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Bhutan's Mindfulness City Plan

Bhutan's ambitious plan to build a Mindfulness City, focusing on well-being and sustainable economic growth.

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United Kingdom

InvestmentEconomic GrowthIndo PacificSustainable DevelopmentMindfulnessBhutan

Gelephu Mindfulness City (Gmc)The Independent

Lotay TsheringKing Jigme Khesar Namgyal WangchuckRabsel DorjiSurya Raj Acharya

What is the main purpose of Bhutan's planned Mindfulness City?: Bhutan plans to build a Mindfulness City, Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC), spanning over 2,500 sq km. It will promote mindfulness, well-being, and sustainable development, aiming to attract investment and create jobs.
What is the city's administrative status and its economic goals?: GMC will have separate laws and operate as a special administrative region, aiming to become an economic corridor linking South Asia to Southeast Asia. It will focus on sectors like finance, tourism, green energy, and technology.
What are some of the potential challenges for the city's development?: Concerns exist regarding connectivity challenges for the landlocked country and its ability to attract international investors, as success depends on factors outside Bhutan's direct control.
How will the city be funded and what is its projected timeline for completion?: The city's development will be funded by a $100 million bond issue and private investment in infrastructure. It's expected to be completed in 21 years and house over a million people upon completion.
What are the core principles behind the project and which countries support it?: The project is based on Bhutan's Buddhist heritage and its Gross National Happiness (GNH) index, incorporating principles of mindfulness, well-being, and environmental sustainability. India supports the project and plans to improve connectivity.

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