mumbai, Sept. 16 -- India's gig economy - freelancers, independent contractors and consultants, delivery partners and platform partners - is booming. The Economic Survey 2025-26 says the segment grew 55%, from 7.7 million workers in FY21 to 12 million in FY25, and now represents more than 2% of India's total workforce. The Labour Codes formally recognise gig and platform workers, with specific welfare schemes aimed at providing access to social security benefits (See Table 2). However, with inflation and rising life expectancy, it is prudent to look beyond government welfare for long-term financial security. If you are a freelancer or gig worker, build your own system to safeguard your income despite having no fixed employer, monthly income...