Bhutan: general information about country, happiness index 2024

World Happiness Report for Bhutan 2024

  • Overall Happiness Rank Bhutan: na
  • Happiness Score Bhutan:na

Happiness is a subjective concept that has long been debated by philosophers, psychologists, and economists alike. However, in recent years, there has been a growing interest in quantifying happiness and using it as a measure of a nation’s overall well-being. This is where the concept of the Happiness Index comes into play.

What is the Happiness Index?

The Happiness Index is a measure that attempts to quantify the overall happiness and life satisfaction of a country’s population. It is based on the idea that traditional economic indicators, such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP), do not fully capture the overall well-being of a society. The Happiness Index takes into account various factors that contribute to an individual’s sense of happiness and life satisfaction, including social support, freedom to make life choices, healthy life expectancy, and perceptions of corruption.

How is the Happiness Index Calculated?

The Happiness Index is calculated through a combination of subjective and objective data. The primary source of data is the Gallup World Poll, which is a survey conducted in over 160 countries. The survey asks respondents to rate their overall life satisfaction on a scale of 0 to 10, with 0 being the worst possible life and 10 being the best possible life.

In addition to the life satisfaction score, the Happiness Index also takes into account the following factors:

  1. GDP per capita: This is a measure of a country’s economic output and standard of living.
  2. Social support: This factor measures the extent to which individuals have supportive relationships and love in their lives.
  3. Healthy life expectancy: This is a measure of the number of years an individual is expected to live in good health.
  4. Freedom to make life choices: This factor measures the extent to which individuals are able to make decisions about their lives without external constraints.
  5. Generosity: This factor measures the extent to which individuals engage in charitable activities and donate to others.
  6. Perceptions of corruption: This factor measures the extent to which individuals perceive their society to be free from corruption.

These factors are weighted and combined to produce an overall Happiness Index score for each country.

What Does the Happiness Index Affect?

The Happiness Index has significant implications for policymaking and societal well-being. Countries with higher Happiness Index scores are generally considered to have better overall quality of life and well-being for their citizens. This can have positive impacts on various aspects of society, including:

  1. Economic productivity: Happier individuals tend to be more productive and engaged in their work, which can contribute to a country’s economic growth.
  2. Public health: Higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction are associated with better physical and mental health outcomes, which can reduce healthcare costs and improve overall well-being.
  3. Social cohesion: Societies with higher levels of happiness tend to have stronger social bonds and lower levels of conflict and crime.
  4. Environmental sustainability: Happier individuals may be more likely to engage in environmentally-friendly behaviors and support policies that promote sustainability.

By focusing on the factors that contribute to happiness and well-being, policymakers can develop strategies to improve the overall quality of life for their citizens. The Happiness Index provides a valuable tool for measuring progress and identifying areas where improvements can be made.

Short information

  • Abbreviation of Bhutan. BT.

    Bhutan is a landlocked country in South Asia, known for its unique political structure as a constitutional monarchy. It is also renowned for its rich cultural heritage, including the practice of Vajrayana Buddhism and traditional arts such as mask dances. Economically, Bhutan is significant for its focus on Gross National Happiness as a developmental indicator.

  • Bhutan is the only country in the world to measure its success based on Gross National Happiness (GNH) instead of Gross Domestic Product.
  • The national dress code in Bhutan requires all citizens to wear traditional clothing in public areas.
  • Bhutan is also known for its preservation of natural environment and commitment to maintaining a high percentage of forest coverage.
  • Bhutan – A Comprehensive Overview

    Early History: The Bhutanese tradition states that the country was inhabited as early as the 7th century by the people of the Monpa ethnic group. Buddhism was introduced in the 7th century by Guru Rinpoche, who traveled to Bhutan and established the first monasteries.

    Kingdoms and Empires: In the 17th century, the political and religious leader Ngawang Namgyal unified Bhutan into a nation-state. The Wangchuck hereditary monarchy was established in 1907 and continues to rule Bhutan today.

    Colonial Period: Bhutan was never formally colonized, but it maintained close ties with British India and was a protectorate of the British Empire from 1910 to 1949.

    Independence and Modern Era: Bhutan gained independence from British India in 1949 and became a member of the United Nations in 1971. The country underwent a gradual process of modernization and democratization, with the first national elections held in 2008.

    Current Political Situation: Bhutan is a constitutional monarchy with a democratic parliamentary system. The current monarch is King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, while the Prime Minister is Lotay Tshering, who leads the Druk Nyamrup Tshogpa party.

    International Relations: Bhutan maintains strong ties with India and has close diplomatic relations with several countries, including Japan, Thailand, and Singapore. It is a member of various international organizations, such as the United Nations, SAARC, and the Non-Aligned Movement.

    Human Development and Economy: Bhutan has a developing economy primarily based on agriculture, forestry, and hydropower. The country has made significant progress in human development, with a focus on the concept of Gross National Happiness (GNH) as a measure of well-being.

    Cultural Highlights: Bhutan is known for its unique culture, which is heavily influenced by Buddhist traditions. The country has a rich heritage of architecture, art, and festivals. The national language is Dzongkha, and the dominant religion is Vajrayana Buddhism.

    Bhutan’s main challenges include balancing economic development with environmental conservation, addressing social issues such as rural-urban disparities, and maintaining its cultural identity in the face of globalization. At the same time, the country’s focus on sustainable development and the pursuit of Gross National Happiness presents opportunities for innovative approaches to governance and societal well-being.

    Travel Tips for Bhutan

    • Best times to visit: Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November) for ideal weather and cultural festivals.
    • Cultural etiquette: Dress modestly, remove shoes before entering temples/homes, avoid public displays of affection.
    • Safety: Bhutan is generally safe, but take precautions in remote areas and during trekking.
    • Must-see landmarks: Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Punakha Dzong, Paro Taktsang, Gangtey Valley.
    • Culinary experiences: Try ema datshi (chili and cheese dish), momos (dumplings), and locally brewed ara (rice wine).

    Living in Bhutan

    • Cost of living: Moderate, with relatively low housing and utility costs but high import prices.
    • Housing: Options range from traditional Bhutanese houses to modern apartments in urban areas.
    • Healthcare: Public healthcare is available but limited, with private hospitals concentrated in major cities.
    • Education: Free primary and secondary education, with English as the medium of instruction.
    • Lifestyle: Relaxed pace of life, emphasis on cultural preservation and environmental conservation.
    • Cultural norms: Respect for elders, traditional dress on formal occasions, Buddhist values.
    • Legal requirements: Obtain the necessary visas and permits, follow local laws and regulations.

    Doing Business in Bhutan

    • Business culture: Emphasis on personal relationships, respect for hierarchy, and avoiding confrontation.
    • Economic climate: Growing economy focused on hydropower, tourism, and agriculture, with potential in IT and manufacturing.
    • Key industries: Hydropower, tourism, agriculture, construction, and mining.
    • Legal frameworks: Regulations on foreign investment, labor laws, and environmental protection.
    • Negotiation strategies: Build trust, be patient, understand local customs, and seek local partners.
    • Building relationships: Participate in social events, respect cultural norms, and cultivate long-term connections.

    Studying in Bhutan

    • Educational system: Primary, secondary, and tertiary education, with a mix of public and private institutions.
    • Top universities: Royal University of Bhutan, Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences, and Jigme Singye Wangchuck School of Law.
    • Student life: Vibrant student communities, cultural events, and outdoor activities.
    • Visa requirements: Apply for a student visa and meet the necessary academic and financial requirements.
    • Opportunities for international students: Scholarship programs, cultural exchange programs, and research opportunities.

Main facts

Location

Bhutan is a landlocked country located in the eastern Himalayas, situated between China and India. It is surrounded by the Indian states of Sikkim, West Bengal, Assam, and Arunachal Pradesh, as well as the Tibet Autonomous Region of China.

Map References

Bhutan is located in South Asia, within the eastern Himalayas.

Area – Comparative

Bhutan has an area of 38,394 square kilometers, slightly larger than the state of Maryland in the United States.

Land Boundaries and Border Countries

Bhutan shares a total land boundary of 1,136 kilometers. It borders China (477 km) and India (659 km).

Coastline

Bhutan is a landlocked country and does not have a coastline.

Maritime Claims

As a landlocked nation, Bhutan has no maritime claims.

Climate

Bhutan has a varied climate due to its diverse topography. The northern regions have an alpine climate, while the central valleys experience a cool, temperate climate. The southern foothills have a hot, humid subtropical climate.

Terrain

Bhutan’s terrain is dominated by the Himalayan mountain ranges, with steep slopes and deep valleys. The country’s landscapes include glaciers, alpine meadows, and subtropical plains.

Elevation Extremes

The highest point in Bhutan is Gangkhar Puensum at 7,570 meters, while the lowest point is the Drangme Chhu River at 97 meters.

Natural Resources

Bhutan’s natural resources include timber, hydropower, gypsum, and calcium carbide.

Major Bodies of Water

The major rivers in Bhutan are the Manas, Sankosh, Raidak, and Torsa, all of which flow into India. The country also has several glacial lakes, including Raphstreng Tso and Luggye Tsho.

Natural Hazards

Bhutan is prone to natural hazards such as earthquakes, glacial lake outburst floods, and flash floods caused by monsoon rains.

Geography – Notes

Bhutan is known for its efforts to protect the environment and promote sustainable development. The country has a unique policy of maintaining at least 60% of its land area under forest cover. Additionally, Bhutan is one of the world’s few remaining carbon-sink countries, absorbing more carbon dioxide than it emits.

  • Forest Area (% of land area): 72.50%. This is the percentage of a country’s total land area that is covered by natural or planted forests.
  • Co2 Emissions: 1,261. CO2 emissions refer to the release of carbon dioxide gas into the atmosphere, primarily from the burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) for energy production, transportation, and industrial processes.
  • Agricultural Land( %). 13.60%. Agricultural land refers to the share of land area that is arable and used for cultivating crops or raising livestock.
  • Geographic Coordinates:  27.51416290.433601.
  • Capital: The capital of Bhutan is  Thimphu
  • Major Cities:
    1. Thimphu – Population: 115,000
    2. Phuntsholing – Population: 27,000
    3. Punakha – Population: 6,000
  • Population: 727,145
  • Area(Km2): 38394
  • Population Density( P/Km²):20. This is the number of people living per square kilometer of land area in a given region or country.
  • Calling Code:975
  • Official Language(s):Bhutan is Dzongkha (official) 24%, Tibetan dialects 74%, other 2%.
  • Currency:

Main Economic Indicators

Bhutan is a small, landlocked economy in South Asia with a gross domestic product (GDP) of around $2.5 billion in 2019. The economy is heavily dependent on hydropower exports to India, tourism, and the government’s extensive investment in infrastructure and hydroelectric projects. The government aims to diversify the economy and reduce reliance on India through its “Economic Development Policy.” Key challenges include high unemployment, particularly among youth, a lack of skilled labor, and rising external debt.

Inflation Rate (Consumer Prices)

3.66% (2019 est.)
3.63% (2018 est.)
Source: CIA World Factbook

Credit Ratings

Fitch: Not rated
Moody’s: Not rated
Standard & Poor’s: Not rated

GDP – Composition by Sector of Origin

Agriculture: 16.2%
Industry: 41.6%
Services: 42.2% (2017 est.)

Key Agricultural and Industrial Products

Agricultural Products: Rice, corn, root crops, citrus, foodgrains
Industrial Products: Cement, wood products, processed fruits, alcoholic beverages, calcium carbide, tourism

Labor Force

Total Labor Force: 349,100 (2017 est.)
Ranking: 162nd in the world

Current Account Balance

-$347 million (2019 est.)
-$538 million (2018 est.)
Ranking: 175th in the world

Exports and Imports

Exports: $628.4 million (2019 est.)
Partners: India 59%, Bangladesh 8% (2017)
Commodities: Electricity, ferroalloys, cement, dolomite, timber
Imports: $1.038 billion (2019 est.)
Partners: India 82% (2017)
Commodities: Fuel and lubricants, airplanes, machinery and parts, rice

Reserves of Foreign Exchange and Gold

$1.181 billion (31 December 2019 est.)
Gold holdings: 719.14 kg (31 December 2018 est.)

  • GDP (Current US$):$2,446,674,101. It represents a country’s gross domestic product measured in current US dollars. Higher values indicate a larger economy and economic output.
  • Tax Revenue (% of GDP): 16.00%. It refers to the amount of tax revenue collected by the government, expressed as a percentage of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). Higher values indicate a higher tax burden relative to the size of the economy.
  • Total Tax Rate (% of commercial profits): 35.30%. This is the sum of all taxes payable by businesses, expressed as a percentage of their commercial profits. Higher values indicate a higher tax burden on businesses.
  • Gasoline Price. $0.98. It refers to the cost of one liter or gallon of gasoline/petrol. Higher values indicate more expensive gasoline prices for consumers and businesses.
  • Minimum wage. $0.32. It refers to the lowest legally mandated hourly wage that employers must pay their workers. Higher values indicate a higher minimum level of pay for low-wage workers.
  • Unemployment Rate (%): 2.34%. It represents the percentage of the labor force that is unemployed and actively seeking employment. Higher values indicate more joblessness in the economy.

Social Indicators

1. National Identity

Noun: Bhutanese

Adjective: Bhutanese

2. Ethnic Groups

Ngalop: 28%

Sharchop: 35%

Lhotsampa: 35%

3. Religions

Buddhism: 75%

Hinduism: 22%

Others: 3%

4. Age Structure

0-14 years: 24.7%

15-64 years: 69.2%

65 years and over: 6.1%

5. Dependency Ratios

Total Dependency Ratio: 44.2

Youth Dependency Ratio: 35.7

Elderly Dependency Ratio: 8.5

6. Median Age

Total: 28.1 years

Male: 27.6 years

Female: 28.6 years

7. Lifestyle Indicators

Obesity Rate: 6.4%

Alcohol Consumption: 3.8 liters per capita

Tobacco Use: 29.7% of adults

  • Life Expectancy at Birth: 71.5. Life Expectancy at Birth refers to the estimated average number of years a newborn is expected to live based on current mortality rates. Higher values indicate better health outcomes and living conditions in a country or region.
  • Literacy Rate (% of adults): 59.5%. It refers to the percentage of the population aged 15 and above who can read and write with understanding of a short simple statement about their everyday life. Higher literacy rates indicate better educational attainment within a population.
  • Birth Rate:17.26. Birth Rate is the total number of live births per 1,000 population in a given year. Higher birth rates indicate a larger share of the population being born each year.
  • Death Rate:6. Death Rate is the number of deaths per 1,000 population in a given year. Higher death rates indicate more people dying annually within a population.
  • Fertility Rate: 1.98. Fertility Rate is the average number of children a woman would have over her reproductive years based on current birth rates. Higher fertility rates indicate larger family sizes and population growth.
  • Internet Users (% of population): 50%. Internet Users (% of population) refers to the percentage of the total population in a country or region that has access to and uses the internet. Higher values indicate greater internet penetration and connectivity among the population.
  • Urban Population: 317,538. Urban Population refers to the percentage or number of people living in urban areas or cities within a country or region. Higher urban population values indicate greater urbanization and concentration of people in cities compared to rural areas.
  • Out of Pocket Health Expenditure (% of total health expenditure):19.80%. Out of Pocket Health Expenditure (% of total health expenditure) represents the portion of total health care costs that individuals pay directly out of their own pockets, rather than being covered by insurance or government programs. Higher values indicate greater personal financial burden for health care expenses.

Infrastructure and Services

Military and Security Forces

Bhutan’s military is composed of the Royal Bhutan Army, which serves as the country’s ground force, and the Royal Bodyguard, which is responsible for the security of the royal family and other high-ranking officials. The Bhutanese security apparatus also includes the Royal Bhutan Police and the Royal Bhutan Rangers, a paramilitary force tasked with border security and counter-insurgency operations.

Military Expenditures

Bhutan’s military spending as a percentage of GDP for the last five years:

2022: 1.5%

2021: 1.4%

2020: 1.3%

2019: 1.2%

2018: 1.1%

Bhutan’s military expenditure ranks among the lowest globally.

Personnel Strengths

Bhutan has a total active-duty military strength of approximately 16,000 personnel, primarily in the Royal Bhutan Army. The Royal Bhutan Police and Royal Bhutan Rangers have additional personnel dedicated to internal security and border protection.

Military Equipment Inventories and Acquisitions

Bhutan’s military equipment inventory is modest, primarily consisting of small arms and light weapons, as well as some transport vehicles and utility helicopters. The country relies on imports for most of its military hardware, including from India, its primary defense partner.

Military Service Age and Obligation

Bhutan has voluntary military service for citizens aged 18-28 years. There is no mandatory conscription, and the military is composed entirely of professional volunteers.

Military Deployments

Bhutan does not currently have any significant overseas military deployments. However, the country has contributed troops to United Nations peacekeeping missions in the past, including in Kuwait and Kosovo.

Strategic Military Notes

Bhutan’s defense strategy primarily focuses on territorial defense and maintaining internal security. The country’s military plays a limited role in international security initiatives but maintains close ties with India, with which it has a longstanding defense cooperation agreement. Bhutan is not a member of any major military alliances.

  • Armed Forces Size: 6000. Armed Forces Size refers to the total number of active personnel serving in a country’s military forces, including the army, navy, air force, and other branches. Higher values indicate a larger military presence and personnel.
  • Physicians per Thousand: Number of doctors per 1,000 people is 0.42
  • Population: Labor Force Participation (%): 66.70%. This is the percentage of the total population aged 15 and older that is economically active, meaning they are either employed or actively seeking employment. Higher values indicate a greater proportion of the working-age population engaged in the labor force.

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