Answer:
How to approach the question
- Introduction
- Write about recent World Happiness Index ranking briefly
- Body
- Write the reasons behind low rankings in India’s Global Happiness Index.
- Write how EI can be a major factor in enhancing happiness level among Indians.
- Conclusion
- Give appropriate conclusion in this regard
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Introduction
Happiness is the profound fulfilment derived from living a virtuous, morally upright life with a deep sense of satisfaction. India ranks 126th out of 136 countries in the World Happiness Report 2023, indicating that it is one of the least happy nations globally.
Body
Reasons behind low rankings in India’s World Happiness Index
- Economic inequality: With a large proportion of the population living in poverty while a small elite enjoy immense wealth. According to recent Oxfam data, India’s richest 1% own more than 40% of total wealth.
- Gender discrimination: With women often experiencing discrimination and limited access to education, employment opportunities, and decision-making roles. Global Gender Gap (GGG) Index for 2022 by WEF ranked India at 135 out of 146 countries.
- Social divisions and discrimination: India’s society is characterized by various divisions, including caste, religion, and ethnicity, leading to discrimination, social exclusion, and marginalization of certain groups.
- Growing mental health issues: The National Mental Health Survey found that around 150 million Indians needed active mental health interventions, but the country lacked the necessary resources.
- Environmental degradation: India faces significant environmental challenges, including air and water pollution, deforestation, and climate change. Such degradation impacts the overall well- being and quality of life of its citizens.
- Governance issues and corruption: Corruption and bureaucratic inefficiencies hinder equitable access to resources and services, erode trust in institutions, and undermine overall happiness. India ranks 85 in corruption perception index 2021.
- Communal and religious tensions: Instances of communal violence and religious conflicts like Delhi violence (2020), Manipur violence etc affect social harmony, posing significant challenges to the nation’s happiness and well-being.
EI can be a major factor in enhancing happiness level among Indians by strengthening
- Empathy and understanding: By cultivating empathy, individuals can better understand the struggles faced by marginalized communities, leading to collective efforts to address social inequality and upliftment.
- Effective communication: It enhances communication skills, promoting healthier and more meaningful interactions. A couple who possess EI can communicate their needs and concerns effectively, fostering a deeper marital satisfaction.
- Conflict resolution: It equips individuals with the ability to manage conflicts constructively. Resolving conflicts peacefully through dialogue and compromise can enhance happiness within families, communities, and workplaces.
- Authenticity and integrity: It encourages individuals to be true to themselves and act with integrity. A person who upholds honesty and transparency in their professional and personal relationships derives a sense of happiness.
- Emotional support: It fosters a culture of support and compassion. A friend who provides emotional support to someone experiencing a difficult time can significantly improve their happiness.
- Self-compassion: It emphasizes self-compassion, allowing individuals to treat themselves with kindness and understanding. Such a person experiences greater happiness and well-being, even in the face of personal setbacks.
- Social connection: Indians with high EI are more likely to build and maintain fulfilling relationships, contributing to their happiness. For instance, participating in community activities or volunteering can create a sense of belonging and fulfilment.
Conclusion
Going ahead, to promote happiness among Indians, policy measures like integrating emotional intelligence education in schools, providing training and resources for emotional well-being in workplaces, and implementing community-based programs that enhance emotional resilience and empathy skills are needed.
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