YK Poudel

With just three days to go, the Bhutan Innovation Forum (BIF) will host over 35 sessions and discussions focused on the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) between October 1 and 3.

Held at the Dungkar Dzong in Pangbisa, Paro, BIF brings together about 100 national and international speakers. This global initiative is dedicated to sustainable development and mindful entrepreneurship.

BIF unites international leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs to support Bhutan’s vision of a Mindfulness City. Through dynamic workshops, networking opportunities, and interactive sessions, the Forum promotes ethical practices, eco-friendly innovation, and cultural preservation.

The gathering aims to blend modern technology with Bhutanese traditions to drive holistic growth and foster environmental stewardship.

An impressive lineup of nine keynote speakers and over 90 national and international thought leaders will participate in the three-day programme. This diverse group includes philosophers, philanthropists, economists, authors, professors, journalists, directors, consultants, AI and legal experts, analysts, founders, and planners, among others.

BIF will kick off on October 1 with a chibdrel, jibi pao and marchang ceremony, followed by opening announcements from BBC News presenters Mark Lobel and Samantha Simmonds.

Prime Minister Dasho Tshering Tobgay will deliver a welcome address.

The first panel discussion, focused on creating a city of mindfulness in an ethical and sustainable manner, will feature Dzongsar Jamyang Khyentse Rinpoche and Matthieu Ricard. They will unveil the session on the theme “Mindfulness and Innovation: A Vision for Peace and Prosperity”.

On the first day, sessions will cover a range of topics, including mindfulness and compassion, creating a learning society and knowledge economy, building a mindfulness city, and transforming the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) from vision to action.

Following discussions will focus on peace, stability, and development; leadership and transformation; mindful innovation and entrepreneurship; mainstreaming mindfulness in early education; art and community in building a livable city; designing regenerative construction systems; and fostering a mindful economy and shared prosperity.

The second day will feature sessions centered on the theme of “Innovation and Entrepreneurship.”

Discussions will include the power of art in driving innovation, leveraging science and innovation for prosperity, the new era of research and education, big data analytics, investment in innovation and new ventures, attracting global talent and fostering entrepreneurship, steering digital transformation, identifying new business opportunities in Bhutan, blockchain and decentralised AI, the world of AI and augmented reality, and the future of banking and credit, as well as AI and innovation in biomedical science.

On the final day, discussions will focus on “Entrepreneurship and Sustainability”, covering topics such as managing climate risks and promoting sustainability, minerals and energy transition, and addressing South Asia’s energy needs by harnessing Bhutan’s renewable energy resources. Additional sessions will explore Brand Bhutan, carbon-linked bonds, monetising carbon offsets, and sustainable investment in the country.

The forum will also offer exclusive networking and collaboration opportunities for like-minded futurists and industry leaders to foster sustainable innovation.

His Majesty The King announced the establishment of the Gelephu Mindfulness City on December 17, 2023. This initiative aims to transform Bhutan’s economy while enhancing its engagement in international markets and generating future opportunities for the Bhutanese people.

The GMC will integrate civil infrastructure, green technologies, and mindful innovation to create a community rooted in harmony, well-being, and happiness. It represents an innovative urban development project that aligns economic growth with the principles of mindfulness, holistic living, and sustainability.

Strategically located at the intersection of South Asia, ASEAN, and China, the Gelephu Mindfulness City spans over 2,500 square kilometers in and around Gelephu, Sarpang Dzongkhag. This positioning allows GMC to capitalize on Bhutan’s commitment to sustainable development, its rich cultural heritage, and its robust governance framework, establishing it as a global leader in mindful and sustainable urban development.

The GMC will serve as a sanctuary for global businesses and professionals seeking to integrate sustainability, spiritual well-being, and commercial success. The development will adhere to the philosophy of “Building with Nature,” ensuring that structures harmoniously blend with their pristine surroundings.

The GMC will focus on seven core economic clusters: spirituality, health and wellness, education and knowledge, green energy and technology industries, finance, agritech and forestry, and airport economy.

Organised by Druk Holding and Investments and the Global Algorithmic Institute, BIF has attracted a significant number of participants, both Bhutanese and international.

With limited seating at the venue, only 450 Bhutanese and 500 international participants will be able to attend the forum in person.