The latest World Happiness Report has named Finland as the happiest country in the world for the seventh year in a row. India, on the other hand, was ranked 126th out of 143 nations, behind countries like Libya and Iraq. The report also noted that older people tend to have higher life satisfaction in India, while the young are the happiest group. The United States and Germany have dropped out of the top 20 for the first time in the report's history.
Finland Triumphs as Happiest Nation for a Record Seventh Year
In a recent announcement that has resonated worldwide, Finland has once again emerged as the undisputed champion of happiness, retaining its esteemed position as the world's happiest country for the seventh consecutive year. This extraordinary achievement, hailed by the 2023 World Happiness Report, is a testament to Finland's unwavering commitment to fostering a society that prioritizes well-being.
India's Standing in Global Happiness Rankings
While Finland basks in the limelight, India finds itself at the other end of the happiness spectrum. The World Happiness Report paints a sobering picture, ranking India 126th out of 143 nations surveyed. This unfortunate position places India behind countries such as Libya and Iraq, highlighting the need for urgent action to address well-being concerns within the nation.
Factors Influencing Happiness in India
According to the report's analysis, older individuals in India tend to exhibit higher levels of life satisfaction compared to their younger counterparts. This observation points to a potential generational divide in happiness levels, with elders finding solace in traditional values and community support, while the youth grapples with challenges such as unemployment and economic insecurity.
Global Shifts in Happiness Rankings
The World Happiness Report also unveiled some notable shifts in the global happiness rankings. For the first time since the report's inception, the United States and Germany have fallen out of the top 20, underscoring the evolving nature of factors influencing happiness across nations.
Top 5 FAQs Related to Finland's Happiness and India's Standing
Q1: What are the key factors contributing to Finland's consistent happiness ranking? A1: Finland's success is attributed to a combination of factors, including high levels of social trust, a robust welfare system, and a strong sense of community.
Q2: What are the challenges facing India in improving its happiness ranking? A2: India faces numerous challenges, including poverty, inequality, environmental pollution, and a lack of access to quality education and healthcare.
Q3: How can India learn from Finland's approach to happiness? A3: India can draw inspiration from Finland's emphasis on social cohesion, sustainable living, and investing in citizens' well-being.
Q4: What can individuals do to enhance their own happiness? A4: Individuals can engage in activities that bring them joy, foster meaningful connections, practice gratitude, and prioritize self-care.
Q5: How will the upcoming elections in India impact happiness levels? A5: Elections can influence happiness levels by affecting policies and programs that impact citizens' well-being, such as economic stability, social inequality, and access to essential services.
In a historic first, India will host the International Cooperative Alliance's global conference and General Assembly, where Prime Minister Modi will launch the 'United Nations International Year of Cooperatives 2025'. The event will be held in New Delhi from November 25-30 and will see over 3,000 delegates, including esteemed guests from Bhutan and Fiji. Despite challenges, the event will showcase India's commitment to the global cooperative movement and highlight the importance of cooperation in achieving sustainable development goals.
In a surprising turn of events, Kenyan President William Ruto has cancelled two major deals with India's Adani Group after its founder was indicted in the US for corruption. The deals, worth nearly $2 billion, included a 30-year lease for control of the country's main airport and a partnership to construct power transmission lines. Ruto cited "new information" from investigative agencies and partner nations as the reason for the cancellation, drawing thunderous applause from lawmakers in his state of the nation address. The move has sparked concerns about transparency and value for money in these deals, which have faced criticism from politicians and the public.
The Melanesian Spearhead Group Security Strategic Working Group, comprising representatives from all MSG member states, has successfully completed their sixth workshop meeting in Honiara last week. They have discussed the outcomes of their consultations with NGOs and CSOs in each member country, and agreed on the next steps to finalize the MSG Peace and Security Strategy. This is seen as a significant step for the sub-region in facing common threats, and the finalized report will be tabled at the upcoming Police Commissioner's and Police Minister's Meeting in Indonesia next year.
A video claiming to show Indian and Chinese armed forces chanting ‘Jai Shri Ram’ amid the recent disengagement at the Line of Actual Control in Ladakh has been circulating on social media. However, the truth is that the video is not recent and has been on the internet since January 2024. It was originally shared as footage of Indian Army personnel chanting the slogan after the consecration of the idol of Hindu deity Ram at Ayodhya’s Ram Mandir. A keyword search led to several news reports from January 2024, clarifying that the video is not recent and its authenticity has not been verified.
A group of foreign tourists in Vang Vieng, Laos fell ill after a night out on November 12th, possibly from drinking tainted alcohol. As of now, five deaths have been confirmed, including a British lawyer identified as Simone White and a young Australian woman. The Australian Prime Minister has expressed his condolences for the tragic loss of Bianca Jones and hopes for the recovery of her friend, Holly Bowles. Western government officials are supporting the families of the victims and urging caution for travelers in the popular backpacking destination.
Laishram Herojit, a low-level government worker, has appealed for the safe return of his family who went missing after an encounter between suspected Kuki insurgents and security forces in Manipur. Two women, including Herojit's wife, and an eight-year-old child are among the six people who went missing. Herojit has called for the release of his innocent family and has appealed to any group that may be holding them hostage to return them unharmed. He recalls getting a call from his wife during the violence, which later got disconnected, and a Bengali friend later informed him that they were taken away in a boat.
The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his former Defence Minister, and two Hamas officials for war crimes and crimes against humanity. Despite rejection from Mr. Netanyahu's office, the court's decision highlights international concern over the 13-month war in Gaza and the 2023 attack on Israel. While the warrants may limit the suspects' movements, the practical implications are limited as Israel and the US are not members of the court.
Guyana's President Dr. Irfaan Ali, in a ceremony at the State House, conferred upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi the country's highest civilian honour, the 'Order of Excellence'. Modi, who is on a three-nation tour, expressed his gratitude and dedicated the honour to India's 1.4 billion people. This recognition is a testament to India's strong commitment towards deepening friendship with Guyana and demonstrates the country's unbiased approach towards international relations.
As the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Guyana in 56 years, PM Modi's arrival marks a momentous occasion for the community. The Indian diaspora, which makes up over 40% of Guyana's population, eagerly awaits the world leader and shanti-doot who strives to unite the world and propel India into its golden age. PM Modi's visit marks a significant moment for the Indian community, deeply rooted in their traditions and eagerly showcasing their vibrant culture to welcome the Prime Minister. During this visit, PM Modi will also co-chair the second India-CARICOM Summit with the Prime Minister of Grenada, highlighting the importance of regional collaboration.
In a move to slow Russian advances in Ukraine, US President Joe Biden has approved the provision of anti-personnel mines to the Ukrainian military. This comes as reports state that North Korean troops have joined Russian marines and airborne units in battles throughout the country. The addition of anti-personnel mines marks a new level of assistance from the US in the ongoing conflict, with the mines being more deadly and longer-lasting than the previously provided anti-tank mines. Meanwhile, Ukraine's air defence units are actively working to repel a Russian air attack on the capital city of Kyiv.