New Delhi, March 3 -- A new term that entered the lexicon after India's budget for 2026-27 was the 'orange economy.' Synonymous with the creative economy, it is emerging as a formidable engine of growth that transcends traditional industrial boundaries. Once viewed as niche, the intersection of culture, technology and intellectual property now accounts for roughly 3.1% of global GDP and 6.2% of all employment.

For a country like India, where recent budgetary initiatives recognize the strategic value of creative assets, the growth of this sector offers more than just economic expansion. It presents a data-driven pathway to greater gender parity and social inclusion.

The creative economy is inherently decentralized and knowledge-based, wh...