New York: In the Global List of the happiest nations, India was ranked 118th out of 156 countries. India has come down one slot as compared to the previous year. Hence, failing to make any improvement.

The World Happiness Report 2016 was published by the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) and the Earth Institute at Columbia University. The report takes into account GDP per capita, life expectancy, social support and freedom to make choices.

The list is topped by Denmark followed by Switzerland, Iceland, Norway and Finland. Countries like Syria, Afghanistan, Madagascar, Liberia & Burundi were noted as the least happiest countries.

According to the report, India was among the 10 countries witnessing the largest happiness decline along with Venezuela, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Yemen & Botswana.

For the first time, the report, released on UN Happiness day March 20 indicates the measurement and consequences of inequalities in well-being of different nations and regions of the world. Previously, there have been arguments that happiness proves to be a better indicator of people's welfare in comparison to income, poverty, education, health and a strong government.

The report reflects a new demand for greater attention to happiness as part of government's policies. It provides evidence on how to achieve social well-being which is not money alone but also includes good health, fairness and honesty.

The report also exhibits that a nation's key challenge is to make sure that the government polices are designed and delivered in such a manner that it enriches the social framework and teach the power of empathy to the present and future generations. (Inputs from Agencies)