The conventional method of measuring development has always been through Gross Domestic Product.  As such happiness has been, therefore, associated with the wealth of a person or a country. But in recent years research has shown happiness necessarily does not result from a higher GDP or per capita income. At a time when the world cannot slow down despite the deteriorating environment and is yet to come together and recognize that the GDP-driven development is unsustainable. That if we don’t take drastic measures now then we will not leave to our future generation, a world that they deserve, and have the opportunity to see its natural beauty. The fact that the growth at a rapid pace and the excessive greed is devouring our precious planet by depleting the natural resources; contributing to the global warming and exploiting the natural environment.

In Bhutan happiness indeed is a policy. Here development modalities are driven by the Gross National Happiness (GNH) philosophy. The GNH concept goes beyond conventional notion of happiness and puts forth a wholesome approach to development. The concept places happiness through contentment above unsustainable means of economic development, material comforts, etc, that would come at a cost of the environment and our unique culture and tradition. Basically it aims for true happiness through concrete development activities. Therefore the country identifies four major pillars of GNH and as such any development activity will contribute to one or more of those pillars; conservation of the environment, preservation and promotion of the culture and tradition, good governance and sustainable and equitable socio-economic development being the four overarching GNH pillars. Through these concerted efforts of the government an environment where people can seek happiness, is expected with emphasis on both spiritual and emotional well being of the people.

Few examples of GNH in action are Bhutan’s commitment to maintain at least 60% forest cover for all times to come and protect all forms of wild life, remain carbon neutral, control chemical-based agriculture and control tourism over mass tourism through its “high-value low impact” policy.