Why this matters now
For Prelims this is a classic “who publishes which index” item; for Mains/essay it is a hook on well-being versus GDP. It refreshes every year (released around 20 March, the International Day of Happiness), so always cite the latest edition and India’s current position.
Who publishes it
The report is produced by the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) in partnership with Gallup and the Oxford Wellbeing Research Centre (with an editorial board of independent experts). It draws on the Gallup World Poll.
How happiness is measured
The core metric is the Cantril ladder: respondents rate their current life on a 0-10 scale (0 = worst possible life, 10 = best). Countries are ranked on the three-year average of these scores. The report then explains the scores using six factors:
- GDP per capita;
- Social support;
- Healthy life expectancy;
- Freedom to make life choices;
- Generosity;
- Perceptions of corruption.
These factors explain the ranking; they are not added up to produce it.
India’s rank and the global picture
In the 2025 report, Finland was first, followed by other Nordic and Western European countries. India ranked around 118 out of 147 countries — low relative to its economic size, reflecting weaker self-reported well-being on social-support and freedom measures. (Exact rank shifts each year; always check the latest edition.)
UPSC angle
For Prelims, remember publisher (SDSN + Gallup + Oxford), the Cantril ladder, and the six explanatory factors. This is an annual page — update India’s rank and the topper each year.
Frequently asked questions
Who publishes the World Happiness Report?
The UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) with Gallup and the Oxford Wellbeing Research Centre, using Gallup World Poll data.
How is happiness measured in the report?
By the Cantril ladder — respondents rate their life from 0 to 10. Rankings use a three-year average, explained by six factors: GDP per capita, social support, healthy life expectancy, freedom, generosity and perceptions of corruption.
What was India’s rank in the World Happiness Report 2025?
India ranked around 118 out of 147 countries in 2025. (The exact position changes each year.)
Which country is the happiest?
Finland topped the 2025 report — its eighth consecutive year at number one.