TTT NEWS NETWORK
THIMPHU ( BHUTAN) | MARCH 20, 2025
Bhutan, the nation that redefined human development and convinced the United Nations to celebrate March 20 as International Happiness Day, has been commended for its efforts by Padma S.K. Thorat, former Chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC), India.
Speaking as the chief guest at the International Happiness Day Conference in Thimphu, Bhutan, organized by the Association of Buddhist Tourist Operators (ABTO) and the Buddhist Society of India (BSI), Thorat highlighted how Bhutan’s Happiness Index offers a unique perspective on human development, distinct from Western economic models. He emphasized that while most countries measure development through income and economic growth, Bhutan’s approach focuses on holistic well-being.
A Unique Perspective on Happiness:
Addressing the gathering, Mallepalli Laxmaiah, International President of ABTO, praised Bhutan, a small nation with a population of 800,000, for setting an example for the 8 billion people of the world on how to live happily. He stressed the importance of collaborating with Buddhist countries and organizations to promote Buddhism and Buddhist tourism. Laxmaiah also encouraged regional conferences on Happiness Day to spread awareness about holistic well-being.
Expressing gratitude, he thanked the King of Bhutan and local Buddhist organizations for allowing this historic event to take place in Bhutan.
Professor Rikka Limbadri, former Chairman of the Telangana State Higher Education Council, emphasized that true happiness lies in leading a life based on Buddhist principles, where personal well-being aligns with social responsibility. He stated that Buddhism provides a clear path to lasting happiness.
Khunjag Drukpa, President of NRC Educational Institutions in Paro, Bhutan, highlighted the importance of celebrating happiness daily, not just on special occasions. He pointed out that practicing right thought and right action, as taught by Buddha, helps individuals overcome greed, ignorance, hatred, and jealousy.
“Happiness is built on faith, self-effort, and a deep connection with nature and society,” he added.
Global Participation:
The conference also featured speeches by Chandrabodhi Patil, National President of BSI, and Parandhamulu, State President of BSI, among other representatives from various countries.
This first-ever International Happiness Day Conference in Bhutan marked a significant step in promoting Bhutan’s philosophy of Gross National Happiness (GNH) as a model for global well-being.
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