Nepal Faces Research Articles

P132 Psoriasis and health economic impact in a developing country like Nepal

Abstract Introduction Psoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory skin disorder affecting millions globally. In low-income countries like Nepal, the economic burden of managing psoriasis is compounded by limited healthcare resources, inadequate access to treatments, and socio-economic constraints. Aim To assess the prevalence and severity of psoriasis in Nepal. To evaluate the direct and indirect economic costs associated with psoriasis management. To identify gaps in healthcare infrastructure and access to treatment. To propose cost-effective strategies to improve psoriasis care and reduce its economic impact. A mixed-methods approach was employed for a year, including:Epidemiological analysis: Reviewed existing literature and health records to estimate psoriasis prevalence and severity in Nepal.Cost analysis: Calculated direct costs (medical expenses, hospital visits, medications) and indirect costs (loss of productivity, absenteeism) through patient surveys and healthcare data.Qualitative interviews: Conducted in-depth interviews with healthcare providers, patients, and policymakers to understand the barriers to effective psoriasis management.Policy review: Analysed national health insurance policies and their effectiveness in addressing psoriasis care. Results Prevalence: Approximately 2–3% of the Nepalese population is affected by psoriasis, with varying degrees of severity. Economic burden: The average annual cost per patient is significant, encompassing medical expenses, travel costs for treatment, and loss of income due to reduced work capacity. Healthcare gaps: Limited availability of dermatologists, high cost of biologic treatment which is not easily available, taking OTC drugs and lack of public awareness are major barriers. Patient impact: Psoriasis patients in Nepal face considerable socio-economic challenges, including stigma, reduced quality of life, and mental health issues. Conclusion The findings indicate that psoriasis imposes a substantial economic burden on both individuals and the healthcare system in Nepal. The lack of specialized care in rural areas and high treatment costs exacerbate this burden. There is an urgent need for integrated healthcare approaches, increased health insurance facility for psoriasis care, and public health initiatives to raise awareness and reduce stigma. Addressing the health economic impact of psoriasis in Nepal requires a multifaceted strategy, including policy reforms, improved access to affordable treatments, and enhanced healthcare infrastructure. By implementing cost-effective and sustainable interventions, it is possible to alleviate the economic burden of psoriasis and improve the quality of life for affected individuals.

Investigating the Effect of Kaizen Management on Industrial Performance at Kathmandu Valley: Empirical Evidence of Japanese Management Theory

Background: Kaizen, originating from Miyazaki et al. (1986), emphasizes efficient work approaches, impacting global businesses. Despite its widespread adoption, Nepal faces queries regarding its efficacy and implementation challenges. Objective: This study examines the effect of Kaizen Management on Industrial Performance at Kathmandu Valley – one of the core business cities of South Asia as well as challenges of Kaizen Management by providing the managerial solution for effective Kaizen Management. Methods: Following the Japanese Management Theory (Theory Z), an explanatory research design is employed to identify causal relationships between variables in the study of Kaizen management. Based in the Kathmandu Valley, managers from 158 industries (35 from Bhaktapur, 62 from the Balaju Industrial Estate, and 61 from the Patan Industrial Estate) were selected using probability sampling techniques, and primary data were collected via survey methods using structured questionnaires. Results: Employee Skills & Efforts, Working Area Impact, and Follow-up Activities all have a significant impact on how Kaizen management is implemented. This finding provides theoretical support for Japanese Management Theory. According to the results, Kaizen management is a new idea that has to be given greater consideration in Nepalese industrial estates. Conclusion: Organizational rules and procedures need to be changed and amended more so that staff members, supervisors, and organizations may make significant strides in implementing Kaizen Management across industries in Kathmandu valley. Keywords: Kaizen Management, Industrial Estate, Structural Equation Modelling, Nepal Paper Type: Research Paper JEL Classification: J53, M11, M12, O32, G32

Assessment of knowledge, attitude and practice towards maternal healthcare among mothers in Illam: a cross-sectional study from Nepal.

Healthcare during pregnancy and childbirth and after delivery is important for the survival and well-being of both the mother and the neonate. Maternal healthcare in Nepal faces challenges due to various causes. However, providing proper knowledge on maternal healthcare to mothers and promoting a positive attitude towards it can have a significant impact on maternal and child health outcomes. The objective of this study was to assess knowledge, attitude and practice towards maternal healthcare among mothers in Illam. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 197 mothers in Illam municipality who gave birth within the last 5 years. The study used face-to-face interviews with a semi-structured questionnaire to collect data. Descriptive as well as inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. The total number of participants was 197. The results showed majority (48.22%) belonged to the age group of 22-29 years and the mean age of the participants was 30.2± 5.37, majority were home-makers (44.7%), mean age at marriage was 21.39±3.99 years, mean age at first pregnancy was 23.9±4.33years and mean birth spacing from last child was 70±41.28 months. Overall, we found that knowledge, attitude and practice regarding antenatal care (ANC) were 72%, 83% and 69%, respectively. Similarly, knowledge, attitude and practice regarding post-natal care (PNC) were 39%, 91%, and 43%, respectively. Mothers showed satisfactory knowledge on ANC but inadequate knowledge on PNC. Most had a positive attitude towards both practices. However, actual practices related to ANC and PNC were poor despite adequate knowledge and attitude.

Unlocking Potential: A Comprehensive Analysis of Inclusive Education Policies for Children with Disabilities in Nepal

Special Education Council was established in 1973 after the 1971 National Education System Plan transformed inclusive education in Nepal. Despite delays, 2015 constitutional mandates and 2019 National Education Policy support inclusive education. This review article examines Nepal's inclusive education policies from 1996 to 2017 focusing on changes and challenges. Recent successes include the 2010 ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the 2018 Compulsory and Free Education Act. The 2019 policy merger and 2076 Education Policy lack inclusive education implementation plans, indicating areas needing improvement. Utilizing Policy Implementation Theory alongside SWOT Analysis, this study endeavors to assess the efficacy of existing policies, evaluate historical adaptations, and scrutinize adherence to international commitments within the Nepalese context. As the International Institute for Educational Planning highlights, legislative frameworks play a pivotal role in fostering parity and inclusivity, underscoring the imperative for stakeholder consensus. Nepal's 2015 constitution meets international standards; however, physical accessibility is still a concern. The study focuses on accessibility, inclusive party laws, manifestos, and collaboration with OPDs, which are recommended for effective representation. Similarly, equal education and employment require inclusive curriculum design and barrier removal in inclusive education and vocational training. Nepal faces policy discrepancies, a lack of trained special educators, and insufficient resources. Implementing inclusive education policies in Nepal is challenging due to contextual, organizational, and policy barriers. It requires infrastructure investments, awareness campaigns, and targeted regulations. Infrastructure investments, awareness campaigns, and targeted regulations are needed implementing inclusive education policies in Nepal is complicated by contextual, organizational, and policy barriers. The study recommends a comprehensive, situation-specific strategy using school psychologists to promote inclusive mindsets in technical and vocational education with invest in infrastructure development to ensure physical accessibility for individuals with disabilities and enact policies that promote inclusive practices within educational and vocational training institutions.

Triple Problems of Nepalese Hills: Low Income, Migration and, Land Use Changes – One Possible Solution: Specialty Rice

The hills of Nepal face a complex triad of interrelated challenges: low income, outmigration, and land abandonment leading to aquifer desiccation, with low income serving as the precursor of this vicious cycle. The Nepalese hills harbor two significant yet underutilized potentials. First, the picturesque terraces, a legacy of preceding generations, are unfortunately abandoned and neglected. Second, these hills harbor diverse landrace varieties of rice, each with unique traits, though only a limited number among them have received the deserved recognition and fair market prices. This study seeks to identify and analyze these rice varieties, investigate their value chain, and conduct a comparative cost-benefit analysis against other rice varieties across Nepal to evaluate their economic feasibility. This study, conducted across 12 districts in Eastern Nepal, involved 12 focused group discussions with rice farmers, 200 individual interviews with rice farmers, as well as 10 individual interviews each with rice millers, agro vets, and rice traders. The research employed cost-benefit analysis as a tool to assess economic feasibility. The findings indicated that some of these rice varieties demonstrate a benefit-to-cost ratio ranging from two to four times higher than conventional rice varieties. The economic viability of most other varieties remains unknown as they have not yet been tested in the market. These findings present crucial insights for researchers, policymakers, development practitioners, and the private sector to further explore, act upon, facilitate, and invest in the untapped potential, aiming to break the vicious cycle and ensure increased income, reduced migration, and conservation of ecological and environmental resources.

Unmet need for family planning and associated factors among currently married women in Nepal: A further analysis of Nepal Demographic and Health Survey-2022.

Family planning (FP) is crucial for improving maternal and newborn health outcomes, promoting gender equality, and reducing poverty. Unmet FP needs persist globally, especially in South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa leading to unintended pregnancies, unsafe abortions, and maternal fatalities. This study aims to identify the determinants of unmet needs for FP from a nationally representative survey. We analyzed the data of 11,180 currently married women from nationally representative Nepal Health Demographic Survey 2022. We conducted weighted analysis in R statistical software to account complex survey design and non-response rate. We conducted univariate and multivariable binary and multinomial logistic regression to assess association of unmet need for FP with independent variables including place of residence, province, ecological belt, ethnicity, religion, current age, participant's and husband's education, occupation, wealth quintile, parity, desire for child, and media exposure. The total unmet FP need was 20.8% (95%CI: 19.7, 21.9) accounting 13.4% (95%CI: 12.5, 14.4) for unmet need for limiting and 7.4% (95%CI: 6.8, 8.0) for unmet for spacing. Lower odds of total unmet need for FP were present in 20-34 years and 35-49 years compared to <20 years, women belonging to Madhesi ethnic group (AOR: 0.78; 95%CI: 0.64, 0.95) compared to Brahmin/Chhetri, women from richest (AOR: 0.69; 95%CI: 0.56, 0.84), richer (AOR: 0.82; 95%CI: 0.68, 0.97) and middle wealth quintile (AOR: 0.82; 95%CI:0.70, 0.98) groups compared poorest wealth quintile group and women belonging to rural area (AOR: 0.89; 95%CI: 0.80, 0.99) compared to urban area. Higher odds of unmet need for FP were present among women with basic (AOR: 1.34; 95%CI: 1.17, 1.54), and secondary level (AOR: 1.32; 95%CI: 1.12, 1.56) education compared to women without education, among women from Madhesh (AOR: 1.56; 95%CI: 1.22, 1.98), Gandaki (AOR: 2.11; 95%CI: 1.66, 2.68), Lumbini (AOR: 1.97; 95%CI: 1.61, 2.42) and Sudurpashchim province (AOR: 1.64; 95%CI: 1.27, 2.10) compared to Koshi province and among women whose husband education was basic level (AOR:1.37; 95%CI: 1.15, 1.63), or secondary level (AOR: 1.32; 95%CI: 1.09, 1.60) education. Nepal faces relatively high unmet FP needs across various socio-demographic strata. Addressing these needs requires targeted interventions focusing on age, ethnicity, religion, education, and socio-economic factors to ensure universal access to FP services.

Understanding challenges and enhancing the competency of healthcare providers for disability inclusive sexual and reproductive health services in rural Nepal.

Women with disabilities in rural Nepal face many challenges in accessing sexual and reproductive health services including harassment and unpleasant behavior by the healthcare providers. Though National Guideline for Disability Inclusive Health Service in Nepal is in place, there are gaps in providing the sexual and reproductive health needs of women with disabilities. There has been limited research exploring the competency and capacity of health care providers on providing sexual and reproductive health services and information for women living with disabilities. Thus, this study aims to explore the competencies of rural healthcare providers in delivering disability inclusive sexual and reproductive health services for women with disabilities. The study used qualitative research methodology using thematic research design. Key informant interviews and focus group discussions were conducted using semi-structured interview guidelines to obtain information. Data collection was carried out till the data saturation was reached. Inductive coding was done using Dedoose software. The codebook was developed, sub-themes and themes were developed and presented as result of this study. Knowledge gaps in disability management, procedural skills and biased perception towards sexual and reproductive health need of women with disabilities, were evident among healthcare providers. Additionally, an inadequate skill among health care providers to communicate with women with disabilities for service provision was evident. To address these challenges and enhance the competency of the health care providers there is need for disability management trainings for them. Other important measures such as inclusion of disability and sexual and reproductive health in medical education curriculum, provision of sign language interpreter and disability inclusive information system, decision-making abilities and authority for disability inclusive infrastructure and tool is necessary. To address the existing challenges for disability inclusive health services, it is essential to strengthen the competency and agency of the healthcare providers, and improve the ecosystem of health institution. For this, it is important for health institutions to be disability inclusive, improved behavior and attitude of health care providers, enhanced clinical knowledge on disability management and procedural skills of healthcare providers. Additionally, improving interpersonal communication skills and decision-making autonomy of health care providers is important for disability inclusive SRH services.

Exploring Economic Growth and Development Strategies in South Korea and Nepal: Evaluating Risk and Opportunities in Investment Narratives

This article explores the narratives of investment in South Korea and Nepal, examining the risks and opportunities associated with each country. The study is based on a comprehensive review of existing literature, including academic research, government reports, and news articles. The analysis reveals that while South Korea is widely considered a safe and stable investment destination, with a well-developed infrastructure, skilled workforce, and strong regulatory framework, Nepal presents a more complex and challenging investment landscape, characterized by political instability, weak governance, and inadequate infrastructure. However, the study also uncovers a range of unique investment opportunities in Nepal, particularly in the areas of renewable energy, tourism, and agriculture. The article concludes by offering insights and recommendations for investors seeking to navigate these complex and dynamic markets. The findings suggest that while South Korea is widely perceived as a relatively safe and attractive destination for investment, with a highly developed economy and supportive government policies, Nepal faces greater challenges and uncertainties, including political instability, inadequate infrastructure, and limited access to financing. The study also highlights several areas of potential opportunity for investors in both countries, including in emerging industries such as renewable energy and technology, as well as in sectors such as tourism and agriculture. The study concludes with a discussion of the implications of these findings for investors and policymakers, and suggests areas for further research and analysis.

Nepal in the SAARC Framework: Promoting Sovereignty and National Security

Nepal's involvement in the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) significantly shapes its foreign policy decisions, affecting its sovereignty and national security. This article thoroughly explores Nepal's role in SAARC, considering its history, current importance, and future implications. Using research methods backed by real evidence, it carefully examines how ideas like sovereignty and national security play out within SAARC, focusing on Nepal's stance and actions amidst changing regional circumstances. Through a detailed review of existing studies and relevant examples, the article identifies gaps in understanding and proposes research questions to fill those gaps effectively. Furthermore, it addresses the various challenges Nepal faces within the SAARC framework, suggesting ways to enhance its involvement while safeguarding its sovereignty and national security interests. The findings highlight Nepal's active participation in SAARC initiatives, such as trade agreements and disaster management frameworks, showcasing the organization as a platform for enhancing economic integration, connectivity, and regional stability. Additionally, the article reveals Nepal's strategic use of SAARC to balance its relationships with neighboring giants India and China, mitigating challenges to its sovereignty and security. Despite significant benefits, the research underscores the persistent obstacles posed by regional power dynamics, political instability, and trade imbalances. Ultimately, this article highlights the vital significance of Nepal's participation in SAARC, stressing its potential to promote stability and prosperity across South Asia.

Efforts of Nepal's Least Developed Countries (LDC) Graduation and Its Challenges

The primary objectives of this study are to examine the initiatives undertaken by the government of Nepal for LDC graduation, identify challenges faced during process, and discuss the potential impact of graduation. This study is based on qualitative analysis of secondary data obtained from diverse domestic and international sources. Major sources include literature reviews, government policies, reports, and international declarations. Comprehensive desk review on the issue shows that Nepal has undertaken a strategic plan for LDC graduation, prioritizing investments in human capital, infrastructure, and healthcare, while addressing income disparities. Nepal has already achieved two requirements; HAI and EVI, and Nepal fell significantly short of the LDC graduation threshold of a per capita GNI. The plan includes achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and progressing from a lower-middle income to an upper-middle-income nation by 2030.Despite progress, Nepal faces challenges in achieving graduation, including political instability, governance issues, and environmental vulnerabilities. The country lags in good governance rankings, which could hinder its development efforts. Nepal's commitment to SDGs is seen as a potential driver for LDC graduation, focusing on sustainability, gender equality, clean energy, job creation, and economic development. Nepal aims to become a high-income country by 2043, emphasizing poverty reduction, trade balance improvement, and overall quality of life enhancement. Leaving the LDC category will bring opportunities but also challenges, including the loss of special market access that was provided to the least developed countries like Nepal. Other challenges may involve growing trade and market capacity and strengthening the global competitiveness of internal production. Internally, intersectional variations of inequalities and poverty among and between regions, castes and ethnic groups in Nepal may generate challenges meeting LDC graduations and its sustainability.

Exploring Economic Growth and Development Strategies in South Korea and Nepal: Evaluating Risk and Opportunities in Investment Narratives

This article explores the narratives of investment in South Korea and Nepal, examining the risks and opportunities associated with each country. The study is based on a comprehensive review of existing literature, including academic research, government reports, and news articles. The analysis reveals that while South Korea is widely considered a safe and stable investment destination, with a well-developed infrastructure, skilled workforce, and strong regulatory framework, Nepal presents a more complex and challenging investment landscape, characterized by political instability, weak governance, and inadequate infrastructure. However, the study also uncovers a range of unique investment opportunities in Nepal, particularly in the areas of renewable energy, tourism, and agriculture. The article concludes by offering insights and recommendations for investors seeking to navigate these complex and dynamic markets. The findings suggest that while South Korea is widely perceived as a relatively safe and attractive destination for investment, with a highly developed economy and supportive government policies, Nepal faces greater challenges and uncertainties, including political instability, inadequate infrastructure, and limited access to financing. The study also highlights several areas of potential opportunity for investors in both countries, including in emerging industries such as renewable energy and technology, as well as in sectors such as tourism and agriculture. The study concludes with a discussion of the implications of these findings for investors and policymakers, and suggests areas for further research and analysis.

Efficacy of different organic and inorganic nutrient sources on the growth and yield of bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.)

The cultivation of bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.) in Nepal faces significant challenges, resulting in diminished yields compared with other regions. The pivotal issue is optimizing fertilizer management practices to enhance bitter gourd growth and yield. In April 2022, a field experiment was conducted in Kapilvastu, Nepal to investigate the efficacy of organic and inorganic fertilizers on the growth and yield of bitter gourd. The study included five treatments: the recommended dose of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) fertilizer (111.66:54.56:35.36 NPK kg ha−1, and 29.49 t ha−1 farmyard manure), 100 % poultry manure, 100 % farmyard manure, 50 % NPK + 50 % poultry manure, and 50 % NPK + 50 % farmyard manure. We hypothesized that a blend of 50 % organic and 50 % inorganic manure would significantly enhance bitter gourd performance. These treatments were evaluated in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four replications and analyzed using R-Studio. The results showed that 50 % NPK +50 % poultry manure increased growth parameters, such as plant height (380 cm), branch count plant−1 (22), node count plant−1 (34.75), female flower count (50.50), fruit length plant−1 (24.75 cm), and fruit diameter (6.53 cm), and decreased male flower count (132.25) and days to first male (33.75) and female (36.25) flowering. The application of 50 % NPK and 50 % poultry manure increased individual fruit weight (274.50 g) and yield-attributing traits, such as fruit count (17.25), fruit yield (55.56 t ha−1), net return (7944$), and benefit-cost ratio (3.14). A synergistic blend of 50 % NPK and 50 % poultry manure can serve as a viable and effective nutrient source for promoting growth and maximizing bitter gourd yield. Although these results are promising, further validation and extension of these positive findings are required on a larger scale in diverse ecological regions.

The Crisis of Physician Well-being in Nepal: A Multifaceted Dilemma Demanding Urgent Intervention.

The healthcare system in Nepal faces challenges despite the establishment of numerous medical colleges and an increasing number of doctors. The distribution of medical colleges is disproportionately concentrated in urban areas, leaving rural populations without quality healthcare. The mental well-being of physicians is a growing concern, with studies indicating high levels of burnout, stress, and depression among healthcare workers, worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic. Rising suicide rates among medical professionals highlight the severity of burnout and depression in the healthcare sector. Factors contributing to this crisis include inadequate recruitment in government hospitals, a shortage of healthcare professionals, and inefficiencies in resource distribution. Attacks on physicians have become alarmingly frequent, necessitating comprehensive studies to understand the challenges faced by different specialties and the impact of rural versus urban settings. To address these issues, prompt filling of vacant positions in government hospitals and prioritizing physicians' mental health is crucial. The government should offer competitive salaries, effective management, and supportive working environments to combat the brain drain. Initiatives inspiring professionals to stay in Nepal, along with maintaining the National Health Insurance Program and controlling healthcare privatization, are necessary. Resilience training, professional programs, and improved infrastructure in government medical colleges are vital. This crisis demands global attention and a national study to evaluate burnout, depression, and suicide among healthcare professionals. By addressing these challenges and supporting the well-being of healthcare workers, Nepal can work towards a sustainable healthcare system that provides quality care for all.

Exploring Dimensions of Teacher Education in Nepal: Perspectives, Challenges, and Reform Opportunities

This study evaluates Nepal's English Language Teacher Education (ELTE) reform possibilities and challenges. The study examines teacher education in connection with social contexts, knowledge transformation, and knowledge generation from many perspectives. Reflective teaching, modelling, and research habits improve instructors' professionalism and create effective learning environments. According to the report, English Language Teachers in Nepal face obstacles that must be addressed in teacher education. Content analysis is used to study the diverse literature. Surkhet English teachers and headteachers participate in a focus group. The paper's results and discussion section summarize the literature review and participants' opinions. It covers key concerns such as the absence of physical facilities and funds for teacher training, poor English language ability among instructors, coordination issues between pre-service and in-service training programs, and minimal research on ELT classroom methods. Reforming teacher education to improve topic knowledge, pedagogical skills, and technology expertise is recommended. English language teacher education faces societal inequities, uneven government regulations, and limited access to internet resources and databases. The study also examines technology integration in English language classrooms, online platforms, and the lack of research on ICT integration in Nepalese education. This research article helps to understand ELTE in Nepal and suggests areas for development and additional study.

Outcome of the critically ill patient brought to emergency department and their mode of transportation

Introduction: General Practice and Emergency Medicine is the backbone of the health system of a developing country like Nepal with a significant number of cases being encountered in the general practice clinics and Emergency Department (ED). However, Emergency Medical Services in Nepal face significant challenges with a need for numerous improvements. The medical care provided while using ambulance services in Nepal is insufficient. This study assessed the outcomes of patients brought to Patan Hospital's ED, considering the method of transportation used for their arrival. Method: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted at Patan Hospital from April 2021 to March 2022. Total 72 patients were considered for the study. Frequency, Percentage, Median, and Inter-quartile Range were calculated for descriptive analysis. The Chi-square test was used for analytical study and p-value &lt;0.05 was considered statistically significant. Result: The maximum percentage of critically ill patient was 25.0% (in age group of &gt;60 years) and the minimum was 8.3% (in age group of 0-14 years). 66.7% were male and 33.3% were female. Among all, 34.7% patients presented to emergency via ambulance (33.3% via ka/kha and 1.4% via gha ambulance), 37.5% via private transportation (27.8% via bike and 9.72 via car) and 27.8% patients via public transportation (18.05% via taxi and 9.72 via micro/bus/tempo). There was no association between the modes of transportation and the mortality outcomes and ICU admission among the critically ill patient (p=0.385, and p=0.716 respectively). Conclusion: Regardless of the transportation method, there was no significant difference in mortality outcomes and the requirement for ICU care among critically ill patients presenting to the emergency department signifying the insufficient emergency medical services provided during the ambulance transportation.

“A comprehensive assessment of suitability of Global Precipitation Products for hydro-meteorological applications in a data-sparse Himalayan region”

Observation rainfall networks in developing countries such as Nepal face many challenges (like availability and quality). Global Precipitation Products (GPPs) could be an alternative to gauge-based observed rainfall (GOR) in hydro-meteorological studies. However, GPPs performance across the Himalayan regions is still unknown and is influenced by several factors such as spatial and temporal resolutions, primary data sources, etc. We have comprehensively assessed the suitability of the latest GPPs using categorical and continuous variable performance metrics for the Gandak River Basin in the Nepalese Himalayas. We then ranked GPPs for the first time using the Multicriteria Decision-Making technique. 11 out of 12 GPPs considered underestimated the annual rainfall in the basin. Performance of GPPs was also inconsistent for monthly/annual and daily timescales. At longer timescales, CHIRPS and IMERG_Final are better at representing the spatial and temporal pattern of the rainfall (spatial correlation of 0.75) and least percentage bias (PBIAS < 12%). At a daily timescale, IMERG_Final, ERA5, and PERSIANN_CDR stand out for probability of detection (POD) of rainfall, while all GPPs perform poorly in false alarm ratio (FAR). Although all GPPs have relatively high RMSE (6-14 mm/day), correlation (CC) with observed rainfall was high for IMERG_Final, ERA5, and MERRA_2 in most of the sub-basins. With elevation, the performance of all GPPs is reduced, as evidenced by higher PBIAS, and lower CC. Although there is plenty of room for improvements in rainfall estimation by GPPs, among the existing dataset, IMERG_Final scored best in the majority of the performance indicators and ranked first in five out of six sub-basins. It would be relatively the better choice in the data sparse Himalayan region when daily rainfall data is required. For applications that require monthly/annual rainfall, both CHIRPS and IMERG_Final are equally suitable. The method proposed in the study for assessing GPPs can be readily applied in other river basins and at sub-daily timescales.

Nutrition, multidimensional poverty and income: The case of Nepal

AbstractThis study aims to assess the multidimensional poverty index (MPI) of farm households in Nepal and investigate the influence of various forms of livelihood capital on their income. The calculation of MPI incorporates the nutrition dimension along with health, education, and living standards using the Alkire‐Foster method. The results show that farm households in Nepal face severe multidimensional poverty (MPI = 0.433, using poverty cut‐off criterion = 0.3). The incidence of income poverty for Nepali farm households is around 20%, which indicates that income‐based poverty may mask the true poverty of farm households in Nepal.

Challenges in forest fire management in the Himalaya: experiences from Nepal

Nepal faces challenges in forest fire management that are aggravated by climate change, and there is an urgent need for financial, institutional and technological resources and for capacity development to effectively implement fire management. The problems of forest fires in the region are complex, and cannot be addressed at a single sectoral level. This article explains that to overcome the country’s limited capacity in fire management, there is a need to strengthen the human and technical resources of agencies and local communities that deal with fire prevention and response. In addition, transboundary cooperation in fire management is needed to share the most appropriate knowledge of advanced approaches in fire management.

A qualitative study on gender inequality and gender-based violence in Nepal

BackgroundGender inequality and violence are not mutually exclusive phenomena but complex loops affecting each other. Women in Nepal face several inequalities and violence. The causes are diverse, but most of these results are due to socially assigned lower positioning of women. The hierarchies based on power make women face subordination and violence in Nepal. The study aims to explore participants' understanding and experience to identify the status of inequality for women and how violence emerges as one of its consequences. Furthermore, it explores the causes of sex trafficking as an example of an outcome of inequality and violence.MethodThe study formulated separate male and female groups using a purposive sampling method. The study used a multistage focus group discussion, where the same groups met at different intervals. Six focus group discussions, three times each with male and female groups, were conducted in a year. Thirty-six individuals, including sixteen males and twenty females, were involved in the discussions. The study used constructivist grounded theory for the data analysis.ResultsThe study participants identify that a power play between men and women reinforce inequality and increases the likelihood of violence for women. The findings suggest that the subjugation of women occurs due to practices based on gender differences, constricted life opportunities, and internalization of constructed differences among women. The study identifies that interpersonal and socio-cultural violence can result due to established differences between men and women. Sex trafficking, as an example of the outcome of inequality and violence, occurs due to the disadvantageous position of women compounded by poverty and illiteracy. The study has developed a concept of power-play which is identified as a cause and consequence of women's subordination and violence. This power play is found operative at various levels with social approval for men to use violence and maintain/produce inequality.ConclusionThe theoretical concept of power play shows that there are inequitable power relations between men and women. The male-centric socio-cultural norms and practices have endowed men with privilege, power, and an opportunity to exploit women. This lowers the status of women and the power-play help to produce and sustain inequality. The power-play exposes women to violence and manifests itself as one of the worst expressions used by men.

Experimental Analysis of a Centrifugal pump in pump mode and turbine mode

The national grid of Nepal faces several hurdles during its operation, especially in remote areas of hilly and mountain region. Citizens face blackouts of days to weeks, due disturbances caused in the grid in those regions. Micro hydro can be a very strategic backup for the national grid in those regions. However, due to lack of subsidy, which used to be provided in the past, for development of micro hydro, micro developers are unable to afford the construction cost of the micro hydro. Thus using Pumps that are readily available in the market at a much cheaper price, compared to custom built hydro turbines, as turbines can be a very economical alternative for such cases. But the concept of pump as turbine has not been utilized in Nepalese market. In this study, a centrifugal pump abundantly available in the Nepalese market has been used to evaluate its performance in turbine mode as well as in pump mode. A characteristic performance curve of the pump operated in turbine mode is obtained from the experimental data. The Best efficiency point and the operating regime is also determined based on the results obtained from experiments. The head conversion factor and discharge conversion factor calculated based on the data measured from the experiment, at various operating conditions, are compared to previous works done by other researchers. The performance obtained from the experimental analysis is comparable to the performance of the turbines installed in the micro hydro power projects. PAT can be a game changer in the micro hydro sector, by providing a very economical and technically viable option of expensive hydro turbines.