The Economic Times

Income tax for new India: Freelancers, gig workers and more; nature of earnings has changed, and Budget 2026 must address them

For a growing section of taxpayers - young professionals, gig workers, and freelancers - filing a tax return still remains complex. Multiple income streams, digital transactions, and evolving compliance norms often lead to confusion and anxiety. So, as India advances toward becoming a digital-first economy, it is imperative to establish a simplified, intuitive, and user-friendly tax framework.