Coordinator	INR 4.25L	0 - 2 years
Employee Relations Coordinator	INR 4.5L	1 - 3 years
HR Analyst	INR 4.5L	1 - 3 years
Talent Acquisition Specialist	INR 6L	2 - 4 years
Payroll Specialist	INR 6L	2 - 4 years
Senior Learning and Development Manager	INR 15L	7 - 10 years
Compensation and Benefits Manager	INR 15L	7 - 10 years
Senior Talent Acquisition Manager	INR 20.5L	8 - 12 years
HR Director	INR 40L	12 - 15 years
Vice President of HR	INR 48.5L	15 + years

Sourced By: Glassdoor & Ambition Box

Did you know? HR stands for Human Resources, the department responsible for managing an organization’s most valuable asset—its people! From hiring and onboarding to employee engagement and compliance, HR keeps the workplace running smoothly

Want to learn about the essential HR skills? Then sign up for upGrad's Online Programs in Human Resource Management and start applying for these top HR jobs in India.

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What is HR Salary in India for Freshers?

When starting a career in HR, freshers generally have little to no work experience in the field. As a result, their salary tends to be lower than that of more experienced professionals. 

Freshers in HR roles usually work under the supervision of senior HR managers and assist with basic HR functions like recruitment, employee onboarding, and maintaining records.

Experience and responsibility grow with time, leading to higher salaries as professionals advance in their careers. The average annual salary of HR fresher jobs generally ranges from INR 3L to INR 6L.

For freshers, HR roles are available in various industries such as:

• IT
• Healthcare
• Education
• Retail
• Manufacturing

These industries are constantly hiring HR professionals to manage their workforce and ensure smooth operations.

As a fresher in HR, your responsibilities might include:

• Assisting in recruitment and interviewing candidates
• Managing employee records and documents
• Supporting employee training and development programs
• Handling basic payroll and benefits administration
• Assisting with employee engagement activities

Here’s a look at the top fresher jobs offering the highest HR salary in India:

Fresher HR Job Title	Average Annual Salary
Compensation and Benefits Assistant	INR
HR Recruiter	INR 3L
HR Operations Executive	INR 3.5L
HR Executive	INR 4L
HR Assistant	INR 4L
Training and Development Coordinator	INR 4.25L
Employee Relations Coordinator	INR 4.5L
HR Analyst	INR 4.5L
Talent Acquisition Specialist	INR 6L
Payroll Specialist	INR 6L

Sourced By: Glassdoor & Ambition Box

Note: The average annual salaries mentioned in the table are approximate and may vary depending on the location and employer.

What is the HR Salary in India for Experienced?

As HR professionals gain experience, they take on leadership roles, manage larger teams, and oversee complex HR functions like employee engagement, conflict resolution, and organizational development. 

Unlike fresher roles, which focus on supporting senior HR managers, experienced HR positions involve decision-making and strategic planning. 

With increased expertise, HR professionals can specialize in areas such as recruitment, compensation, and learning and development, allowing them to manage larger projects and guide junior staff. Experienced professional's HR salary in India generally ranges from INR 6L to INR 50L per annum.

As an experienced HR professional, your responsibilities include:

• Lead recruitment efforts:

  Oversee hiring strategies and ensure top talent acquisition.

• Manage employee performance:

  Conduct performance reviews and drive employee growth.

• Design and implement training programs:

  Develop training initiatives to upskill employees.

• Handle employee relations:

  Resolve workplace conflicts and maintain a positive environment.

• Develop compensation and benefits strategies:

  Create competitive salary and benefits packages.

• Oversee HR policies and compliance:

  Ensure adherence to labor laws and internal policies.

• Lead organizational development:

  Improve organizational culture and employee engagement.

• Manage HR teams:

  Supervise and mentor junior HR staff, fostering growth and productivity.

Here’s a look at the average salaries for experienced HR roles in India:

Experienced HR Job Title	Average Annual Salary
Senior HR Executive	INR 6.5L
HR Manager	INR 9L
HR Business Partner	INR 12L
Senior HR Manager	INR 13L
Employee Relations Manager	INR 14L
Senior Learning and Development Manager	INR 15L
Compensation and Benefits Manager	INR 15L
Senior Talent Acquisition Manager	INR 20.5L
HR Director	INR 40L
Vice President of HR	INR 48.5L

Sourced By: Glassdoor & Ambition Box

Note: The average annual salaries mentioned in the table are approximate and may vary depending on the location and employer.

Also Read: Top Highest Paying HR Jobs in India

Which are the Top Industries Offering the Highest HR Salary in India

The role of HR professionals is crucial across various sectors, with businesses increasingly recognizing the value of effective workforce management. 

As HR continues to evolve, certain industries are offering higher salaries to attract skilled professionals who can manage recruitment, employee relations, and overall organizational development.

Here’s a look at the top industries offering the highest HR salaries in India:

5. Manufacturing:

• Retail and consumer goods companies require HR professionals to handle a large, diverse workforce, manage high turnover, and ensure smooth operations across various levels. 
• Salary Range: INR 3.5L - INR 25L per annum
• Top Roles: HR Manager, Talent Acquisition Specialist, Employee Engagement Manager

4. Education & E-Learning:

• With the growing demand for skilled educators and support staff, HR professionals in the education sector are critical for recruitment, training, and employee retention. 
• Salary Range: INR 3L - INR 15.5L per annum
  Top Roles: HR Manager, Learning and Development Specialist, Campus Recruitment Officer

3. IT & Technology:

• IT companies depend on HR professionals to recruit and retain talent in a highly competitive market. HR also plays a key role in shaping organizational culture and driving employee engagement. 
• Salary Range: INR 3.5L - INR 21L per annum
  Top Roles: HR Business Partner, Talent Acquisition Manager, HR Operations Manager

2. Pharmaceuticals & Healthcare:

• The healthcare sector requires HR professionals to manage diverse teams, from doctors to support staff, while ensuring compliance with industry regulations and promoting employee well-being. 
• Salary Range: INR 2.5L - INR 21L per annum
  Top Roles: HR Manager, Compensation and Benefits Manager, Employee Relations Specialist

1. Financial Services & Banking:

• Financial institutions rely heavily on HR professionals to recruit top talent, manage employee development, and ensure a productive work environment in a highly regulated industry. 
• Salary Range: INR 3.5L - INR 20L per annum
• Top Roles: HR Director, Learning and Development Manager, HR Business Partner

How to Become an HR Professional in India?

If you're interested in pursuing a career in HR and want to get the highest paying HR job in India, it's important to follow a clear path to build the necessary skills and qualifications. 

Becoming an HR professional involves a combination of education, practical experience, and continuous learning. 

Here's how you can get started:

Step 1: Obtain a relevant degree: 

• Start by pursuing a bachelor's degree in HR, business administration, or a related field. 
• A master's degree in HR management can further boost your qualifications.

Step 2: Gain practical experience: 

• Look for internships or entry-level HR roles to gain hands-on experience. 
• This will help you understand HR functions like recruitment, employee relations, and payroll management.

Step 3 Get certified:

• Consider earning certifications like SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management) or HRCI (Human Resource Certification Institute) to improve your knowledge and credibility.

Step 4 Develop key skills: 

• Focus on building important HR skills such as communication, problem-solving, conflict resolution, and leadership.

Step 5 Stay updated with HR trends: 

• HR is constantly evolving, so it's important to stay current with industry trends, laws, and technologies.

Step 6 Network with HR professionals: 

• Attend HR seminars, workshops, and events to build connections and learn from experienced professionals in the field.

To get an HR job, doing well in the interview is important. Our guide with top HR interview questions and answers will help you get ready.

What are the Future Trends of HR Professionals in India?

The HR field in India is evolving rapidly as businesses adapt to new technologies and changing work environments. With increasing automation and a focus on employee well-being, the role of HR professionals is expanding to include new responsibilities. 

The demand for skilled HR professionals is expected to rise, particularly in sectors that are growing and adapting to digital transformation.

Here are some key trends shaping the future of HR professionals in India:

• Higher HR Salaries:

  As the demand for skilled HR professionals grows, HR salaries in India are expected to increase, especially for roles involving strategic planning and employee engagement.

• Rising Demand in IT & Technology:

  The IT and technology sectors will continue to lead in hiring HR professionals, with a focus on talent acquisition, employee engagement, and organizational development.

• Remote and Hybrid Work Models:

  HR professionals will be more involved in managing remote teams, creating flexible policies, and ensuring effective communication across diverse work environments.

• Focus on Employee Wellness:

  HR roles will increasingly focus on employee mental health, work-life balance, and overall well-being, leading to a rise in positions like Employee Engagement Managers and Wellness Coordinators.

• Data-Driven HR:

  HR professionals will rely more on data and analytics to make decisions regarding talent management, compensation, and performance.

• Skills in AI and Automation:

  HR professionals with skills in AI and automation tools will be in high demand as companies use technology to simplify HR functions like recruitment, training, and payroll.

Can AI Transform Human Resource Management? Explore how AI is reshaping the future of human resources—from smarter recruitment to personalized employee experiences. Join Shreyas Shevade (Head of Content & Creative, upGrad) as he chats with Saurabh Deep Singla (CHRO, upGrad) and Anurag Bhartiya (Career & Life Coach) about the evolving role of technology in HR. Watch Now: Use of AI in HR Management | upGrad #shorts

Must Read: Top 6 HR Tools You Should Know

How Can upGrad help You?

If you're looking to build a successful career in HR, upGrad offers programs designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel.

upGrad’s Human Resources Management Certificate Course, in collaboration with eCornell, provides practical training in HR principles, strategic management, and modern HR practices, helping you stand out in this competitive field.

Here’s how upGrad can support your HR career:

• Industry-Relevant Curriculum: Learn key HR concepts and skills that are highly valued in today’s job market, including employee engagement, talent management, and data-driven HR practices.
• Flexible Learning Options: Study at your own pace with online modules that allow you to balance learning with your personal and professional commitments.
• Certification from eCornell: Earn a recognized HR management certificate from eCornell, enhancing your credibility and appeal to employers.
• Expert Guidance and Mentorship: Gain insights from industry experts and receive personalized mentorship to guide your learning and career development.
• Real-World Case Studies: Work on real-world projects and case studies that allow you to apply HR principles in practical scenarios.
• Career Assistance: Access career support services, including resume reviews, mock interviews, and networking opportunities to boost your job prospects in HR.

Ready to Boost Your HR Career? Enroll in upGrad’s HR Management Certificate Course and gain the skills to stand out. Join now!

Conclusion

The scope of HR in India is evolving rapidly, driven by digital transformation and growing focus on employee well-being. Whether you're starting out or climbing the corporate ladder, HR jobs salary in India offers promising rewards. With salaries ranging from ₹3 LPA to ₹15+ LPA depending on experience and expertise, the future of HR job salaries in India looks brighter than ever.

“Great vision without great people is irrelevant.” – Jim Collins

As businesses grow, they need passionate HR professionals to lead the way. So, if you're considering a career in HR, now’s the perfect time to step in and rise. 

If you're still unsure, why not get a free and personalized counseling session to guide you on your career path?