Assessment of the cost in obtaining citizenship in Sindhupalchok district, nepal

Abstract

Citizenship is not merely a legal status but a fundamental right, crucial for accessing various social services and political participation. This study examines the financial implications and procedural intricacies associated with obtaining citizenship in Sindhupalchok District, Nepal. The cost and complexities involved in obtaining citizenship can present significant barriers, particularly in rural and marginalized communities. In the purview, the study questions examine the overall financial and opportunity cost associated with citizenship receiver residing in seven different local levels of Sindhupalchok district which are at the proximity and remote area from the District Administration Office (DAO). The objective of the study was to estimate the direct financial costs and opportunity cost associated with obtaining citizenship and compare those costs on the basis of their proximity and remoteness from the District Administration Office. The study used descriptive statistics, direct and opportunity cost estimation method, and t-test method. The study employed cross sectional data sets collected from survey on the sample of 385 in the Chautara sangachokgadhi Municipallity and other six local levels of Sindhuplachok district. The respondents were asked about the socio-economic conditions, citizenship obtaining process, obstacles and hurdles faced, costs associated, and the time invested in citizenship. The majority of the respondents were Janajatis and they followed Buddhism. Most of the respondents were middle income group. The average cost of obtaining citizenship was highest for Bhotekoshi municipality i.e. NRs 4353 while it was lowest for Chautra Sangachokgadhi municipality. There were no significant differences in direct, indirect and opportunity cost based on the type of citizenship, gender of the respondents, and economic status. However, there was significant differences for direct and indirect cost of male and female, and depending on the distance. Significant differences in direct and indirect expenses between various local entities indicate systemic obstacles and inefficiencies. Since, Sindhupalchok district is geographically larger and also has diverse and complex topography, it would be easier to provide important public services such as citizenship form different regional center such as Melamchi and Barahbishe. A piloting of this decentralization is highly recommended. Keywords: Direct cost, indirect cost, opportunity cost, average cost, citizenship, social services