BHUTAN GROSS NATIONAL HAPPINESS

GNH – Gross National Happiness Over the years, Bhutan has cultivated a unique approach to development with its national philosophy anchored to the principle of Gross national happiness (GNH) which was coined by the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, His majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck in 1972.

It refers to a set of social and economic interventions that evaluate societal change in terms of the collective happiness of people and that lead to the adoption of policies aimed at that objective. Premised on the belief that all human beings aspire happiness in one way or another, the concept promotes collective happiness of the society as the ultimate goal of development.

Bhutan believes that the holistic development of the individual and society can be achieved only through a sustainable balance between the economic, social, emotional, spiritual and cultural needs of the people. Development initiatives based on GNH values are therefore not restricted to the present population of any given society; it includes future generations and other societies, indeed all sentient beings. GNH has been Bhutan’s overarching development philosophy that has guided the country’s development policies and programs.

Guided by this policy, the country has made rapid development in a short period of time. Achievements have come with very minimal impact on its culture and environment. The government of Bhutan implemented these policies through strict adherence to the four pillars which includes equitable and sustainable socio-economic development; preservation and promotion of its culture, conservation of environment and promotion of good governance. Courtesy: facts about Bhutan Lily Wangchuck The four pillars of GNH are the promotion of sustainable development, preservation and promotion of cultural values, conservation of the natural environment, and establishment of good governance.