International Research Journal of MMC (IRJMMC)
Aims and Scope Makawanpur Multiple Campus (MMC) is a non-profit making community campus located in Hetauda, Makawanpur, Nepal. It was established on Magh 19, 2037 BS (February 1, 1981 AD). It is a QAA (Quality Assurance & Accreditation) certified academic institution by UGC, Nepal. The campus is publishing a peer reviewed journal entitled “International Research Journal of MMC (IRJMMC) that publishes original research articles quarterly in all areas of Social Sciences, Management, Education, Law, Science and Technology etc. The main aim of the journal is to encourage all students, faculties, and researchers to engage in research, carry out research work and provide global platform for all scholars. Publication Frequency IRJMMC publishes four issues a year. The Editorial Process Authors are requested to visit the author guidelines first to prepare the article before submission. Submitted manuscript format will be reviewed and the author will be informed about further process by the research coordinator. Then the received manuscript will be submitted to the review committee that will forward it to the concerned reviewers for the blind peer review. The author will be informed about the comments of the reviewers. The author will have to return the corrected article within one week for the further process of publication. The Chief Editor will be responsible for the quality of the journal article concerning its publication. Open Access Policy This journal provides immediate open access to its content on the principle that making research freely available to the public supports a greater global exchange of knowledge. Copyright Copyright of the articles is transferred to Makawanpur Multiple Campus. Article Processing Fees Cost of Hard copy: Rs 200/ For a Nepali author (After the article is accepted for publication): Rs 2000/ For a foreign author (After the article is accepted for publication): USD 50/ Sources of Support UGC Nepal supports the publication. Makawanpur Multiple Campus has established a Research Management Cell and campus allocates certain percentage from monthly tuition fee collection. The MMC Campus also get support from the local and provincial government of Nepal. Publisher The International Research Journal of MMC is published by Makawanpur Multiple Campus.
Makawanpur Multiple Campus, Hetauda, Nepal
Prevalence and Factor Associated with Elder Abuse among Older Adults in Madi Municipality, Chitwan, Nepal: A Community- based Cross Sectional Study
Elder abuse is a growing public health and human right concern worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where population ageing is accelerating. Evidence from Nepal remains limited and context specific, especially in rural areas. This study aims to determine the prevalence of elder abuse and identify associated factors among older adults residing in a rural municipality of Chitwan District, Nepal. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 156 older adults aged ≥60 years in Ward No. 7 of Madi Municipality, Chitwan, Nepal. Participants were selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected on5th May, 2025 to 20th May 2025 through face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire comprising socio-demographic characteristics, family and economic factors, health-related variables, and elder abuse domains (psychological, physical, financial, sexual abuse, and neglect). Elder abuse was defined as experiencing at least one abusive act in any domain. Descriptive statistics were used to estimate prevalence, and chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests were applied to examine associations. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. The overall prevalence of elder abuse was 46.2% (72/156). Neglect (35.3%) and psychological abuse (34.6%) were the most commonly reported forms, followed by financial abuse (10.9%) and physical abuse (8.3%); no sexual abuse was reported. Elder abuse was significantly associated with age (p = 0.001), education status (p = 0.001), occupation (p = 0.001), number of children (p = 0.002), pension (p = 0.002), old-age allowance (p = 0.001), savings for future (p = 0.001), chronic illness (p = 0.024), and level of dependency in activities of daily living (p = 0.001). Nearly half of older adults in rural Madi Municipality experienced some form of abuse, predominantly neglect and psychological abuse. Socioeconomic vulnerability, poor health status, and functional dependency significantly increased the risk of abuse. The findings of this study imply a need for targeted community-based interventions, policy strengthening, and awareness programs to prevent elder abuse and address its associated risk factors among older adults in Madi Municipality, Chitwan, Nepal.
Copyright (c) 2026 International Research Journal of MMC (IRJMMC) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Urban poverty mainly in the under developing regions is a condition in which people live with a lack of adequate income, basic housing and access to opportunities and social inclusion. This study aims to examine the nature of urban poverty and the different nature of suffering among squatter households in Thapathali squatter settlement situated in Kathmandu Metropolitan City, in a multidimensional way. This study explores comprehensive forms of poverty beyond income-based measures only. It analyzes how economic insecurity is associated with education, health access, housing conditions, and psychological stress. The study applied comparative research design basically within a quantitative approach. It used a household survey under a simple random sampling method. The survey for this research was conducted in March–April 2023 and data were collected using a structured household questionnaire. The analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics, including frequency, percentage, and cross-tabulation to examine the reflection of urban poverty in the squatter settlement. It was used to examine patterns and relationships of poverty across key dimensions of deprivation to explore multidimensional nature poverty from the ground level. The findings show that most households depend on informal and insecure employment due to the status of less capability. A large proportion of households in urban squatter settlement experienced from low income and exclusion of education, health and housing security. These deprivations are closely associated with the insecure psychology of the respondents known as social nature of poverty. The situation promotes stress and feelings of social humiliation among them due to exclusion. The study concludes that urban poverty among squatter communities in Kathmandu is structurally produced through long-term unaccountable political processes and state-based exclusion.
The Role of Agricultural Cooperatives in Reducing Rural Poverty: A Systematic Review of Evidence from Developing Countries
Rural poverty remains one of the most persistent development challenges in the world. Over 700 million people are still living below the international poverty line, and the majority of them depend on agriculture. Agricultural cooperatives have long been proposed as an institutional solution to address the structural disadvantages faced by smallholder farmers. This paper systematically reviews empirical evidence from developing countries to assess whether and how agricultural cooperatives contribute to reducing rural poverty. We reviewed 68 peer-reviewed studies published between 2000 and 2024, focusing on Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, Latin America, and Southeast Asia. Evidence consistently shows that cooperative membership improves household income, market access, food security, and access to credit. However, benefits are not equally distributed, and outcomes depend heavily on governance quality, member participation, and external policy support. Agricultural cooperatives are a valuable but context-dependent tool for poverty reduction. Policy interventions should focus on improving governance, promoting gender inclusion, and integrating cooperatives into broader rural development frameworks.
Transformation of Higher Education in Nepal: Emerging Challenges and the Necessity of Rethinking Approaches
Education is a structured process that enables individuals to acquire the knowledge, skills, values, and attitudes necessary for personal development and meaningful contribution to society. It operates through formal institutions such as schools and universities as well as informal community-based learning environments, thereby empowering learners, strengthening citizenship, and promoting sustainable development and social inclusion. Higher education in Nepal faces several challenges, including outdated curricula, limited research capacity, inadequate infrastructure, and insufficient faculty development. The chief objective is to identify emerging challenges in Nepalese higher education and explore effective strategies for its improvement and transformation. An explanatory sequential mixed-methods research design was employed, involving purposive sampling of key stakeholders, including students, parents, and a pioneer academician. Data were collected through questionnaires, interviews, and document analysis in 2026, and they were examined using thematic analysis. The findings reveal weak governance, an outdated curriculum, limited research capacity, low student engagement, and inadequate scientific and practical education, along with employment-related challenges. These issues reflect structural, institutional, and pedagogical weaknesses that require coordinated reforms. The study emphasizes the need for policymakers and university administrators to implement need-based reforms in curriculum development, research enhancement, infrastructure improvement, and skilled human resource production. Strengthening these areas is essential for improving the quality and relevance of higher education in Nepal. The study is valuable for researchers and scholars by providing insights into existing challenges and supporting evidence-based policy formulation.
Analyzing Syntactic Categories and Grammatical Functions in English Sentences
It is essential for language learners to decode how meaning is organized and conveyed in English sentences. This study adopted a qualitative documentary research design to explore syntactic structures in English sentences. The objective of the study is to analyze syntactic categories and grammatical functions that operate within English sentence structures. Qualitative secondary data were collected from books and journal articles related to syntax and grammatical analysis. The data were gathered through a comprehensive review of secondary sources relevant to syntactic theory and sentence structure. The collected data were analyzed using structural analysis to identify patterns of syntactic categories and their grammatical roles. The analysis revealed that English sentences are primarily organized around core syntactic categories such as noun phrases, verb phrases, prepositional phrases, adjective phrases, and adverbial phrases. It was found that these categories perform grammatical functions including subject, predicate, direct object, indirect object, complement, and adjunct within sentence structures. These patterns demonstrate how syntactic categories combine with grammatical functions to form meaningful sentence structures. The findings highlight the systematic relationship between syntactic structure and grammatical roles in English, contributing to a clearer understanding of sentence construction in English grammar. This study is significant because it enhances understanding of how syntactic categories and grammatical functions operate in English sentence structure, helping to clarify the relationship between phrase types and their roles in communication. The findings benefit linguists, English language teachers, students of linguistics, and researchers interested in syntax and language structures.
Predicting Depression Among College Students Through Academic, Lifestyle, and Smartphone Factors
Purpose: This study examines how academic, lifestyle, and smartphone usage factors jointly predict depression severity among college students in Nepal, with the aim of identifying key risk and protective determinants of mental health. Design/methodology/approach: A quantitative, cross-sectional survey was administered to 394 college students. The questionnaire captured academic stress, lifestyle behaviors, and smartphone habits, alongside the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) to measure depressive symptoms. Data were analyzed using Python through descriptive, correlational, and multiple regression techniques to identify significant predictors. Findings and conclusion: Results showed that 62% of students experienced mild to moderate depression. Multiple regression analysis (R² = 0.56) identified sleep quality (β = -0.37), academic stress (β = 0.29), and social support (β = -0.23) as the strongest predictors. Nighttime smartphone use (β = 0.21) and low physical activity (β = -0.18) also had significant effects. The study concludes that poor sleep, academic overload, and weak social ties elevate depressive symptoms, while social support and healthy lifestyle behaviors act as protective factors. Implications: The findings underscore the importance of holistic student mental health strategies combining stress management, digital hygiene, and lifestyle promotion. Originality/value: This research provides one of the first integrative, data-driven analyses in Nepal linking academic, behavioral, and technological domains to student depression, offering actionable insights for higher education institutions to strengthen well-being initiatives.
Analyzing Filial Loyalty in Anita Desai’s “A Devoted Son”
Filial loyalty is central to comprehending parent-child relationships in contemporary Indian family narratives. The objective of the study is to analyze filial loyalty in the story “A Devoted Son” by Anita Desain. It adopted a qualitative textual analysis research design in which the primary data were drawn from selected excerpts of the story, while secondary data were collected from relevant books and journal articles. A comprehensive review of secondary data was conducted to support and contextualize the findings. Thematic analysis was applied to analyze the excerpts as data and identify patterns in the depiction of filial loyalty. The findings revealed Rakesh’s unwavering filial loyalty as one of the most prominent themes in the story. This study suggests that filial relationships in literature can provide insights into cultural expectations and emotional dynamics within families.
The Role of Social Media in Supporting University-Level Learning
The main aim of the study is to analyse the social media as an educational source. The study was carried out among the bachelor level students. The research study was guided by pragmatism philosophy and the cross-sectional survey research design was applied. Among the bachelor level students, 550 were selected from four faculty i.e. management, education, humanities and science by using simple random sampling method. SPSS version 27 was used to analyse data, and Independent-Samples Mann-Whitney U-Test and Independent-Samples Kruskal-Wallis Test were used to test hypotheses. Result showed that social medias were the basic study resources for University level students. They have used social media for listening to expert, searching for study materials, clearing the confusion, increasing learning interest, interacting with friends, learning cooperatively, establishing friendly relationship, and creating social connections. The null hypothesis "there is no significant difference between gender, caste and religion and their attitude towards social media as an educational resources" is rejected (p=0.000). The social medias were the crucial source of information, knowledge and skills for the university level students of this modern era. They can search required information through various web portals of social media. The study provides insight to wise use of social media in education field, especially in university level for searching study materials as well as to create the collaborative learning environment. The universities and colleges should make policy and plan to integrate students' learning with social media and various web portals to make their students competent in this competitive world.
Rewriting Colonial Narratives: Intertextuality, Feminism, and Postcolonial Subversion in J.M. Coetzee’s Foe
Daniel Defoe’s Robinson Crusoe (1719) is often regarded as a cornerstone of English literature, reinforcing colonial ideology through its narrative of exploration, conquest, and civilization. However, J.M. Coetzee’s Foe (1986) challenges this foundational narrative, using intertextuality, postmodernism, and metafiction to expose the silences and erasures within colonial discourse. This study critically examines Foe through postcolonial and feminist perspectives, drawing on Edward Said’s Orientalism (1978) and Gayatri Spivak’s Can the Subaltern Speak? (1988) to reveal how Coetzee subverts the imperialist and patriarchal assumptions of Defoe’s text. Employing a comparative textual analysis, this research positions Foe within the broader landscape of postcolonial literature and intertextual theory. Through Said’s contrapuntal reading, the study explores how Coetzee deconstructs Defoe’s narrative authority, particularly through the reimagined voices of Susan Barton and Friday. Spivak’s concept of subaltern silence is central to the examination of Friday’s muteness, illustrating how Coetzee critiques the marginalization of colonized subjects in both historical and literary contexts. The findings reveal that Foe is not merely a retelling of Robinson Crusoe but a radical revision that dismantles the myth of the self-sufficient European man while highlighting the epistemic violence imposed on women and indigenous figures. Coetzee’s use of narrative fragmentation, unreliable narration, and metafiction disrupts the traditional colonial framework, emphasizing the instability of historical knowledge. This study argues that Foe serves as a politically charged reconfiguration of literary history, challenging dominant narratives of empire and authorship. By interrogating colonial storytelling and questioning whose voices are heard and whose are erased, Foe becomes a powerful act of literary resistance, creating space for alternative histories that reclaim the voices of the silenced.
A Review of Nutritional Rehabilitation Homes on Child Malnutrition Management and Household socio-economic Well-being in Nepal
Background Childhood malnutrition remains a persistent public health challenge in Nepal, particularly among rural and marginalized populations. Nutritional Rehabilitation Homes (NRHs) and Outpatient Therapeutic Centers (OTCs) have been established to address severe and moderate acute malnutrition (SAM/MAM), yet questions persist regarding long-term sustainability of recovery. Objective This review comprehensively examines outcomes of nutritional rehabilitation for children in Nepal, focusing on clinical efficacy, socioeconomic determinants, and post-discharge well-being. Methods A narrative literature review was conducted using Google Scholar, Scopus, and Nepal Journals Online (NEPJOL). Twenty-one studies published between 2000 and 2026 were synthesized thematically. Results Clinical outcomes in Nepalese NRHs meet international standards, with mean weight gains of 4-7 g/kg/day and case fatality rates between 4-9%. However, a significant "sustainability gap" exists, with poor post-discharge follow-up and limited translation of facility-based gains into long-term recovery. Household socioeconomic status, maternal health literacy, and food security strongly influence outcomes. Emerging evidence supports integrated models combining nutritional treatment with psychosocial stimulation and community-based multisectoral interventions. Conclusion While nutritional rehabilitation programs in Nepal achieve short-term clinical success, long-term sustainability remains inadequate. Future interventions must address underlying household determinants and integrate nutrition-specific with nutrition-sensitive approaches. Research gaps include longitudinal follow-up studies, economic evaluations of integrated models, and implementation research within Nepal's federalized health system.
कुण्डलिनी शक्ति, जागरण विधि एवम् शरीरमा पर्ने प्रभाव र त्यसको व्यवस्थापन (Kundalini Energy, Awakening Methods, Its Effects on the Body, and Its Management)
यस लेखको मुख्य उद्देश्य भनेको कुण्डलिनी शक्ति, जागरण विधि र यसको शरीरमा पर्ने प्रभावहरूलाई विस्तृत रुपमा विश्लेषण गर्नु हो । योग र आयुर्वेद परम्परामा कुण्डलिनी शक्तिलाई महत्वपूर्ण मानिएको छ, जसले आत्मिक उन्नति र शारीरिक स्वास्थ्यमा अभिवृद्धि गर्न मद्दत गर्दछ। यस अध्ययनले विभिन्न धार्मिक ग्रंथहरू, योग शिक्षण प्रणालीहरू र अनुसन्धानात्मक स्रोतहरूलाई अध्ययन र विश्लेषण गरेर यसबाट प्राप्त जानकारीलाई संकलन गरेको छ । यसको माध्यमबाट, कुण्डलिनी जागरणका विविध विधि, ती विधिहरूले शरीरमा पुर्‍याउने प्रभाव, र त्यसको व्यवस्थापन सम्बन्धि विस्तृत विवरण प्रस्तुत गरिएको छ। मुख्य रूपमा, लेखले देखाएको छ कि कुण्डलिनी शक्ति जागरणले शारीरिक र मानसिक स्तरमा धेरै सकारात्मक प्रभाव पार्छ, जस्तै ऊर्जा प्रवाह, चित्तको सन्तुलन, र ध्यान शक्तिमा वृद्धि। यो लेख अनुसार यसप्रकारको अभ्यासलाई सुरक्षित र प्रभावकारी तरिकाले गर्न आवश्यक छ र विशेषज्ञको मार्गदर्शन अनिवार्य हुन्छ। यस अध्ययनले स्पष्ट रूपमा देखाएको छ कि उचित विधि र व्यवस्थापनका माध्यमबाट कुण्डलिनी शक्ति जागरणले जीवनमा समग्र उन्नति/परिवर्तन ल्याउन सक्छ । निष्कर्षमा, अनुसन्धान र अनुभवलाई आधार मान्दै, योग अभ्यासकहरूले सावधानीपूर्वक र जिम्मेवारीका साथ कुण्डलिनी शक्ति जागरण प्रक्रियालाई अभ्यस्त बनाउनु आवश्यक छ । [The main objective of this article is to analyze the practice of Kundalini energy awakening, its effects on the body, and its management. As background, Kundalini energy is considered significant within yogic and Ayurvedic traditions, as it helps in spiritual advancement and enhances physical health. The study consolidates information obtained through the examination and analysis of various religious texts, yoga teachings, and research sources. It provides a detailed account of different methods for awakening Kundalini, the impacts of these practices on the body, and guidelines for proper management. The key findings indicate that the awakening of Kundalini energy has numerous positive effects on both physical and mental levels, such as increased energy flow, mental balance, and enhanced concentration. The study emphasizes that such practices should be performed safely under expert guidance. Ultimately, it concludes that with appropriate technique and management, Kundalini awakening can lead to holistic improvement in life. The article recommends that practitioners approach this process carefully and responsibly, based on ongoing research and experience.]
Human Resources Analytics: A Systematization of Research Topics and Research Agenda
The growing availability of workforce-related data and advances in analytical technologies have significantly transformed the field of Human Resource Management (HRM), giving rise to Human Resources Analytics (HR Analytics) as a strategic domain. HR Analytics refers to the systematic use of data, statistical analysis, and predictive models to improve human resource decision-making and organizational performance. Despite increasing academic and practitioner interest, the HR analytics literature remains fragmented, with diverse definitions, methodologies, and application areas. This study aims to systematize existing research on HR analytics by identifying key themes, methodological approaches, and emerging research gaps, while proposing a comprehensive future research agenda. Using a structured review of peer-reviewed journal articles indexed in Scopus, this study categorizes HR analytics research into core thematic areas, including talent acquisition, employee performance management, retention and turnover, learning and development, workforce planning, and employee well-being. The review highlights that early research predominantly focused on descriptive and diagnostic analytics, while recent studies increasingly emphasize predictive and prescriptive analytics to support strategic HR decisions. Advanced analytical techniques such as machine learning, artificial intelligence, and big data analytics are gaining prominence, enabling organizations to forecast employee behaviour and optimize human capital investments. Methodologically, the review reveals a dominance of quantitative approaches, particularly regression analysis, structural equation modelling, and data mining techniques, often using large organizational datasets. However, qualitative and mixed-methods studies remain limited, suggesting a need for deeper contextual understanding of how HR analytics is implemented and interpreted by decision-makers. Furthermore, most studies adopt a firm-level perspective, with limited attention to ethical concerns, data privacy, employee perceptions, and the potential unintended consequences of algorithm-driven HR decisions. The findings also indicate that while HR analytics is frequently linked to improved organizational performance and competitive advantage, empirical evidence remains inconsistent across industries and regions. This inconsistency underscores the importance of contextual factors such as organizational culture, analytical capability, leadership support, and HR professionals’ data literacy. The review identifies a significant gap between academic research and practical implementation, as many organizations struggle to translate analytical insights into actionable HR strategies. Based on the systematization of existing literature, this study proposes a future research agenda that emphasizes longitudinal research designs, cross-cultural studies, ethical and legal considerations, and the integration of employee-centric perspectives. Additionally, future studies should explore the role of HR analytics in promoting sustainable HRM, diversity and inclusion, and employee well-being. By providing a structured overview of the HR analytics research landscape, this study contributes to theory development and offers practical guidance for scholars and practitioners seeking to leverage analytics for strategic human resource management.
Organizational Change and Employee Performance in Higher Education Institutions in Nepal
In modern institutions, organizational change is a crucial phenomenon that influences both employee performance and the overall efficiency of the institution. This study looks at how employee performance in Nepal's reaccredited higher education institutions (HEIs) is affected by organizational change, particularly changes in leadership and technology. A standard self-reported questionnaire was used to gather data from 270 employees of 11 reaccredited HEIs using a quantitative research approach. Multiple regression analysis and exploratory factor analysis were used in the study to evaluate the correlations between the variables. The results show that while leadership change has no statistically significant impact on employee performance, technology change considerably improves it. Employee performance and technology change were found to be strongly positively correlated by correlation analysis. Nonetheless, the weak association between leadership and technology advancements implies that these elements function separately. These results highlight the critical role that technology plays in increasing worker productivity and the necessity of making calculated investments in digital infrastructure and staff development. On the other hand, leadership changes by themselves could not have a direct impact on performance results, hence more research into the contextual elements affecting leadership efficacy is required. In addition to offering empirical insights for HEI administrators and policymakers to use in developing evidence-based methods to improve employee performance in the face of institutional upheavals, this study adds to the theoretical conversation on organizational change.
Factors Influencing Mathematics Achievement Among Secondary Students in Nepal: Evidence from Hierarchical Regression Analysis
Secondary-level mathematics achievement is vital for students’ academic growth and future science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) opportunities. However, many students in developing countries still perform poorly in mathematics. This study aims to investigate the key factors influencing mathematics achievement among secondary school students in Nepal. A quantitative survey research design was conducted with 206 Grade 9 and 10 students from six urban and rural public schools in Makwanpur district in 2025. Data were collected via a structured questionnaire on learning factors and students’ mathematics scores from school records. SPSS was used for descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression analyses to determine each factor’s impact on achievement. The findings reveal that student-related factors, particularly self-efficacy, motivation and study habits, are the strongest predictors of mathematics achievement (β = 0.497, p < .001). School-related factors and parental or socioeconomic support also demonstrate significant positive contributions, while teacher-related variables do not show a significant independent effect when other variables are controlled. A moderate but significant achievement gap between urban and rural students was found. The study emphasizes improving student motivation, learning strategies, and educational resources—especially in rural schools—to enhance mathematics achievement and reduce disparities.
Human Resource Management Practices and Employee Engagement: An Empirical Evidence from Nepalese Commercial Banks
This study investigates the relationships between human resource management practices and employee engagement in the Nepalese commercial banks in year 2025-2026. Grounded in Social Exchange Theory (SET), the research posits that when organizations provide developmental opportunities, fair performance systems, and satisfying work conditions, employees perceive these practices as organizational support and reciprocate with higher engagement. We employed cross-sectional research design and survey data that were collected from 281 employees across the banks’ branches of the Nepalese commercial banks using a structured questionnaire. Statistical analyses were conducted through Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS), employing correlation and regression techniques to examine the hypothesized relationships. The findings reveal that there is a positive relationship between training and development and employee engagement (0.731), there is a positive relationship between career development and employee engagement (0.736), there is a positive relationship between performance management and employee engagement (0.681), and there is a positive relationship between job security and employee engagement (0.687). Supporting the SET perspective that reciprocal exchanges foster stronger organizational commitment and discretionary effort. The study contributes to the literature by contextualizing human resource management practices within a South Asian banking sector and offers practical implications for managers seeking to enhance engagement through strategic human resource interventions.
Cycling for Cancer Survival Support: Seeking Mentorship from Margin
This paper explores lived experiences of “Ride to Life: Cycling for Cancer Survival Support” participants and supporters seeking dynamics of mentorship from the margin. Based on grey literature, narrative inquiry, and autoethnographic reflection, it first commences how “ride to life” campaign emanated and sustained collectively from subaltern public sphere. Second, it investigates how the lead riders, cancer survivors, and supportive riders from the bottom adopted resilience during eighteen hundred kilometer cycling across Nepal’s East-west Mid-hill High-way. Finally, it analyzes the stories they generated sharing insights supportive to handle hindrance, overcame precarity, and retrieve resilience to adventure cycling future for cause in Nepal.
Agricultural Cooperatives and Members’ Access to Financial Services in Makawanpur, Nepal
This research aims to investigate the role of agricultural cooperatives in promoting the accessibility of financial services to their members. To achieve the objective, we adopted a survey research design with a total of 123 agricultural cooperative members who were asked to fill out the questionnaire which included 13 items measured on a five-point Likert scale, ranging from 1 (strongly disagree) to 5 (strongly agree). Descriptive analysis (Median=4) showed a positive perception of cooperative members on the services of agricultural cooperatives. Independent samples Mann-Whitney U test (Sig. .445) showed that there was no significant difference in the median scores of male and female members regarding their perceptions of the role of agricultural cooperatives in improving access to financial services. The research findings showed the both male and female agricultural cooperative members’ positive perceptions on the financial services provided by the cooperatives. The financial services include the accessibility of credit services, the ease of loan repayment, the fairness of interest rates, the affordability of the cost of membership, the support for vulnerable groups, and the overall perception of agricultural cooperatives. The agricultural cooperatives were seen to be fair and equitable for all members regardless of gender. The study is significant as it explores how agricultural cooperatives enhance members’ access to financial services, thereby supporting rural livelihoods, economic empowerment, and sustainable development.
Impact of Behavioral Factors on Stock Market Investment Decisions among Young Investors in Biratnagar
The study analyzes the impact of behavioral factors on stock market investment decisions among young investors in Biratnagar. The study examines the relationship between the behavioral factors (anchoring bias, risk propensity, herding behaviour, overconfidence bias), financial literacy and investment decision. The study was based on quantitative research design which used descriptive and explanatory research based on primary data collected among the young investors of stock market. The sample size of study compromised 200 respondents, the data were collected through the survey using the Google Form. The data analysis was performed with use of IBM SPSS Statistics 27 software. The data analysis consisted of demographic analysis, descriptive analysis, reliability tests, correlation analysis and regression analysis. The result of the study shows minimum threshold of reliability for each variable and overall reliability was maintained i.e. greater than 0.70. The study shows a positive relationship among overconfidence bias (β = 0.332, p < 0.001), financial literacy (β = 0.320, p < 0.001), and anchoring bias (β = 0.157, p < 0.05) with investment decision. But in contrast risk propensity (β = −0.011, p > 0.05) and herding behavior (β = 0.060, p > 0.05) shows statistically insignificant relationship with investment decision. The study suggests the young investors are more concerned with cognitive and informational factors making investment decision.
Impact of Fundamental Factors on Stock Prices of Nepalese Commercial Banks
Purpose: This study investigates the relationship between key financial performance indicators and the market price per share (MPS) of commercial banks listed on the Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE). Against the backdrop of increasing investor interest and stock market volatility, the research aims to identify the determinants that significantly influence share valuation in Nepal’s banking sector. Methods: Using a positivist research philosophy, the study employed a quantitative approach and utilizes secondary data from all 19 commercial banks listed in NEPSE over a selected 2015 to 2024 years financial period. Data were extracted from official bank websites, NEPSE reports, and regulatory disclosures. The strength and direction of the association between independent variables, fundamental factors and MPS, were determined using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation analysis, and multiple linear regression modeling. Findings: The findings revealed that book value per share (BVPS) and return on equity (ROE) were positively and significantly associated with MPS, indicating that stronger asset backing and profitability enhanced investor valuation. Dividend per share (DPS) also showed a positive effect but was less statistically significant. The regression model satisfied key assumptions of linearity, normality, and homoscedasticity was confirmed through residual diagnostics including studentized deleted residuals, Cook’s distance, leverage values, and visual plots. Conclusion: The study concludes that key financial indicators, particularly DPS, ROE, BVPS, and firm size, significantly influence the market price per share of listed firms. The findings validate major financial theories such as Signaling Theory, Residual Income Valuation Theory, Agency Theory, and Economies of Scale Theory in explaining stock price behavior. Implications: This study recommends to the policymakers and financial institutions promote transparent and consistent financial reporting, particularly around profitability and equity strength, to enhance market efficiency. Investors are advised to consider long-term performance indicators such as ROE and BVPS in portfolio decisions.
Technology-Enhanced Mathematics Learning: A Systematic Review of Pedagogical Opportunities and Practical Constraints
The use of digital technology in mathematics education has gained significant interest over the past few years with the rapid development of technology and the changing practices in education all around the world. Technology-enhanced learning of mathematics has been increasingly used to enhance conceptual understanding, engagement and problem-solving skills of the students. This study was an attempt to identify and synthesize the pedagogical opportunities of technology enhanced mathematics learning and examine the practical constraints associated with the integration of technology in mathematics education. This research is a systematic review of the studies published between 2020 and 2025 concerning the pedagogical opportunities and practical limitations regarding the use of technology in mathematics education. Following the PRISMA framework, a systematic identification, screening, and analysis of peer-reviewed journal articles were performed. After a rigorous selection process eighteen studies were identified to have met the predefined inclusion criteria, and included in the final review. The selected studies were analyzed with the method of thematic analysis used to identify recurring patterns in the literature and key themes. The results indicated that technology-enhanced mathematics learning provides important pedagogical opportunities such as better conceptual understanding, better student motivation, and development of higher-order thinking skills as well as individualized learning experiences and inclusive education support. However, persistent practical problems were also identified, including insufficient preparedness of teachers, insufficient technological infrastructure, digital inequity, misalignment of curriculum and ethical issues concerning artificial intelligence. The findings in this study conclude that while technology has great potential to transform mathematics education, the effectiveness of technology depends on pedagogical alignment, teacher competence and institutional support. Addressing these constraints is crucial to ensuring sustainable and meaningful integration of technology in mathematics classrooms.
Sustainability Performance: Measuring impact of FinTech and Digital Transformation in Future of Green Finance
Bank and financial institutions help to promote sustainable development through the integration of digital technologies and environmentally responsible financial practices. This study investigates the impact of Digital Transformation, FinTech Adoption, and Green Finance on Sustainability Performance in the banking sector, with a focus on an emerging economy context. Using a survey research design primary data were collected from 401 bank employees during July-September 2025.-. A convenience sampling technique was employed, and the data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and structural equation modeling (SEM). The findings revealed that Digital Transformation had the strongest positive effect on Sustainability Performance, followed by Green Finance and FinTech Adoption. These results indicate that the integration of digital systems, technology-driven financial services, and green financing initiatives significantly enhances banks’ economic, environmental, and social performance. The study highlights the importance of adopting an integrated sustainability strategy that aligns technological innovation with green financial practices. From a practical perspective, the findings offer valuable insights for bank managers and policymakers seeking to strengthen sustainability performance through digital and green initiatives. The study contributes to the growing literature on sustainable banking by demonstrating how digital and FinTech-driven innovations can serve as strategic enablers of sustainability in the financial sector.
Vehicle Trends in Road Traffic Accidents in Kathmandu Valley
Background: Hasty and unplanned urbanization and motorcycle proliferation have turned the Kathmandu valley into a high-friction urban environment. Although the world is trying its best to minimize road traffic injuries (RTIs), the valley still records an increasing trend in road traffic accidents (RTAs), which surpass local infrastructural and regulatory capabilities. Objectives: The main purpose of this research work is to conduct a longitudinal study on road traffic accident (RTA) in the Kathmandu Valley within a span of a twelve-year period (FY 2069/70 to 2081/82). Methods: The research was based on a large sample of over 76 000 instances retrieved with Metropolitan Traffic Police Division (MTPD) to classify the disaggregation of vehicle type, including the Powered Two-Wheelers (PTWs), Light Vehicles, Public Transport and Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs). The longitudinal, retrospective empirical design was used in this study. Haddon Matrix and the Safe System Approach are used to analyze systemic failures in the analysis, and Compound Annual Growth rate (CAGR) and proportion share analysis are the methods of quantifying risk shifts. Findings: Findings indicate a total of 153.6 percent projected rise in total RTAs in the course of the study. The most prevalent parties were the PTWs that are engaged in 71.2 percent of all the incidents which posed a serious vulnerability paradox. At the same time, the HGV engagements increased by 362 percent after 2015 with the reconstruction logistics, which introduced a deadly "kinetic imbalance" in mixed-traffic lanes. The most impressive temporal peak was found between 12:00 PM and 6:00 PM (42.5%), which was due to the Environmental Fatigue. The age group of 16-35 years, was the biggest victim group of 55 percent of the victims, and males die three times as many as females. Conclusion: The Kathmandu Valley is now in the state of the infrastructure safety saturation because it is no longer possible to simply limit increasing rates of injuries with the help of behavioral enforcement. The shift in high-speed fatal crashes to urban injury crisis on large scale requires a paradigm shift to Safe System architecture. Some of the recommendations involve introduction of grade separated freight lanes, special lanes of PTWs and time limits on heavy logistics to alleviate the systemic nature of the current road network, which is demanding.
Spatial and Temporal Distribution of Forest Fires in Mahdesh Province
Forest fires are the main causes of forest degradation worldwide, and Madhesh Province in Nepal is highly vulnerable despite its limited forest cover. This study analyzes the spatial and temporal distribution of forest fires in Madhesh Province and identifies fire risk zones using Remote Sensing (RS) and Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques. Key influencing factors are land cover, slope, aspect, elevation, land surface temperature, proximity to settlements, and to roads were integrated using a Fire Risk Index method. The final risk map classified the area into five categories are very low, low, moderate, high, and very high. Validation was conducted using VIIRS S-NPP fire incidence data from March 2012 to April 2022. A total of 28,619 fire incidents and fire density 0.14 were recorded, with the highest number in 2021 (4,173). Approximately 93% of fires occurred during the hot and dry season (March to mid-June), with March alone accounting for 52%. Parsa District experienced the highest number of incidents. Notably, 67.5% of fires occurred within high and very high-risk zones, which covers 51.75% of the study area, confirming the model’s reliability. The development of a forest fire risk zone map provides crucial data for understanding the forest fire problem and may serve as an effective tool for the Ministry of Forests and Environment, provincial and local governments, and other relevant authorities. The planning, prevention, and mitigation of forest fires will be made easier with the use of this data, improving risk management.
Caste Hierarchy among Hill-Originated Caste Group: A Sociological Study of Kapan Area of Kathmandu Valley
Caste is a major social stratification system in Nepali society. It is a part of social discourse. It has become a burning issue of contemporary Nepali society. In this context, this research aims to identify the caste-based hierarchy in the area of Kapan under the Kathmandu valley. The study followed descriptive and analytical research designs through the qualitative research approach. Qualitative data were adhered using case study and content analysis methods. Thus, primary data were collected from twenty-three case study narratives detailing individuals' experiences with caste based hierarchical relationship in their daily lives. The field study for data collection was carried out in July 2025.Those cases were selected using purposive and snowball sampling methods. Additionally, key informants’ interview method was applied to collect and cross check the information of cases. The content analysis method had been applied as the thematic form to analyze both primary and secondary data. The findings of the study show the continuation of caste hierarchy to shape social relations, albeit with a shift away from more overt forms of de facto exclusion and a greater emphasis on negotiation. Caste relations in Kapan reveal a pattern of ‘continuity within change’, while the ideology of purity and hierarchy remains culturally powerful, the everyday realities of enforcement have softened. This study contributes to a better understanding of how caste-based structures encounter, adapt, and evolve in urban settings.
Knowledge Management Process and Organizational Performance in Nepalese Insurance Companies
In today’s knowledge-based business driven environment, knowledge is considered an important aspect for the organizational success. This study examines the status of knowledge management (KM) practices and its effect on innovation and organizational performance in selected Nepalese insurance companies. A quantitative research approach has been used to achieve the objective of the study. The total number of 12,339 staff members working in insurance companies in Nepal during the study period of 2025 was considered population where only 384 employees were selected as sample using a stratified quota sampling technique and data were collected through structured questionnaires for this study. The collected data for this study were analyzed using SPSS with different descriptive and inferential statistics such as mean, standard deviation, correlation, regression, and ANOVA techniques to achieve the research objectives. The findings of this study show the strong positive relationships among different variables such as knowledge acquisition, knowledge sharing, knowledge use, innovation and organizational performance in selected Nepalese insurance companies. The results from regression analysis indicate knowledge utilization has the strongest direct impact on performance, while innovation plays an important mediating role between two variables knowledge management practices and performance in selected insurance companies of the Nepal. Knowledge acquisition and dissemination of knowledge mainly influence organizational performance indirectly through innovation in these insurance companies. The study supports the knowledge-based view and offers valuable evidence to assist managers and policymakers in enhancing performance in the Nepalese insurance sector.
Skilled Workforce Development and Industrialization in Nepal: Implications for Civic Order
This study aims to elaborate on how developing a skilled workforce accelerates a nation's economic valuation through industrialization, and how this transition fundamentally restructures society to establish civic order, focusing specifically on Nepal. To investigate this, a qualitative, desk-based research design was used. The research relies on secondary data sources, primarily utilizing industrial registration statistics from the Nepal Government’s Department of Industry, alongside international working papers from the Asian Development Bank, national policy reports, and broader academic literature. We analysed this information through a multi-disciplinary approach, synthesizing economic growth theories specifically Kaldor’s Growth Laws with sociological frameworks, and applied comparative case studies of developmental trajectories in East Asian economies. Our findings indicate that sustainable industrialization in agrarian economies like Nepal must initially rely on basic, labour-intensive manufacturing. However, Nepal currently faces an acute domestic skilled labour shortage, forcing a heavy reliance on foreign workers. Furthermore, the analysis reveals that industrialization acts as a societal architect; the necessity to manage a growing, urbanizing workforce directly drives the creation of modern civic institutions, such as public schooling and organized policing, to maintain social order. Ultimately, these findings imply that for successful modernization, Nepal must strategically prioritize labour-intensive manufacturing, heavily institutionalize technical and vocational education (TVET), and actively leverage industrial growth to strengthen the public institutions that sustain civic discipline.
India-Nepal Trade Dynamics and Exchange Rate Pass-through: Time-Varying Analysis of the Parameter
This paper analyses the exchange rate pass-through (ERPT) to consumer prices in Nepal by a Time-Varying Parameter Vector Autoregression (TVP-VAR) model. Adopting a quantitative research design, the study drew on monthly secondary data sourced from the Nepal Rastra Bank, the Central Bureau of Statistics of Nepal, and international databases, covering the period from January 2000 to October 2023. The data were analysed using Bayesian estimation through Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) simulation within the TVP-VAR framework with stochastic volatility. Since Nepal is a country with a fixed exchange rate pegged to the Indian Rupee and it has been integrated through trade at a huge rate with India, it is important to understand how the ERPT works in the monetary policy formulation. Three main findings in our empirical results include the first finding that when there is exchange rate depreciation, there are moderate consumer price increases, and the effect is realized in a period of twelve months. Second, there is a high time dispersion of ERPT, which reduces considerably during the initial stage after the monetary policy credibility improved with the establishment of a monetary policy structure and greater integration of the global value chain. Third, asymmetric shocks are strong with pass-through being much higher during depreciation than when there is appreciation, implying adhesive downward price changes. The research adds to the scanty empirical evidence on ERPT in landlocked developing economies and gives practical initiatives to the inflation-targeting regimen of Nepal Rastra Bank. The results highlight the need to have an effective monetary policy and to strengthen institutions to reduce the inflationary effects of external shocks.
Dialectical Materialism and Social Change: A Marxist Perspective on Societal Transformation
Historical Dialectical Materialism is a Marxist framework that explains social change through the interaction of material conditions and human activity. It posits that history progresses via contradictions within economic and social structures, leading to conflict and transformation. Society’s development is driven by the tension between forces of production and relations of production, ultimately shaping political, cultural, and social institutions. This perspective emphasizes that change is not random but rooted in material realities, highlighting the dynamic, interconnected nature of history and society. The Chief objective is to examine how dialectical materialism explains the mechanisms of social change from a Marxist perspective. This study adopts an explanatory research design to investigate the relevance of dialectical materialism in social change. It primarily relies on qualitative data, collected through a review of selected books, academic articles, and critical texts. The research focuses on both global and Nepali contexts, synthesizing insights to analyze how contradictions within economic and social structures drive societal transformation. This study demonstrates that dialectical materialism, as conceptualized by Marx and Engels, provides a comprehensive framework for analyzing social change through the interplay of material forces and production relations. Class conflicts and contradictions within economic structures drive transformation. Technological advancement, inequality, and neoliberal policies create new tensions, confirming their relevance in transitional societies like Nepal. This study is significant as it applies dialectical materialism to analyze how material conditions and class relations drive social change. This study helps fill the gap in research within both the Nepalese and global contexts. It will be valuable for those seeking to understand social dynamics and for providing insights to guide socio-economic transformation.
Moral Inversion and Apocalyptic Violence in Yeats’s “The Second Coming”
This study aims to identify and analyze moral inversion and apocalyptic violence in W.B. Yeats’s “The Second Coming.” A qualitative documentary research design was employed to accomplish this study. Major poetic excerpts which reflected the moral inversion and apocalyptic violence in the poem were the sources of primary data, whereas relevant books and peer-reviewed journal articles were utilized as the sources of qualitative secondary data. Thematic analysis was applied to interpret the primary data. The findings indicate that Yeats’s “The Second Coming” functions as a powerful metaphor for moral inversion and apocalyptic violence. It reflects the persistent erosion of ethical and democratic values. The poem reveals that the “lack of conviction” among the virtuous is not merely a historical condition but a recurring phenomenon that continues to shape periods of social and political crisis. The analysis reveals that Yeats portrays a world where traditional virtues are systematically replaced by predatory chaos. This article highlights the enduring relevance of Yeatsian prophecy in understanding contemporary global crises.
Determinants of Market Price per Share in Nepalese Commercial Banks: Evidence from Dividend and Earnings Indicators
The study seeks to identify the primary determinants of stock price fluctuations, assess their relative impact, and provide insights for investors, policymakers, and bank management. The study followed a positivist research philosophy and employed a descriptive and casual comparative research design. The population comprise of all 20 Nepalese commercial banks, among them only NEPSE listed 19 commercial banks are selected as the sample of the study using census sampling. Secondary data from annual reports and stock market records were analyzed. The study employed descriptive, correlation, and regression analysis to examine the relationships between financial variables and stock prices. Results indicate significant stock price volatility driven by both bank fundamentals and speculative activity. Earnings per share (EPS) emerged as the most influential factor, showing a strong positive correlation with market price per share (MPS). Dividends per share (DPS) and dividend payout ratio (DPR) positively affected stock prices, while dividend yield ratio (DYR) had a negative impact. The price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio demonstrated limited explanatory power. Regression analysis confirmed that EPS, DPS, and DPR collectively explained a significant portion of stock price variation, whereas DYR and P/E ratio had minor influence. Stock price movements in Nepalese commercial banks are primarily determined by profitability and dividend policies rather than speculative multiples. Investors relied more on actual financial returns, and market valuations were closely tied to earnings and dividend performance. The findings shows that the need for stronger market regulations and transparent dividend frameworks. Investors should prioritize earnings and dividends in decision-making, while bank management should maintain consistent dividend policies to enhance shareholder confidence. Academically, the study contributes to understanding stock price determinants in developing economies and encourages further research on sector-specific and macroeconomic factors.