Mizoram’s social structure also contributes to the happiness of his youth.

Aizawal (Mizoram):

Mizoram has been declared the happiest state in the country according to a study conducted by Rajesh K Pillania, Professor of Strategy at Gurugram’s Management Development Institute.

According to a report, the state, which is the second in India to achieve 100 percent literacy, offers students opportunities for growth even in the most difficult circumstances.

“The Mizoram Happiness Index is based on six parameters including family relationships, work-related problems, social issues and philanthropy, religion, the effect of COVID-19 on happiness, and physical and mentally,” the report says.

“A student at the Mizo Government High School (GMHS) in Aizawl, Mizoram, has had to face many hardships since his father abandoned his family when he was young. Despite this, he remains optimistic and excels in his studies. He hopes to become a chartered accountant or sit for civil service exams if his first option doesn’t work out,” the report said.

Similarly, a student in Class 10 at GMHS aspires to join the National Defense Academy (NDA). His father works in a milk factory and his mother is a housewife. They are both hopeful about their prospects because of their school.

“Our teachers are our best friends, we are not afraid or shy to share anything with them,” said one student. Mizoram teachers meet regularly with students and their parents to address any issues they may be facing.

Mizoram’s social structure also contributes to the happiness of his youth. “It is education that contributes to whether young people are happy or not, we are a casteless society. Also, the pressure from parents for studies is less here,” said Sister Lalrinmawii Khiangte, a teacher at Eben-ezer Boarding School, a private school in the state.

The report further said that all children in the Mizo community, regardless of their gender, start earning money early.

“No task is considered too small and young people generally find employment around the age of 16 or 17. This is encouraged and there is no discrimination between girls and boys,” she said.

Mizoram has its fair share of broken families, but having plenty of peers in similar situations, working mothers, and financial independence from a young age means children aren’t left stranded. “When both sexes are taught to earn a living and neither is dependent on the other, why should a couple continue to live together in an unsanitary environment?” Khiangte asked.

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