September 23 , 2012, 09:51 IST
India has adopted since Nehru Era, the development model of the West. GDP growth became the barometer of the health of the economy. We talk about GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT(GDP) and not GROSS DOMESTIC HAPPINESS (GDH). Bhutan has adopted the later model and is a happy Nation now.The Western model beliefs on the exploitation of the resources for the welfare of the citizens. But the East Model believes in reducing consumption, lesser use of natural resources and that will bring GDH. Our Rishis always told people to protect the environment. The Western development Model has increased consumption of petroleum products ( 80% of our petroluem need is imported) and India is suffering as it is increasing its energy demand. We have to revert back to the Eastern model of growth. But turning back from western model to Eastern model at this hour is very difficult and critical. But their is no way out. Let us learn from Bhutan even it be a small Nation.