The Economics of Trust explores how cooperation, transparency, and shared prosperity drive sustainable and inclusive growth, especially in rural economies. This session highlights how trust empowers Farmer Producer Companies and social enterprises to uplift marginalized communities through fair wages, ethical practices, and improved access to markets and financial services. It delves into how governance, technology, and collective ownership strengthen resilience and reduce reliance on exploitative intermediaries. Trust not only fosters stronger supply chains and ethical consumerism but also builds long-term value and social impact. The talk encourages a shift from competition to collaboration, positioning trust as a key economic asset. Mr. Samarth Jain is the Director of Jai Jungle FPC, dedicated to sustainable food processing, tribal entrepreneurship, and value addition to minor forest produce (MFP) like Mahua and millets. With expertise in waste-to-energy solutions, nanotechnology, and sustainable agriculture, he has pioneered initiatives such as PLASTo-Fuel and India’s first Mahua-based hand sanitizer through Vedic Vatica Pvt. Ltd. As a Board Member of the District Tea and Coffee Development Board, Jashpur, he plays a key role in market strategy and policy formulation. With an Integrated Bachelor's and Master’s (M.Tech) in Nanotechnology, he continues to drive innovation, sustainability, and economic growth in the agro-processing sector, empowering tribal communities through sustainable enterprise. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
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