India's bioeconomy needs a 360-degree approach beyond the USD 300 billion target to scale bioenergy, SAF, and carbon capture

India's bioeconomy is gaining momentum with accelerated ethanol blending and compressed biogas (CBG) scaling up. The article argues that hitting the USD 300 billion target is possible but success should be measured by cleaner air, safer food, and healthier soils. The next phase requires horizontal expansion into biologicals in agriculture, bio-based chemicals in manufacturing, and natural food preservatives. Emerging verticals like sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), biogas, and enzymatic carbon capture are highlighted as practical tools for hard-to-abate emissions. The author calls for streamlined regulations, faster approval pathways for bio-based inputs, and improved labelling so consumers and farmers can trust bio-based products. Institutional financing and offtake mechanisms are needed to de-risk these new industries. India's vast agricultural base and scientific talent position it to lead globally. The article suggests that combining depth in existing bioenergy sectors with breadth in new verticals could push the bioeconomy toward a trillion-dollar scale by 2047, supporting energy security and economic resilience.