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For many years, the pursuit of economic growth has been the primary focus of governments and policymakers around the world. This single-minded pursuit of GDP (Gross Domestic Product) growth has led to a range of environmental and social challenges, including climate change, biodiversity loss, and increasing inequality. As a result, there is a growing recognition that a more holistic approach to measuring and managing societal progress is needed.

In this context, the concept of "Gross National Happiness" (GNH) has emerged as an alternative to the traditional GDP-centric model. Pioneered by the Kingdom of Bhutan, GNH is a multidimensional framework that seeks to evaluate a country's development and well-being based on a range of factors, including mental health, environmental sustainability, and community vitality.

The core premise of GNH is that the ultimate goal of development should be to enhance the happiness and well-being of the population, rather than solely focusing on economic growth. This approach recognizes that material wealth alone does not necessarily translate into happiness or overall societal well-being. By considering a broader set of indicators, GNH aims to provide a more comprehensive understanding of a country's progress and the quality of life experienced by its citizens.

The GNH framework is based on four pillars: (1) sustainable and equitable socio-economic development, (2) environmental conservation, (3) preservation and promotion of culture, and (4) good governance. These pillars are further divided into nine domains, including psychological well-being, health, education, time use, cultural diversity and resilience, community vitality, ecological diversity and resilience, living standards, and good governance.

Implementing GNH as a national development strategy requires a significant shift in the way governments approach policymaking and decision-making. It involves integrating GNH principles into various sectors, such as healthcare, education, and environmental protection, and using a range of GNH-based metrics to guide policy formulation and evaluation.

While the GNH approach has gained traction in Bhutan and inspired interest in other countries, it also faces several challenges. Measuring and quantifying subjective well-being and cultural aspects can be complex and context-dependent. Additionally, there are concerns about the feasibility of implementing GNH in large, diverse, and economically developed countries, where the political and social dynamics may differ from Bhutan's unique context.

Despite these challenges, the GNH model has sparked a global conversation about rethinking development and progress. It has inspired a growing number of countries, regions, and cities to explore alternative measures of societal well-being, such as the OECD's Better Life Index and the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. As the world grapples with the limitations of the GDP-centric approach, the GNH model offers a compelling alternative that prioritizes the holistic well-being of people and the planet.

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