NEW DELHI: India's unincorporated sector – the backbone of many small businesses – kept its job numbers steady at a whopping 12.9 crore in the July-September quarter. A fresh survey from the country's statistics office released on Tuesday revealed some exciting trends. The number of small establishments nudged up from 7.9 crore in April-June to nearly 8 crore by July-Sept, showing fresh energy in the business world. The biggest chunk of workers, nearly 60%, were working owners – people who run and work in their own businesses. But here’s the spicy part: the share of hired workers also grew, jumping from 24.4% in April-June to 25.9% in July-Sept. More people are getting hired, signalling business growth! Urban areas saw a nice jump in jobs too, with the workforce rising from 6.61 crore to 6.9 crore, meaning cities are buzzing with new economic activity and labor opportunities. The total workforce growth of 7.2% outpaced the 5.3% rise in establishments, meaning existing businesses are hiring more people. Women power stayed strong in this sector, making up 28.7% of the total workforce. That's a big boost for women entrepreneurs and workers alike! And guess what? The internet is weaving its magic on this sector. Around 39% of these businesses were online in the July-Sept quarter, up from 36% earlier. More small businesses are using the web for their work and transactions, showing a digital transformation buzzing at the grassroots. Another positive: more firms are now officially registered. This change hints at formalisation and better recognition for these enterprises. So, the unincorporated sector is waving its vibrant flag high with steady jobs, more hires, women shining bright, and digital footprints growing fast. This is a fresh pulse of India's grassroots economy powering ahead!