Highest Paying Medical Jobs in India in 2025

By upGrad

Updated on Sep 02, 2025 | 10 min read | 933.52K+ views

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Did You Know? 
The government has allocated ₹2,445 crore under the PLI scheme for the pharmaceutical industry. In fact, the sector has witnessed a 191% jump in budgetary allocation, from ₹34,286 crore in FY14-15 to now! 

India’s healthcare is booming and the high paying jobs jobs in the medical field in India, such as neurologist, cardiologist and oncologist, are both financially rewarding as well as socially prestigious.These highly paid medical jobs in India not only provide stability but also open doors to global career opportunities. 

The country’s health-tech sector is projected to reach USD 21.3 billion by 2025, further boosting demand for specialists across the highest paying jobs in the medical field in India. This blog covers the highest paying medical jobs in India in 2025, covering doctor salaries, top medical specialties, and career paths. 

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A neurosurgeon is just one exciting example of high-paying medical career. Dive deeper into the top highest-paying jobs in the world and discover the amazing opportunities waiting for you!

What are the Top Highest-Paying Medical Jobs in India in 2025? 

India's growing healthcare sector has opened the door to many highest paying medical jobs, offering both strong income and job security. Specialized medical courses, years of training, and proficiency in managing complex cases are necessary for these positions. 

Many of the highest-paid jobs in the medical field in India, from surgery to diagnostics, are well-respected and in high demand in both private practices and hospitals. 

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Here’s a list of the top 10 highest-paying medical jobs in India, along with their average annual salaries and key responsibilities: 

Medical Job Role 

Average Annual Salary (INR) 

Key Duties 

Neurosurgeon  ₹10L - ₹68L 
  • Perform surgeries on the brain, spine, and nerves. 
  • Diagnose neurological disorders. 
Cardiologist  ₹2.3L - ₹70L 
  • Treat heart conditions 
  • Perform angioplasty, ECGs, and heart surgeries. 
Orthopedic Surgeon  ₹8L -  ₹48L 
  • Treat injuries and diseases of the musculoskeletal system 
  • Perform joint replacements. 
Oncologist  ₹2L - ₹98L 
  • Diagnose and treat cancer patients 
  • Manage chemotherapy and radiation therapy. 
Gastroenterologist  ₹7L - ₹75L 
  • Treat digestive system issues 
  • Perform endoscopy and related procedures. 
Dermatologist  ₹4.5L - ₹24L 
  • Treat skin, hair, and nail disorders 
  • Provide cosmetic treatments. 
Radiologist  ₹3.1L - ₹50L 
  • Interpret X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans 
  • Assist in diagnosis and treatment planning. 
General Surgeon  ₹3L - ₹30.3L 
  • Perform routine and emergency surgeries 
  • Manage post-operative care. 
Psychiatrist  ₹1L - ₹24L 
  • Diagnose and treat mental health issues 
  • Provide therapy and medication. 
ENT Specialist  ₹5.1L - ₹40L 
  • Treat ear, nose, and throat conditions. 
  • Perform minor surgeries and diagnostics. 

Source: Ambitionbox 

Note: The average annual salaries mentioned in the table are approximate and may vary as per the experience, employer, and location. 

What Are the Best High-Paying Medical Careers Without NEET? 

Not every student who dreams of a career in healthcare need to clear NEET. There are many highest paying medical jobs in India that don’t require NEET but still provide rewarding opportunities, financial stability, and prestige.  

Below, we check out the high salary career options in medical without NEET, their scope, and average earnings. 

1. Pharmacist 

Pharmacists are in demand due to India’s booming pharmaceutical sector. With government support and the PLI scheme worth ₹2,445 crore, this sector is growing fast. 

Key Highlights: 

  • No NEET required, only PCB in 12th. 
  • Work in hospitals, research labs, or retail.

Pharmacist Salary in India 

Level 

Average Salary (per year) 

Entry-level 

(0-1 years) 

₹1.8 - ₹2.4 LPA 

Mid-level  

( 7-9 years) 

₹2.1 - ₹3.1 LPA 

Senior/Manager 

( 15+years) 

₹3.1 - ₹5 LPA 

Source: Glassdoor 

2. Physiotherapist 

With rising lifestyle diseases and injuries, physiotherapists have become crucial. This makes it one of the best courses after 12th medical without NEET. 

Scope: 

  • Sports, rehabilitation centers, and hospitals. 

Physiotherapist Salary in India 

Level 

Average Salary (per year) 

Entry-level 

(0-1 years) 

₹2.1 - ₹3 LPA 

Mid-level  

( 7-9 years) 

₹2.7 - ₹4.9 LPA 

Senior/Manager 

( 15+years) 

₹4 - ₹11 LPA 

Source: Glassdoor 

3. Biotechnologist 

Biotechnology is among the highest paying jobs in the medical field in India without NEET. From genetics to vaccine development, its role is expanding post-COVID. 

Scope: 

  • Pharma companies, research labs, and food-tech. 
  • India’s biotech industry is expected to reach $150 billion by 2025.

Biotechnologist Salary in India 

Level 

Average Salary (per year) 

Entry-level 

(0-1 years) 

₹2.4 - ₹3.6 LPA 

Mid-level  

( 7-9 years) 

₹6 - ₹8 LPA 

Senior/Manager 

( 15+years) 

₹9 - ₹12 LPA 

Source: Glassdoor 

4. Nursing 

Nursing is one of the most respected medical courses without NEET. Global demand ensures both job security and high earnings. 

Scope: 

  • Hospitals in India & abroad. 
  • Specializations in ICU, pediatric, surgical, etc.

Nurse Salary in India 

Level 

Average Salary (per year) 

Entry-level 

(0-1 years) 

₹2.1 - ₹3 LPA 

Mid-level  

( 7-9 years) 

₹1.9 - ₹4.08 LPA 

Senior/Manager 

( 15+years) 

₹12 - ₹12 LPA 

Source: Glassdoor

Also Read: Pursuing a Career in Hospital Administration? Here’s How to Do It! 

5. Medical Lab Technologist (MLT) 

MLTs are the backbone of diagnostics, making it one of the high salary career options in medical without NEET.

Scope: 

  • Pathology labs, hospitals, and diagnostic centers. 
  • India’s diagnostic industry is growing at 14% CAGR.

MLT Salary in India 

Level 

Average Salary (per year) 

Entry-level 

(0-1 years) 

₹1.6 - ₹2.5 LPA 

Mid-level  

( 7-9 years) 

₹4.2 - ₹5.4 LPA 

Senior/Manager 

( 15+years) 

₹3.6 - ₹5.7 LPA 

Source: Glassdoor  

What is the Average Salary of a Doctor in India Based on Different Factors? 

The salary of doctor in India is influenced by multiple factors such as location, specialization, and the type of healthcare sector they work in. While general MBBS doctors earn comparatively modest salaries, specialists and super-specialists command significantly higher packages.  

Additionally, doctors in metro cities and private hospitals often earn more due to higher patient demand and advanced healthcare infrastructure. 

Let’s learn about how doctor salaries in India change with city, sector, and specialization. 

What is the Average Salary of a Doctor in India by City? 

Doctors aiming for highly paid medical jobs in India often find their earnings significantly shaped by geography, specialization, and the nature of their practice.  

The given table is a crisp breakdown that highlights how location impacts the average salary of a doctor in India, including comparisons between metro and smaller towns. 

Location-Based Salary Comparison of an MBBS Doctor 

City / Region 

Avg. Annual Salary Range 

Key Highlights 

Smaller Towns  ₹3,00,000 - ₹7,20,000  Limited infrastructure, fewer private hospitals, moderate patient flow 
Bangalore  ₹8,00,000 - ₹10,00,000  Rapidly growing healthcare sector, driven by IT hub migration and rising demand 
Chennai  ₹8,50,000 - ₹10,00,000  Strong mix of government & private hospitals, presence of top medical colleges 
Hyderabad  ₹7,00,000 - ₹11,00,000  Expanding healthcare ecosystem with increasing specialty hospitals 
Delhi NCR  ₹9,00,000 - ₹15,00,000  High patient volume, premium private hospitals, lucrative practice opportunities 
Pune  ₹7,50,000 - ₹11,00,000  Emerging hub with steady growth in private healthcare facilities 
Mumbai  ₹8,00,000 - ₹14,00,000  Corporate hospitals, competitive environment, strong demand for specialists 

Source: Ambitionbox 

What is the Average Salary of an MBBS Doctor in India by Sector? 

The salary of MBBS doctors in India varies depending on whether they work in private or government hospitals. 

Sector Differences: Government vs. Private 

  • Government Hospitals: Offer a range from ₹7.2-9.6 LPA, with benefits like housing, pensions, and job security. 
  • Private Hospitals: Provide higher pay (₹4.8-8.4 LPA) but often include longer hours and performance pressure. 

Also Read: Public Health Careers in India 

What Education and Training Are Required for High-Paying Medical Jobs in India? 

Education and training play a critical role in shaping careers in the healthcare sector. To secure high-paying medical jobs in India, candidates must undergo structured programs that include undergraduate, postgraduate, and super-specialty courses. Each stage opens opportunities for advanced roles and better salaries. 

Qualification 

Duration 

Career Opportunities 

Average Salary (per year) 

MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery)  5.5 years  General Physician, Junior Doctor  ₹1 - 13.5 Lakhs 
MD/MS (Postgraduate Specialization)  2-3 years  Surgeon, Pediatrician, Gynecologist  ₹12 - 24 Lakhs 
DM/MCh (Super Specialization)  3 years  Cardiologist, Neurologist, Oncologist  Upto ₹18+ Lakhs 

 

Source: Ambitionbox, Glassdoor 

What Is the Future of High-Paying Medical Jobs in India? 

India’s healthcare industry is expanding rapidly with rising demand for doctors, surgeons, and healthcare researchers. From medical research to specialized fields like cardiology and neurology, career opportunities are set to grow.  

Below, we check out the career scope in medical research and the overall future of the medical profession in India. 

What is the Career Scope in Medical Research in India? 

Medical research is becoming a highly paid career path as India invests in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and clinical trials. According to IBEF, the Indian pharmaceutical industry is expected to reach USD 130 billion by 2030, creating new roles in R&D. 

Key career options in medical research: 

Role 

Average Salary (per year) 

Clinical Research Scientist  ₹9-15 LPA 
Pharmacologist  ₹2-15 LPA 
Public Health Researcher  ₹7-9 LPA 
Biotech Researcher  ₹6-6 LPA 

Source: Ambitionbox, Glassdoor, Payscale 

What is the Overall Future of the Medical Profession in India? 

The future of the medical profession in India looks very strong. More hospitals, better technology, and higher demand for doctors and healthcare staff will create many job opportunities. Below are some key points: 

  • Healthcare Market Size:  India’s healthcare market is expected to surge from US$372 billion in 2023 to around US$610 billion by 2026, fueled by investments in hospitals, diagnostics, digital health, and medical tourism. 
  • Doctor-to-Population Ratio:  India currently maintains a ratio of 1 doctor for every 834 people, which is better than the WHO guideline of 1:1,000. Still, more specialists are needed as demand grows. 
  • Digital Health & Innovation:  The telemedicine and digital health market is expanding rapidly. India’s hospital sector alone is estimated to reach US $193.6 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 8% from 2024.  
  • Medical Education Growth: The growing demand for doctors in India has led to a significant increase in medical college seats. Since 2014, the number of MBBS and postgraduate (PG) seats has more than doubled, allowing more students to enter the profession and become doctors or specialists. This expansion helps meet the rising need for healthcare professionals across the country. 

From the above stats its clear that the future of the medical profession in India is very promising, with growing hospitals, technology, and job opportunities. More doctors and specialists will be needed to meet the rising demand. Students and professionals in healthcare can expect strong career growth and high-paying medical jobs in the years ahead. 

What are the Most Essential Skills Required by Medical Professionals? 

Professionals in the medical field require more than just technical knowledge to succeed. Having the correct set of skills is essential to providing high-quality care and establishing a long-term career.  

The following are the most important skills for people expecting to succeed in the highest paying jobs in the medical field:

1. Communication Skills: 

  • With clear communication, you can ensure effective interaction with patients, families, and healthcare teams, leading to better care outcomes. 
  • Communication also helps in explaining diagnoses, treatment options, and instructions, and improving patient understanding and compliance 

Check out our Communication Courses designed to take your communication ability to the next level! 

2. Time Management: 

  • Efficient time management allows medical professionals to handle multiple patients and tasks without compromising care quality 
  • With proper scheduling and prioritization, you can reduce stress and prevent burnout, ensuring the timely delivery of medical services 

Also Read: 15 Ways to Improve Time Management Skills

3. Attention to Detail:  

  • Precision in diagnosis, treatment plans, and medication administration reduces the risk of errors and enhances patient safety 
  • Attention to detail ensures that vital information is not overlooked, leading to more accurate patient assessments 

4. Critical thinking:  

  • Critical thinking enables you to assess complex situations and make informed decisions quickly 
  • It helps in diagnosing conditions, solving medical problems, and adapting treatment plans based on patient needs 

5. Adaptability:

  • Adaptability helps medical professionals respond effectively to changes in patient conditions, new medical technologies, or shifting workplace environments 
  • Being adaptable ensures a high level of performance in dynamic and often unpredictable healthcare settings 

6. Leadership:  

  • Leadership skills are crucial for managing medical teams and ensuring cohesive and effective collaboration in patient care. 
  • With strong leadership, you can promote patient safety and trust, and also foster a positive work culture. 

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Conclusion 

In this blog we looked at the highest paying medical jobs in India, including surgeons, specialists, pharmacists, nurses, and medical researchers. It also shows how doctor salary in India varies by city, specialization, and sector, and highlights high salary career options in medical without NEET. 

Choosing the right medical courses after 12th or medical courses without NEET can lead to a rewarding career with strong growth and high earning potential in the medical field.  

However, if you want to pursue a rewarding career in the medical field but not sure where to start? Book a free counseling session with our experts today and get personalized guidance to choose the right path for your future! 

You may also check our range of free courses from different industry-relevant domains 

Elevate your leadership and strategic thinking with our popular management courses, designed to shape you into a dynamic and effective leader in today's competitive business world.

Discover actionable insights and expert strategies in our top management articles, crafted to inspire and empower your journey to leadership excellence.

References:
https://www.expresshealthcare.in/news/decoding-union-budget-2025-key-takeaways-for-healthcare-sector/447938/
https://in.indeed.com/career/neurosurgeon/salaries
https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/cardiologist-salary
https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/orthopedic-surgeon-salary
https://in.indeed.com/career/oncologist/salaries
https://in.indeed.com/career/gastroenterologist/salaries
https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/dermatologist-salary
https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/radiologist-salary
https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/general-surgeon-salary
https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/psychiatrist-salary
https://www.ambitionbox.com/profile/ent-specialist-salary

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which is the highest-paid medical specialty in India?

Specialties like neurosurgery, cardiology, and oncology are among the highest paying medical jobs in India, offering top salaries and strong career growth.

2. Who is the highest-paid doctor in India and why?

Top surgeons and specialists like cardiologists and neurosurgeons often top the pay charts due to their expertise, years of training, and demand for highly paid medical jobs in India.

3. What is the salary of a general MBBS doctor in India?

The average salary of a doctor in India with an MBBS ranges between ₹4.8-8.4 LPA in private hospitals and ₹7.2-9.6 LPA in government hospitals.

4. What is the average salary of a NEET-qualified doctor per month?

Doctors who qualify through NEET typically start with a salary of ₹30,000 to ₹80,000 per month during internships or junior residency. With experience, their income can grow substantially, especially in high-demand specialties such as radiology or dermatology, which are among the highest paying medical jobs in India.

5. How much does a surgeon earn in India in 2025?

The surgeon salary in India ranges from ₹6-25 LPA for orthopedic surgeons and up to ₹2cr for neurosurgeons in top hospitals.

6. Can doctors in India earn ₹50 lakhs per month?

Doctors with over a decade of experience in top private hospitals or who run successful specialty practices, especially neurosurgeons or high-profile cardiologists, may earn ₹50 lakhs per month. However, this is rare and usually the result of long-term success in one of the highest-paying jobs in the medical field.

7. How can I become a neurosurgeon in India?

The path includes completing MBBS, then MS or MCh in Neurosurgery, gaining experience through internships, residencies, and working in high-demand hospitals-one of the most high salary career options in medical without NEET.

8. Which medical colleges in India offer the best path to high salaries?

Top institutes like AIIMS Delhi, PGIMER Chandigarh, and CMC Vellore provide quality education and exposure, opening doors to the highest paying jobs in medical field in India.

9. What is the step-by-step path to becoming a surgeon in India?

  1. Complete PCB courses after 12th and qualify NEET. 
  2. Pursue MBBS (5.5 years)-one of the best courses after 12th medical. 
  3. Complete postgraduate MD/MS (3 years) in surgery. 
  4. Gain experience through internships and residency programs. 
  5. Optionally, specialize further with super-specialty courses (MCh) for top surgeon salary in India. 
  6. Build practice or join reputed hospitals for highly paid medical jobs in India 

10. Which medical courses after 12th without NEET can lead to good salaries?

Options like pharmacy, physiotherapy, nursing, medical lab technology (MLT), and biotechnology are excellent high salary career options in medical without NEET. These courses offer rewarding roles in hospitals, labs, and research.

11. Can I earn well in medical jobs without NEET?

Yes. Without NEET medical courses such as pharmacy, nursing, and physiotherapy allow students to enter the healthcare field and earn competitive salaries. These are some of the highest paying medical jobs in India without NEET.

12. Can doctors work abroad for better salaries after NEET?

Yes. Indian doctors with NEET qualification and MBBS/MD degrees can pursue medical courses abroad or licensing exams like USMLE, leading to highly paid medical jobs in India and globally.

13. What are the most rewarding non-clinical medical jobs in India?

Careers like medical research, clinical trial management, health administration, and medical writing are among high salary career options in medical without NEET and often provide excellent work-life balance.

14. Does specialization affect doctor salary in India?

Absolutely. Specialized fields like cardiology, neurology, and oncology significantly increase earnings. Doctor salary in India depends heavily on specialization, making it one of the highest paying jobs in medical field in India.

15. What is the role of digital health in future doctor salaries?

With telemedicine and AI in healthcare, doctors and specialists can explore highly paid medical jobs in India in digital health, often earning more due to advanced skills and remote consultations.

16. What are the top medical jobs for girls in India?

Careers like MBBS, BDS, nursing, pharmacy, physiotherapy, and medical lab technology are popular among women and are part of the highest paying medical jobs in India, offering good work-life balance.

17. Are biotech and research jobs in medical field high-paying?

Yes. Biotechnology and medical research roles are highly paid medical jobs in India, especially in pharma, diagnostics, and R&D sectors. Average salaries range from ₹6-12 LPA depending on experience and specialization.

18. Can doctors use AI to boost their earnings?

Offcourse. AI tools in surgery, diagnostics, and patient management help doctors increase efficiency and patient throughput, indirectly improving doctor salary in India and creating highly paid medical jobs in India.

19. Which medical fields are expected to grow fastest with AI and digital health?

Fields like radiology, pathology, cardiology, and digital health analytics are trending. These are considered highly paid medical jobs in India due to the integration of AI, advanced diagnostics, and health-tech innovations.

20. What is the happiest job in the medical field?

The happiest jobs in the medical field are those that combine patient interaction, meaningful impact, and a good work-life balance. Some of the most satisfying medical careers include: 

  1. General Practitioner / Family Physician - Builds long-term relationships with patients and makes a real difference in their lives. 
  2. Pediatrician - Caring for children offers emotional rewards and strong connections with families. 
  3. Physiotherapist - Helps patients recover from injuries and improves their quality of life. 
  4. Occupational Therapist - Supports patients in regaining independence and daily functioning. 
  5. Radiologist / Pathologist - Provides intellectual challenge with less patient stress and more stable hours.

21. Why are these roles considered happy?

  • You can see the direct positive impact on patients’ lives. 
  • Offers better work-life balance compared to high-stress specialties like surgery. 
  • Opportunities for growth, learning, and specialization without extreme burnout. 

These roles are perfect for those looking for meaningful, high salary career options in medical without NEET or highly paid medical jobs in India that also bring personal satisfaction.

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