And for a Friday in Thimpu – Capital of Bhutan…. some thoughts….
Indo German Chamber of Commerce (IGCC) organised the first Business Delegation to Bhutan and what a revelation this Country trip has been!!!!
There’s nothing comparable to this quaint, peaceful, happy nation, Bhutan, situated so strategically for India in the middle Himalayas bordering China but with very little Chinese influence. Thanks to the philosophy of the benevolent Monarchs. The fourth King Jigme Singye Wangchuk promulgated the philosophy of Gross National Happiness (GNH).
He is a visionary Benevolent Monarch who voluntarily gave up powers, introduced democracy in 2008 and institutionalised the GNH.
Education was made compulsory and free in schools, all in English Medium with equal importance to Bhutanese language, to maintain, close links with all generations of families, school children; and all citizens are mandated to wear the National Dress.
No project can be implemented, without the clearance from the GNH Commission, a very Powerful Body which will analyse the Project from Happiness to all Citizens criteria, so nice.
Achievement of GNH obviously requires various conditions. Safe and Healthy Natural Environment, Social and Cultural Harmony and a Vibrant and Sustainable Economy. These are difficult to balance but Bhutan is willing to forego economic growth if it does not meet other criteria.
This young country with the young King, has also realised the importance of Governance. Another powerful body is the Corruption Commission. Nothing will progress if Corruption is allowed to raise its head and so this powerful body nips it in the bud…. WOW!!!!!!
Our large country can also take learnings on Sustainable Development, need for Good Governance and a sustainable way of life…. the SEEGOS way….