Sociology
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Item Social Wellbeing and Happiness among Ageing Population of Kirtipur Municipality, Kathmandu(2024) Kharel, Jyoti; Tika Ram GautamSocial wellbeing refers to the quality of relationship and interaction of a person with others in society including sense of belonging and the level of satisfaction with their social interaction and happiness is a positive emotional state where a person feels joy and satisfaction with their life, which are the important factors helping to foster healthy and happy lives of growing aging population in Nepal. This study aims to explore the status and correlation of social wellbeing and happiness among ageing population using a mixed-method approach including surveys and interviews integrated through Social Wellbeing Standards (Keyes, 1998) and Oxford Happiness Questionnaires (Hills and Argyle, 2002). Purposive sampling design has been used to identify and select the sample population of 120 individuals over 60 years of age among which 55.8% are males and 44.2% are females of Kirtipur Municipality, ward number-10, Kathmandu, Nepal. The data collected has been analyzed using SPSS and interpreted with Karl Pearson’s correlation coefficient, independent sample t-test and F-test (ANOVA). The study has revealed most of the aging population (47%) is with moderate social wellbeing and least of the aging populations (18%) are with higher social wellbeing. The most of the aging population of this study are with moderate happiness (31.7%) and least of the aging populations (18.3%) are found with low happiness. The correlation between the social wellbeing and happiness has been found positively correlated (r=0.277) indicating the positive connectivity of social wellbeing and happiness. The comparison of mean value between social wellbeing and gender is significantly different (p=0.001) between males (3.35±0.81) and females (2.84±0.80) indicating males have more social wellbeing than females. The mean value difference between social wellbeing and migration status of the aging population has revealed the significance difference (p=0.000) between locals (3.48±0.76) and migrants (2.82±0.80) indicating locals have more social wellbeing status than the migrants. The mean value difference among the caste groups with Brahmin/Chhetri, Janajati and Dalits and social wellbeing is obtained significantly different (p=0.000) with Dalits having higher level of social wellbeing (3.82±0.63) compared to Brahmin/Chhetri (2.88±0.80) and Janajati (3.37±0.80). The mean value difference among the social security allowance receiver is found significantly different (p=0.001) with the higher social wellbeing of the pension receivers (3.4±0.80) than ageing allowance receiver (3.02±0.82) and non-receivers (2.52±0.68). The mean value difference among the past occupation variables with social wellbeing is found significantly different (p=0.024) having respondents with local works as past occupation with higher level of social wellbeing (3.6±0.75) compared to government jobs (3.44± 0.81), agriculture (3.04±0.82), foreign employment (3.16±0.78), INGO’s/NGOs (3.24±0.82), local business (2.81±0.68) and housewives (2.77±0.84) with least social wellbeing status. The study has outlined the most of the respondents with moderate happiness (31.7%) and least of the respondents are found with low happiness (18.3%). The comparison of mean value between happiness and gender is significantly different (p=0.03) between males (4.29 ±0.15) and females (3.77 ±0.17) indicating males have higher level of happiness compared to the females. Respondents with higher level of education are found significantly happier (p=0.011) with the mean and standard deviation (4.82±1.36) compared to Illiterate (3.85±1.16), Secondary Level of education (4.23±1.31) and primary level of education (3.53±1.76) with least happiness. The comparison of mean value among the social security with happiness allowance receivers has been obtained significantly different (p=0.045) with the mean and standard deviation value of (4.49±1.33) compared aging allowance receivers (3.86±1.24) and non-receivers (3.83±1.26) with least happiness among the groups. Male found with higher social wellbeing and happiness is due to traditional patriarchal Nepalese society where men hold more authority in decision making, education, employment and property ownership and it fosters their social wellbeing and happiness. Lack of access to education, employment, opportunity in social activity and freedom to community gatherings females have lower social wellbeing and happiness compared to males. Locals have high level of social integration, sense of belongingness and connectedness to enhance their social wellbeing and migrants find hard to adjust inn different culture and tradition which hinders their social wellbeing. The caste groups with higher social wellbeing have been contributed by their local status, strong social network, sense of belongingness, supportive friends and neighbors, shared responsibilities and recipient of social security allowance in the form of pension and ageing allowance. Past occupation contributed to the affirmation in the society though the dignity of the professions and networks created along with the financial security due to intergenerational continuity of the occupation and recipient of the pension. Higher the education more confirmed is the happiness status since the education provided the broad sense of adaptation, sense of financial autonomy and contribution to the society through the community programs. The social security measures like ageing allowance and pensions provide the financial regularity and stability, dignity and reduced dependency. The familial connectedness, community engagement programs, ageing friendly urban planning and development, formation of Retired Professional Clubs (RPC) to utilize the skills, knowledge and experiences, awareness programs including digital literacy and technological interferences, expansion and continuation of social security schemes by Government of Nepal and Social Welfare Programs including engagement of aging population in academic institution through book free day, community based programs like bhajan/kirtan, mediation, counseling etc. by provincial and local governments are envisioned interventions required for the better social wellbeing and happiness of aging population.Item State of Foreign Labour Migration in Western Hill of Nepal: A Case Study of Baitadi(2025) Manahari Dhakal; Prabin Prakash BistaThis study explores the impact of remittances on rural women's empowerment, highlighting their financial independence, decision-making roles, and social participation. Remittances have significantly improved household income, enabling women to manage finances, invest in businesses, and contribute to family well-being. However, challenges persist, including societal gender norms, emotional stress due to family separation, and limited local employment opportunities. The study emphasizes the need for enhanced financial literacy, entrepreneurship training, and policy interventions to maximize the benefits of remittances. By addressing these challenges, remittances can serve as a catalyst for long-term empowerment, fostering economic stability and gender equality in rural communities. Keywords: Women Empowerment, equality, remittance, decision makingItem Social capital and practice of Housing loan from banks in Kathmandu(2025) Gartaula, Milan Raj; Kailash Nath PyakuryalSocial capital is a critical component of social interaction and it influences other non-social aspects of day-to-day life as well. This dissertation is an effort to examine the influence of social capital on housing loan from banks, which is essentially understood to be a purely economic undertaking. Banking is frequently regarded as an economic institution, yet the non-economic dimensions of the banking sector are gaining increasing attention in academic discourse. A key question arises: How does social capital, a non-economic aspect, influence the banking landscape in Nepal? Social capital refers to the social resources gained through relationships and networks in a social setting. While sociologists have produced various findings on social capital, this dissertation aims to explore its specific interpretation and relevance within the context of the Nepalese economy. The first objective of the study was to investigate the provisions of social capital in banks in Kathmandu. The next objective was to describe how social capital is embedded in the economic relationships between banks and borrowers, particularly in obtaining loan facilities. The final objective was to elucidate the role that social capital plays in securing housing loans. It was found that almost all banks and financial institutions offering housing loans in Kathmandu incorporate elements of social capital, with some similarities and differences in their implementation. Social capital manifests differently across various demographic factors, including education, health, family size, and monthly income, influencing the economic relationships between banks and borrowers. Subsequent analysis shows that aspects of borrowers' social capital significantly affect key housing loan parameters: the loan volume, repayment duration, and interest rates. The social dimensions of banking represent a critical non-economic phenomenon that influences banking practices. These social attributes vary based on time and regional settings. Nepal, with its rich tapestry of diverse cultures and varying levels of social capital, presents a unique context for examining these phenomena. Housing loans are a primary instrument through which banks operate, encompassing two categories: retail and real-estate housing loans. In Nepal, banks heavily invest in retail housing loans, which come with specific policies influenced by factors such as age, health, gender, education, professional background, family size, and monthly income. These seven variables are central to the study's exploration of social capital's impact on banking. For this dissertation, a purposive sample of 700 borrowers from selected banks was analyzed using both qualitative and quantitative methods to test multiple hypotheses. The study focused on banks with additional housing loan provisions linked to social capital components like age, family size, salary, and gender. Eleven financial institutions were identified for their notable provisions in these areas, with approximately 700 individuals reported as having taken out housing loans in the previous year. The research findings reveal that all banks and financial institutions in Kathmandu incorporate provisions based on social capital, with some similarities in policy between different banks. However, respondents exhibit varying interpretations of social capital in relation to housing loans. Dependent variables analyzed include loan duration, interest rates, and loan amounts, while independent variables encompass age, gender, health status, education, professional history, monthly income, and family size. Statistical analyses, including p-tests, established the significance of associations among these variables, though not in all cases. While these findings may not universally apply across all global contexts or timelines, this dissertation offers valuable insights into the impact of social capital in economic domains, particularly regarding housing loans. Theoretically, the concept of embeddedness has gained traction as a conventional idea; this dissertation enriches that notion by situating it within the unique socio-economic landscape of Nepal.Item Community-Based Flood Management (A Case Study of Tharu Community in the riverbank area of ward 19, Dhangadhi Sub-Metropolitan City(2025) Lawati, Anjali Limbu; Tika Ram GautamThis study investigates community flood disaster management within the Tharu riverbank community of Kheda Tole, Ward 19, Dhangadhi Sub-Metropolitan City, Nepal. As one of the most flood-prone areas along the Mohana River, this community practices indigenous knowledge systems deeply rooted in its social, ecological, and agricultural practices for flood preparedness. The research draws on a qualitative case study approach, using in- depth interviews with residents to explore how the Tharu people understand and respond to recurring flood disasters. Framed through the social constructionist lens, the study examines how lived experiences and collective memory inform community-based strategies of resilience. The research site is also part of an external disaster risk reduction (DRR) intervention program. This intersection makes it an ideal location to observe how traditional knowledge is adapted, preserved, or challenged by modern institutional practices. The findings show that the community has enhanced its flood preparedness by integrating traditional and externally introduced knowledge. Similarly, Bhalmansa (Tharu indigenous social leader) and change makers for DRR have adapted an advocacy role for the benefit of their community. The Samudayik Kosh (Community Savings) plays a key role in post-disaster recovery. While the community has effectively protected residential areas, efforts to safeguard agricultural land remain inconsistent and divided. This research contributes to broader understandings of community-based flood management and highlights the importance of recognizing indigenous knowledge systems in shaping equitable and effective DRR strategies.Item काठमाडाैं उपत्यकामा सहकारी संस्थामा आएकाे समस्याले सन्चालककाे सामाजिक सम्बन्धमा पारेकाे प्रभाव(2081) पुडासैनी, मन्जु; सुरेन्द्र मिश्रAvailable in fulltextItem Social Capital and Performance of Cooperatives in Kathmandu(2025) Dhakal, Ishwar; Surendra MishraThis study examines the role of social capital in the success of savings and credit cooperatives in Nepal, focusing on four case studies: Thankot Mahila, Samudayik, Aayam, and Chandragiri cooperatives. Despite their growing importance in financial inclusion, many cooperatives struggle with governance inefficiencies, gender disparities, and financial sustainability. This research addresses a critical gap by analyzing how trust, networks, reciprocity, and shared norms contribute to cooperative performance while highlighting persistent challenges in equitable representation. Using a qualitative case study approach, the study combines financial data analysis (2079-2081), unstructured interviews with 16 stakeholders including board of members, managers, and members, and focus group discussions (FGDs) with 16 members. Thematic analysis and comparative financial metrics reveal key insights: (1) Cooperatives with balanced gender representation (e.g., Samudayik) achieve stronger financial outcomes (54% capital growth) than male-dominated models; (2) Externally networked cooperatives demonstrate greater resilience than locally insular ones; and (3) Institutionalized social capital—particularly transparent governance and member participation—correlates with long-term member loyalty (average 12 years). This study demonstrates that social capital serves as the bedrock of cooperative success, operating through four interconnected mechanisms that distinguish member driven finance from conventional banking models. Trust, institutionalized through transparent policies and long-term member relationships, reduces transaction costs and fosters financial resilience—evident in cooperatives like Samudayik, where high trust correlates with 54% capital growth. Networks determine institutional adaptability; externally connected cooperatives access bridging capital for innovation, while locally embedded models like Thankot Mahila excel in bonding capital for targeted inclusion. Crucially, reciprocity transforms financial transactions into mutual commitments. The save-to-borrow systems observed across cases create inter generational solidarity, ensuring sustainability. Keywords: Social capital, cooperatives, gender governance, financial inclusion.Item Livelihood Diversification and Poverty Reduction in Panchkhal Municipality, Kavre(2025) Adhikari, Amit; Tikaram GautamThis study explores the relationship between livelihood diversification and poverty reduction in Panchkhal Municipality, Kavre, with a focus on how households adapt to changing socio-economic conditions by engaging in multiple livelihood strategies. Livelihood diversification is defined as the process by which rural families construct a diverse portfolio of activities and social support capabilities in order to survive and to improve their standards of living. Livelihood diversification, the process of engaging in varied income-generating activities, has increasingly become survival strategy for rural and semi-urban households in Nepal. As traditional subsistence farming proves inadequate to meet growing needs, diversification into non-farm, off-farm, and service-oriented occupations is becoming more prominent. This study explores the key livelihood diversification strategies employed by households, and captures how these shifts are associated with poverty reduction. A mixed-methods approach was used, combining quantitative surveys of 101 households and qualitative interviews with nine respondents consisting of local residents, cooperative members, and key informants. The research employed purposive sampling to ensure inclusion of households with varied economic backgrounds and experiences in diversification. Data were analyzed through descriptive statistics, thematically, and field-based interpretation. This explored how households diversify their income sources through agriculture, business, employment, and remittances. Findings highlight the crucial role of diversified livelihoods in enhancing economic stability, improving living standards, and providing better access to education and healthcare. Findings show that households in Panchkhal have increasingly moved beyond traditional farming to embrace activities such as vegetable farming, animal husbandry, small-scale trade, foreign employment, and engagement in cooperatives and small businesses. Access to credit, local market integration, and skill development programs were found to be enabling factors. However, challenges such as lack of capital, inadequate skills, small market size, and limited access to technology continue to hinder broader diversification. By using both descriptive statistics and inferential statistics such as Chi-square test and ANOVA, the study concludes that livelihood diversification has played a significant role in reducing household poverty by increasing income stability, improving access to education and health services, and enhancing food security. Nevertheless, its success depends on structural support, access to resources, and institutional linkages. Despite significant challenges such as lack of capital, skills, and access to financial services, the community demonstrates resilience and adaptability. Family and community support, including financial assistance and knowledge sharing, significantly contribute to these efforts. The study underscores the importance of social capital, consistent with Bourdieu's theory, in facilitating livelihood diversification. Respondents' future plans indicate a proactive approach to ensuring long-term economic stability through business expansion, agricultural mechanization, and investment in income-generating activities. The research concludes that addressing the challenges through improved access to finance, training, and infrastructure is essential for supporting households in their diversification efforts. This research contributes to understanding how localized strategies can foster economic resilience, and highlights the need for targeted interventions in training, financial access, and market development to further enhance the livelihood prospects of semi-urban communities in Nepal. Key Words: livelihood diversification, livelihood strategies, social capital, povertyItem Discourse analysis on social inclusion narratives in nepal's Bureaucracy(2025) Mijar, Madhu; Pasang SherpaThis study explores the narratives surrounding social inclusion within Nepal's bureaucracy through a critical discourse analysis (CDA) framework, drawing on the theories of Michel Foucault, Norman Fairclough, and Teun A. van Dijk. The primary aim of this study was to examine how policy and legal frameworks influenced social inclusion practices within Nepal's bureaucratic structures. By analyzing official discourse, this research investigated how bureaucratic actors construct and interpret social inclusion policies and their implications for marginalized groups in Nepal, including women, ethnic minorities, and lower-caste communities. The study has applied the theory developed by Foucault who has focused on the ideas of power, knowledge, governmentality, and how social inclusion is constructed and regulated within state institutions. Foucault's notion of “regimes of practice” was useful in analyzing how bureaucratic actors internalize and reproduce certain discourses around social inclusion. Another theory developed by Fairclough who has discussed critical discourse analysis approach, focusing on how language constructs power relations and ideologies within institutional settings. Fairclough’s three-dimensional framework (text, discursive practice, and social practice) has helped to examine both the text of policy documents and the broader social practices that influence inclusion. Also van Dijk’s model of discourse as a representation of social cognition has been applied to understand the role of narratives in shaping public opinion and attitudes toward social inclusion, as well as how power and ideology are embedded in those narratives. Thus, utilizing Foucault's concepts of power and knowledge and governmentality, Fairclough’s three-dimensional approach to discourse, and van Dijk’s theory of ideological discourse, this study critically examined the role of discourse in shaping and reproducing power relations within bureaucratic settings. The analysis highlighted how bureaucratic actors, such as civil servants and policymakers, both reflect and challenge prevailing social hierarchies in their interpretations of inclusion policies. Additionally, the study delved into the influence of power dynamics within the bureaucracy, exploring how these dynamics impacted the development and implementation of social inclusion policies, as well as the broader societal implications of such policies. The findings emphasized the complex interplay between policy narratives and bureaucratic practice, demonstrating that social inclusion policies were not merely topdown directives but were continuously reshaped through discursive practices that both reproduced and contested the status-quo. By providing a nuanced understanding of the discourse surrounding social inclusion, this study contributes to a broader understanding of how power, ideology, and governance intersect within Nepal’s bureaucratic systems, with significant implications for policy development and social justice. Given the strong theoretical and methodological foundation, the study has made an important contribution to both critical discourse analysis and social inclusion studies in the context of Nepal's bureaucracy.Item Class dynamics of consumerism in Balaju, Kathmandu(2025) Shrestha, Bimal Babu; Tikaram GautamThis study fundamentally deals with the class dynamics of consumerism I n Kathmandu, particularly in Balaju. More specifically, this study explores the patterns of consumer behavior across various social groups and based on which how class disparities and hierarchies are created and class identity is formed. On that note, this study explores the intersection of consumer behavior, class identity, and social hierarchies in contemporary society, focusing on how consumption patterns are shaped by economic constraints, social pressures, and the desire for social mobility. By using qualitative in-depth interview of twenty respondent altogether, selected purposively from various social class, and using unstructured interview schedule and participant observation method for more than one year, this study endeavors to explore patterns of consumer behavior across different social classes in Balaju and spending patterns and consumer choices influence class disparities and also explains the ways consumer practices and preferences influence existing class identities and social hierarchies The key findings reveal a distinction between inspirational consumption, driven by the desire to project a higher social status, and instinctive consumption, which prioritizes immediate practical needs. The research highlights how economic factors influence consumption, with lower-income individuals focusing on essentials and higher income groups indulging in non-essential purchases, reinforcing class divisions. Digital platforms, including e-commerce and social media, play a significant role in shaping consumption behaviors by providing access to goods and services while also creating new forms of social validation through trends and influencer endorsements. The study also examines how social perceptions impact class identity, with middle class individuals striving to emulate upper-class ideals despite financial strain. The rise of digital consumption, marked by a preference for convenience over cost, further underscores the evolving nature of consumer behavior in urban environments. Ultimately, this research underscores the powerful role of consumption in reinforcing social hierarchies and highlights the tension between social aspirations and economic realities. Key Words: Consumer behavior, class identity, social hierarchy, disparitiesItem Challenges Faced by Children of Musahar Community in Education due to Social Exclusion of Family in Parsa District, Nepal(2025) Khadka, Rajan Kumar; Bindu PokhrelThis study explores the challenges faced by children of Musahar community in education due to social exclusion of family in Parsagadhi Municipality-1, Badaruwa, Parsa District, Nepal. The Musahar, one of the most marginalized Dalit groups, face systemic socio-economic barriers, including extreme poverty, landlessness, child labor, and caste-based discrimination, which significantly hinder their children's access to education. Despite various government policies promoting inclusive education, Musahar children continue to experience high dropout rates due to financial hardships, lack of parental literacy, and societal biases. Using a qualitative research approach, the study employs Semi Structure interviews, Key Informant Interview and focus group discussions to examine the relationship between social exclusion and educational disparities. The findings indicate that economic deprivation forces many Musahar children into labor, limiting their participation in schooling. Gender disparities further exacerbate educational exclusion, with girls facing early marriage and domestic responsibilities. The study highlights that exclusion is not merely a financial issue but an institutional challenge rooted in systemic inequalities. Addressing these barriers requires targeted interventions such as need-based scholarships, parental literacy programs, improved school infrastructure, and stricter enforcement of inclusive education policies. The research provides insights for policymakers, educators, and social organizations working toward reducing educational inequalities. By fostering community participation and implementing inclusive strategies, Nepal can bridge the educational gap and enhance social mobility among marginalized communities.Item DigitalDividesandEconomicEmpowerment:MobilePhoneUsageamong RuralWomenin Sindhupalchowk,Nepal(2025) Peng, Zhao Zi; KeshabSilwalAvailable in fulltextItem Migrating aspirations ; subjectivity shaped by a Family's Move(2025) Bhattarai, Bishnu Maya; Dinesh PrasainThis thesis explores the transformation of subjectivity within a migrating family from rural Okhaldhunga to urban Kathmandu through an autoethnographic lens informed by practice theory and Bourdieu’s conceptual triad of capital, habitus, and field. Drawing from personal narrative, family history, and theoretical inquiry, the study interrogates how economic, social, cultural, and symbolic capitals are reshaped across spatio–temporal transitions. It pays particular attention to intergenerational differences, educational trajectories, and the everyday practices that mediate the rural-urban shift in identity. The analysis reveals that migration not only repositions individuals within new social hierarchies but also transforms embodied dispositions — what Bourdieu terms habitus — into dynamic, adaptable forms responsive to shifting fields. While the older generation bore the impact of structural exclusion from education, the younger generation, including the author, emerged as agents of self-fashioning, negotiating the tensions between rural heritage and urban aspirations. Education, in this context, functions as both a site of constraint and possibility, where subjectivity is contested and reimagined. The study contributes to broader debates in migration studies and practice theory by demonstrating how lived experience complicates and expands existing understandings of habitus and agency. Through an embodied narrative grounded in Nepali socio-political history, this study situates the personal within the political, offering insights into the intimate effects of structural change and the recursive relationship between mobility and identity.Item Examining the Roles of Grassroots Mobilization and Civic Engagement in Strengthening Local Governance in Kawasoti Municipality, Nepal(2025) Sedhai, Pradeep; Keshab SilwalNot availableItem Gender differences in the utilization of senior citizen's allowance in Khaptad Chhedeaha rural municipality word no- 3 Bajura(2025) Budha, Dhan Bahadur; Pasang SherpaThis abstract of the dissertation illustrates how the entire study has been conducted. This dissertation is a sociological study of elderly people in Bajura. The main objective of the study is to analyze and explicate the gender differences in utilization of senior citizen’s allowance in a comprehensive way. However, specific objectives of the study are to describe the utilization of senior citizen’s allowances by male and female senior citizen; to examine the social and cultural factors contributing to the gender difference in utilization of senior citizen’s allowance; and to analyze the influence of family structure in the decision-making process regarding utilization of senior citizen allowance. In the study, in order to analyze and inter operate the meaning, empowerment and social security theories are used and analyzed interrelation between theory and practices and tried to find out the gap in the practice level comparing and contrasting the practice. In the study, policies and empirical studies have been critically analyzed and interpreted. In this study description research design has been used. Primary data such as interview schedule, case study, unstructured interview and observation have been used as the dominant data collection tools and techniques in the study. The findings reveal that while both genders value the allowance, men are more likely to retain control over their spending, whereas women often share or surrender their benefits to household members. Structural barriers such as mobility limitations, literacy, and traditional gender roles further influence the autonomy and decision-making power of elderly women regarding financial resources. The study highlights the need for more gender-sensitive policy implementation and awareness programs to ensure equitable access and use of social security benefits among senior citizens. It also recommends community-level interventions to empower elderly women in managing their entitlements independently and with dignity.Item Religion madarsha and access to education among muslim girls: a study from Kapilvastu municipality(2023) Khan, Najia; Tika Ram GautamNot availableItem Social structure legal provisions and divorce practices in nepal(2025) Ghimire, Sabina; Tika Ram GautamNot availableItem Influence of remittance on education and health in receiving households ; A case of Devghat rural municipality, Tanahun(2025) Bhattarai, Nirmala Kumari; Pramod BhattaThe trends of foreign migration for better lifestyle and its influence on health and education growing rapidly in the context of Nepal. Among 34 household of Devghat Rural Municipality ward no 5 shows that most of the people seeking foreign employment (54.3%) are from the age group of 26-35 years and the migration is dominated by male (91.2%). The country with the highest number of foreign employees was Malaysia (29.4%) followed by the United Arab Emirates (11.7%) and Saudi Arabia (11.8%). The availability of healthcare and education was greatly influenced by the flow of the remittances. The proportion of the children going private schools increases from 53.3% to 56.7%, after family started to receive foreign income. However, the number of children attending government school decreased significantly from 40% to 36.7%. Similarly, the approach of private hospital over government hospital for better health care facility grew from 21.2% to 33.3%, suggesting the foreign income improved seeking practice of better health care services. The significant changes in the reliance on private hospitals for improved medical care facility and access to the better-quality education contributed by the remittance-based development. The male employee earned more than 60,000 Nepalese rupees on average, while the female employee made less. However, the female migrants tend to find better or even higher paying positions in skilled area of the job market. Despite the benefits of foreign employment, there is a gender gap in migration, the cultural and career obstacles which prevents the women from participating. The migration policy needs to enhance safer foreign migration and need to provide women to the job areas equally. For the long term sustainable economic stability, the banking company should also promote the productive uses of remittance over basic consumption of needs and luxury. There is a notable difference between productive and nonproductive spending, according to the examination of remittance utilization. A resounding 68.63% of remittances are spent on consumptive activities, despite 31.37% going toward constructive sectors including savings, buying land, and education. In contrast to being carefully invested for long-term economic growth, remittances are increasingly being used to address immediate household necessities.Item वैदेशिक राेजगारबाट महिलाहरुकाे जीविकाेपार्जनमा आएकाे परिवर्तन लमजुङ् जिल्ला मध्यनेपाल न. पा. वडा ४ दुईपिप्लेमा गरिएकाे एक अध्ययन(2081) राना, गाैरी; मनहरि ढकालNot availableItem Women's participation in microfinance and its impact on Household decision making and asset accessibility in nepal(2025) Karki, Binu; Tika Ram GautamThis study investigates the engagement of women in microfinance and its impact on livelihood enhancement in Budhanilkantha Municipality, Kathmandu. Microfinance has emerged as a critical tool for financial inclusion, particularly for women in developing economies. The research employs a qualitative approach, qualitative interviews to explore the socioeconomic, sociological factors influencing women's participation in microfinance. 15 women from 3 Microfinances were selected conveniently to collect the information from semi structured and unstructured questions. Key findings indicate that access to microfinance services empowers women economically by enabling them to start or expand small businesses, contribute to household income, and improve their overall quality of life. Challenges such as limited financial literacy, social norms, and access barriers are identified as barriers to women's full participation. Policy implications suggest enhancing financial literacy programs, promoting gender-sensitive financial products, and fostering supportive environments to maximize the benefits of women's engagement in microfinance for livelihood enhancement. The changes on women‘s livelihood enhancement on decision making (DM) through the Engagement in microfinance is positively satisfactory. The study reveals that women involved in microfinance programs experience increased financial independence, which leads to a stronger voice in both family and community matters. This empowerment contributes to better resource allocation within households and improves overall well-being. The relationship between decision making (DM) and ownership of assets (OA) of women through the Engagement in microfinance is perfectly positive.Item Urbanization and Social Cohesion in Bharatpur Metropolitan City of Chitwan District(2025) Sapkota, Janak; Tika Ram GautamThis study explores the relationship between urbanization and social cohesion in Bharatpur Metropolitan City, which is currently experiencing rapid demographic shifts and extensive infrastructural expansion. As cities grow, they undergo significant social transformations that impact community structures, interpersonal relationships, and trust among residents. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for fostering inclusive and sustainable urban development. The primary objective of this research is to analyze the effects of urbanization on key social cohesion indicators, including trust, participation, mutual tolerance, and social networks. By employing a concurrent mixed-methods approach, this study integrates both quantitative and qualitative data collection techniques to provide a comprehensive analysis of the phenomenon. The research employs a structured household survey and key informant interviews to collect data, ensuring a holistic understanding of how urbanization influences social cohesion. A sample size of 269 households was determined using Cochran’s formula to guarantee a broad representation across gender, age, and socio-economic groups. Quantitative data were analyzed using statistical tools to identify patterns and trends, while qualitative insights were derived through thematic analysis of in-depth interviews with key stakeholders, including social leaders, policymakers, and residents. The study explores the extent to which urbanization fosters economic development and infrastructure improvements while simultaneously eroding traditional social bonds and widening disparities in community engagement.The findings indicate that while urbanization has led to better infrastructure, increased economic opportunities, and modernized living conditions, it has also contributed to the weakening of traditional social ties, reduced community participation, and heightened socio-economic inequalities. The study highlights that newer urban settlements exhibit lower levels of trust and engagement compared to older, more established communities, where social networks remain relatively intact. The increasing diversity of the population, driven by migration, has further complicated the cohesion of urban communities, leading to fragmented social interactions and a diminished sense of collective identity.