GMMC Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies
Research Management Cell, Gupteshwor Mahadev Multiple Campus
It is with great pleasure and a renewed sense of purpose that the Editorial Board presents Volume 15, Issue 1 of the GMMC Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies. This issue marks a significant milestone in the journal’s journey as we transition from an annual to a bi-annual publication, reaffirming the commitment of the Research Management Cell of Gupteshwor Mahadev Multiple Campus (GMMC) to promoting high-quality, timely, and impactful interdisciplinary research. This transition reflects the growing research culture within the institution and our continued dedication to providing a dynamic platform for scholarly exchange. This inaugural issue of Volume 15 presents a diverse collection of peer-reviewed articles addressing contemporary themes in management, economics, finance, education, energy, sustainability, technology, literature, and public policy. The contributions offer valuable theoretical perspectives and empirical evidence that respond to emerging national and global challenges while enriching academic discourse. Several studies examine evolving trends in digital finance, organizational behavior, banking performance, green finance, and sustainable business practices, highlighting the growing importance of innovation, financial inclusion, and organizational effectiveness in today’s dynamic business environment. The issue also features research on energy sustainability, green economic development, and strategic resource management, emphasizing the critical role of sustainable development and energy policy in achieving long-term economic resilience. Recognizing the rapid advancement of technology, this volume includes scholarly work on artificial intelligence and digital transformation, demonstrating their increasing influence on industry, innovation, and future research. In addition, contributions on sustainable education and teaching practices provide valuable insights into improving learning outcomes and promoting quality education. The humanities and social sciences are equally represented through research exploring literary interpretation, identity, and cultural narratives, reflecting the journal’s commitment to fostering interdisciplinary scholarship. Furthermore, the inclusion of a paper in the Nepali language reinforces our dedication to promoting linguistic diversity, indigenous knowledge, and locally relevant research. The Editorial Board extends its sincere gratitude to all authors, reviewers, and institutional stakeholders whose dedication and support have made this publication possible. Their valuable contributions have upheld the academic quality and integrity of the journal. As we begin this new chapter of bi-annual publication, we reaffirm our commitment to advancing interdisciplinary research, maintaining rigorous peer-review standards, and disseminating knowledge that contributes to academic excellence and societal development. We hope that Volume 15, Issue 1 will inspire meaningful scholarly dialogue and encourage future research addressing the evolvingneeds of society. Mohan Bhandari Chief Editor GMMC Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies Volume 15, Issue 1, June 2026
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नेपालमा विश्वब्यापिकरणको प्रभाव : अवसर, चूनौति र भावी दिशा
पृष्ठभूमि : विश्वब्यापिकरण समकालीन विश्व एकिकरण तथा विकासको महत्वपूर्ण प्रक्रिया तथा रणनीति एवं आर्थिक वृद्धि र विकासमो इन्जिन हो । विश्वब्यापिकरणको सन् १९८० देखि चर्चा भएपनि यसको सुरुवात १३९ BC पहिलादेखि ६४०० किमी सिल्क रोड मार्फत सिल्क ब्यापारबाट भएको मान्न सकिन्छ । यो विश्व एक ग्राम अवधारणा हो, जसले राष्ट्रहरूबीचको आर्थिक, सामाजिक, राजनीतिक, सांस्कृतिक तथा प्राविधिक अन्तरसम्बन्धलाई तीव्र बनाएको छ । आर्थिक उदारीकरणपछि नेपाल पनि यस प्रक्रियाको अभिन्न हिस्सा बनेको छ । यस अध्ययनले विश्वब्यापिकरणका नवीनतम प्रवृत्ति तथा नेपालमा त्यसका प्रभावहरूको विश्लेषण गर्ने उद्देश्य राखेको छ । अध्ययन विधि ः प्रस्तुत अध्ययन गुणात्मक प्रकृतिको वर्णनात्मक तथा विश्लेषणात्मक अनुसन्धान हो । अध्ययनका लागि पुस्तक, अनुसन्धानात्मक लेख, सरकारी प्रतिवेदन, नीति दस्तावेज तथा अन्तर्राष्ट्रिय संस्थाका प्रकाशनलगायत द्वितीय स्रोतहरूबाट तथ्य तथा सूचना सङ्कलन गरी विषयगत विश्लेषण विधिको प्रयोग गरिएको छ । नतिजा : अध्ययनले विश्वब्याकरणका कारण पर्यटन, वैदेशिक रोजगारी,पूर्वाधार, अन्तराष्ट्रिय ब्यापार,बैँकिङ्ग प्रतिस्पर्धा लगायतमा सुधार आएको देखाएको छ । यद्यपी १५ खर्बको ब्यापार घाटा,प्रतिभापलायन,२५ प्रतिशत कृषियोग्य जमिन बाँझो हुनु, आधारभूत खाद्यान्नमा परनिर्भरता बढ्नु, उत्पादनमूलक उद्योगमा संकुचन आएकोले सुधार गर्न अवलम्बन गर्नुपर्ने उपाय बारेमा नीतिगत सुझाव प्रदान गरिएको छ । निष्कर्ष ः भूमण्डलीकरण नेपालका लागि अवसर र चुनौती दुवैको स्रोत बनेको छ । यसको लाभलाई अधिकतम उपयोग गर्न उत्पादनमूलक क्षेत्रको विकास, निर्यात प्रवद्र्धन, मानव पूँजी सुदृढीकरण तथा प्रभावकारी नीतिगत व्यवस्थापन आवश्यक देखिन्छ । नवीनताः प्रस्तुत अध्ययनले विश्वब्यापिकरणका आर्थिक पक्षमा मात्र सीमित नरही आर्थिक, सामाजिक, राजनीतिक, सांस्कृतिक तथा प्राविधिक आयामहरूको एकीकृत विश्लेषण गर्दै नेपालको समग्र अनुभवलाई समेट्ने प्रयास गरेको छ ।
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Impact of Merger on Financial Performance of Commercial Banks in Nepal
This study attempts to analyze the effect of merger on financial performance of Nepalese commercial banks before and after merger. It employs both casual comparative and descriptive research design. As a sample there is taken three commercial banks and study is based on secondary data between the periods of 2012/13 - 2023/24 AD. Mean, standard deviation of comparatively pre-post-merger, Pearson correlation and paired sample t-test of before and after merger financial performance is substitutability tested using eight independent variable Return of Assets (ROA), Market per Share (MPS), Non-Performing Loan to total Ratio (NPL), Earning per Share (EPS), Return on equity (ROE), Cash to total deposit ratio (CDR), Net profit margin ratio (NPM), and Capital adequacy ratio (CDR). The analysis of impact of merger on financial performance of sample banks disclose ROA, MPS, NPL, EPS, ROE, NPM are decreased after the merger only CDR, and CAR increased after the merger. The CAR ratio of Siddhartha Banks seems to be significant improved after the merger. The NPM ratio of NIC Asia Banks has significantly decreased after the merger. In the case of Siddhartha Bank Limited it is found poor performance in ROA, ROE, EPS, and NPM after the merger. The study concludes that, merger is not proved as a significant tool to improve the financial performance of banks.
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Adoption of Green Finance in Nepal: Perspectives from Employees in Commercial Banks
Green finance has developed as an emerging concept to enhance sustainable development through environmentally responsible financial activities. Despite increasing regulations and development of green finance facilities in Nepalese commercial banks, little evidence is provided on what factors influence employees’ use of green finance in Nepalese commercial banks. This study intends to identify determinants of adopting green finance in Nepalese commercial banks based on green finance awareness, bank level initiative, regulatory framework and behavioral intention. The research uses quantitative approach with descriptive and explanatory survey design. A structured questionnaire was distributed among 160 employees working in 20 commercial banks at Pokhara Valley. Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis and multiple regression analysis. The findings of this study shows that green finance awareness, initiatives taken by banks, regulatory framework and behavioral intention have a strong positive correlation with green finance adoption. Bank initiatives are the best predictor followed by green finance awareness while regulation and behavioral intention also have significant positive relationship. However, lack of employee training and awareness on green finance are reported to be the challenges faced by the employees. Thus, providing employee-based evidence for determining the factors of adoption of green finance in Nepal, the paper provides some insights in the growing literature of sustainable banking and practical implications for policymakers and banking institutions. Thus the study highlight that increasing employee’s awareness and expanding institutions initiative, strengthening the regulatory provisions and fostering positive behavioral intention can increase the adoption of green finance practices in Nepalese commercial banks.
The Integration of Artificial Intelligence in Apparel Fashion Industry: A Bibliometric Analysis
This research paper is an exploration on the use of artificial intelligence in the apparel textile industry. The keywords which were used to retrieve relevant documents included Textile, Fashion industry, Apparel and Artificial intelligence, relevant documents were downloaded in authentic online databases, which included Web of Science, and Scopus. The bibliometric analysis of peer-reviewed articles was conducted on 234 articles. Data merging, summarization, and visualization of a network were done with the help of tools like, Biblioshiny and VOSviewer. The results show great and increasing academic interest in this field. The number of authors for 234 articles was 732, which is an indicator of active research cooperation. China, Spain and Hong Kong are the top in terms of publication output and citation impact. Donghua University is the most fruitful institution having 127 publications in the data. The co-occurrence analysis keyword reveals that the most common and most closely related term is that of Artificial intelligence. Analysis of the sources reveals that the journal which has issued the most articles related to the topic is the Textile research journal (14), next are the International journal of clothing science and technology and journal of the textile institute. There are also high levels of international cooperation as evidenced in the area of network visualization. A critical analysis of the top ten most pertinent articles shows that artificial intelligence has evolved into an operational support solution to a strategic facilitator that improves creativity, decision- making, efficiency, and sustainability throughout the textile and fashion value chain. It is on this basis that a conceptual framework is suggested to direct future research. The research adds to the already existing debates about sustainable practices in the fashion industry and a basis to push the digital innovation forward to satisfy the increasing need in sustainable and customized products.
Hydropower Landscape and Energy Diplomacy as Strategic Priorities of Nepal
Nepal’s hydropower development stands as one of the most influential energy transition cases in South Asia. Over the span of two decades, it has transformed from a state of chronic power shortages and reliance on electricity imports to, as of early 2025, a major actor with an installed power capacity of nearly 3,591 megawatts, well-positioned to emerge as a regional energy exporter. This paper conducts its analysis centered on the core analytical perspective of “energy statecraft”, a framework that refers to the proactive deployment of energy resources to advance diplomatic goals and reduce structural vulnerabilities. The study, based on a systematic analysis of Nepal’s 15th and 16th Periodic Plans, bilateral energy agreements and secondary literature on the nexus of energy economics and South Asian geopolitics, finds a substantial gap in the existing scholarship. While hydropower development in Nepal has been a subject of much technical and economic analysis, its instrumentalization as a foreign policy tool remains theoretically underdeveloped. This article addresses this gap by analyzing how energy export commitments, including 10,000 MW long-term supply agreements with India and 9,000 MW with Bangladesh, have been incorporated into Nepal’s diplomatic stance and regional positioning. The analysis reveals an eminent stress between Nepal’s statecraft ambitions and its structural limitations. Export reliability is constrained by seasonal generation asymmetries, limited cross-border transmission infrastructure, and asymmetric geopolitical dynamics of the India-Nepal-China triangle. Also, the intermittent governance vacuums and absence of stable energy policy frameworks undermine investor confidence and the sustainability of long-term projects. The study argues for a conceptual and functional shift in hydropower from a resource for domestic development to an active tool for projecting national power, but contends that this transformation is institutionally unsupported. Turning energy potential into credible statecraft requires more than megawatt capacity but demands a coherent governance architecture, transmission sovereignty, and policy continuity across electoral cycles.
Emotional Intelligence and Employees Job Performance of Commercial Banks in Pokhara Metropolis
The study explores the behaviour constructs of emotional intelligence and job performance of the employees working in the commercial banks of Pokhara Metropolitan City, Nepal, with the aim to find out the impact of emotional intelligence on their job performance. In this study, emotional intelligence has been considered by defining its various dimensions such as self-awareness, self- regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills. Job performance, meanwhile, has been measured in terms of task performance and contextual performance. The study applied the method of simple random sampling for the selection of 249 participants for analysis from eight different commercial banks in Pokhara. Primary data were collected directly from employees working in commercial banks in Pokhara through structured questionnaires administered via Google Forms according to the theoretical model of Goleman on emotional intelligence. Data have been analyzed using multiple regression technique by employing SPSS software version 25. The findings of the study revealed that emotional intelligence has a statistically significant positive impact on job performance, and social skills emerged as the most important predictor. Similarly, manager empathy and self-regulation were found comparatively insignificant. The analysis revealed that there is a significant effect of the dimensions of emotional intelligence on performance at work. This study provides practical recommendations for banking executives and human resource managers in order to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the workforce of Nepali commercial banks.
Energy Structure and Decoupling Dynamics in Emerging Economies: An Empirical Analysis of Green Growth Trajectories
This study uses panel regression analysis and the Tapio elasticity framework to evaluate green growth trajectories while investigating energy structure and decoupling dynamics in emerging economies. Elasticity trends from 2000 to 2024 show wildly disparate results: nations like China, Ethiopia, Rwanda, South Africa, and Uganda show strong decoupling, in line with the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC), while nations like Brazil, Niger, Mozambique, Vietnam, and India show negative decoupling, indicating a reliance on fossil fuels and lax regulation. In keeping with innovation theory, the random-effects GLS regression (overall R2=0.438R^2 = 0.438; Wald χ² = 98.15, p <.001) shows that ICT goods exports are a positive driver of adjusted net savings, while internet usage and CO2 emissions have negative effects, highlighting the focus on governance in institutional theory. Savings are significantly increased by GDP growth, which reflects transitional EKC dynamics. Overall, the results emphasize that guiding emerging countries toward sustainable decoupling and long-term green growth requires strong institutions, coherent policies, and innovation-driven transitions.
Determinants of Cashless Transaction Adoption: Evidence from Commercial Bank Customers in Pokhara
This study aims to investigate the determinants influencing the adoption of cashless payments in commercial banks in Nepal, with special reference to digital payment usage in Pokhara Metropolitan City. The study employed a quantitative study design that involved both descriptive and causal comparative research design. A structured questionnaire, using a 5-point Likert scale. Data were collected from 450 respondents and the measure of perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, and personal innovativeness. Respondents were selected through convenience sampling of markets, learning institutions, local businesses and financial service centers. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis and multiple regression to examine the relationship between independent variables and cashless transaction adoption. The results showed that the three determinants have a positive influence on the adoption of cashless transactions. Perceived usefulness was significant predictor among them, which indicates that the users are more inclined to adopt digital payment system. Perceived ease of use and personal innovativeness had a significant positive influences on cashless transaction adoption. The implication of the study are relevant for banks and financial institutions(BFIs), policymakers and technology providers on how to facilitate the usability and innovation of digital payment system. Future research can examine how emerging technologies such as blockchain and biometric authentication influence the adoption of cashless payments. In particular, digital financial literacy should be incorporated as a moderating variable to provide deeper understanding of adoption cashless transactions over time.
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Modelling Sustainable Mathematics Teaching and Learning in Nepal
Sustainable mathematics education is crucial in the development of the sustained mathematical knowledge, confidence and understanding in real life contexts of students. However, mathematics learning in Nepal continues to be hindered by mathematics anxiety, having insufficient teaching resources, teacher- dominated teaching style, and an examination-driven assessment system. A few studies have looked at these aspects separately, but few studies have taken into account cognitive, affective, pedagogical and contextual aspects together in a comprehensive framework for sustainable mathematics learning. This study aims to overcome this limitation by creating the model for sustainable mathematics teaching and learning in Nepali secondary school. The convergent, mixed methods approach was used. 102 secondary level students from public and private schools were selected in Nepal for quantitative and qualitative data collection. The data were collected by using structured questionnaires, open-ended responses, interviews and classroom observations. Descriptive statistics, correlation, and multiple regression analysis were used to analyze quantitative data, and thematic analysis was used to analyze qualitative data. The results indicated that there were negative relationships between mathematics anxiety and students’ motivation, confidence, and involvement in mathematics learning. On the other hand, student-centered teaching method and learning environment and good use of contextual resources were positively related to sustainable mathematics learning. From the regression analysis, it was found that the teaching-learning practices, learning resources, and student motivation were significant predictors of sustainable mathematics learning. Qualitative results also showed that examination pressure, insufficient teaching materials, and traditional teaching pedagogies affected students’ learning experience. These results provide the basis for the development of a sustainable mathematics education model consisting of four inter woven dimensions, namely Pedagogical Empowerment, Affective Support, Contextual Resource Utilization, and Systemic Feedback Loops. Based on the results, the study suggests some shifts in pedagogical practices that are necessary to promote sustainable mathematics learning in the context of Nepal, which include shift from examining-centred and teacher-led approaches to learner centred approaches in mathematics teaching, continuous professional development of teachers, contextualization of resources, and change in assessment from summative to formative assessment practices.
Interpreting Lee’s Rose: Symbolism as a Bridge between Memory and Identity
Employing the qualitative text-centered approach with thematic and interpretative structured analytical design, this study has examined Lee’s (1986) poetic collection, Rose examining “rose” as a complex, multi-layered symbol to bridge present reality with the memory of the past. The paper aims to seek out how the poet reflects his bicultural experiences in a diverse cultural background by using different symbols and imageries. The research has addressed the drawback of conventional, romanticized judgement of the flower creating a gap by inspecting Lee’s use of images to navigate the trauma of diasporic life. Close reading of the text’s structural design has indicated that the rose functions as “doomed profane flower” and linguistic homonym for “rising” which allows the object to transition from symbol of decay into a mechanism for spiritual revival. The implication of these symbols elevates the domestic elements to the sacred sensory for the “thousand-mile-sadness” of displacement. The study concludes that symbolism in the poem serves as profound tool to transform the fragility of life being in diasporic nationality into a resilient bridge between the finite reality of loss and the eternal nature of love.
It is with great pride and enthusiasm that the Editorial Board presents the fourteenth volume of this annual research publication. This volume reflects the continued commitment of the Research Management Cell of Gupteshwor Mahadev Multiple Campus (GMMC) to fostering academic excellence, interdisciplinary scholarship, and a vibrant research culture within the institution. Volume 14 brings together a diverse collection of peer-reviewed articles covering a wide range of academic areas, including management, economics, education, health sciences, literature, and the social sciences. The studies address timely and relevant issues such as consumer behavior and pricing strategies, financial inclusion through fintech, microfinance and women’s empowerment, and the role of remittance in Nepal’s economic growth. These contributions offer meaningful empirical evidence and theoretical perspectives that enrich academic discourse and inform policy and practice. Important governance, health, and education-related themes are also explored in this volume. Research examining public experiences of corruption in service delivery highlights institutional challenges, while a study on parental knowledge and attitudes toward childhood strabismus provides valuable insights for public health awareness. Contributions on mentoring learners beyond formal classroom contexts emphasize innovative and learner-centered pedagogical practices. The volume further includes scholarly works in literature, ethics, and humanism, alongside research on green employee empowerment and sustainable human resource management, reflecting growing global concerns for ethical leadership and environmental responsibility. The inclusion of a contribution in the Nepali language reinforces the publication’s commitment to linguistic diversity and local scholarship. The Editorial Board extends sincere gratitude to all authors, reviewers, and institutional stakeholders for their valuable contributions. As this fourteenth volume is released, we reaffirm our dedication to advancing interdisciplinary research and scholarly excellence in the years ahead.
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प्रस्तुत लेख गुणात्मक अनुसन्धानमा आधारित छ । यस लेखमा मानव मनको स्वभावका बारेमा चर्चा गरिएको छ । मुख्यतः पुस्तकालयीय अध्ययनमा आधारित यस लेखमा मानव मनका सम्बन्धमा पूर्वका श्रीमद्भगवद्गीता र श्रीमद्भागवतम्जस्ता ग्रन्थमा व्यक्त गरिएको विचारका बारेमा विमर्श गरिएको छ । मानव मनलाई उल्लिखित ग्रन्थबाहेक पूर्वका अन्य शास्त्रीय ग्रन्थमा कुन रूपमा चित्रण गरिएको छ भन्ने कुराको समेत खुलासा प्रस्तुत आलेखमा गरिएको छ । मन नै मानवका हरेक क्रिया तथा प्रतिक्रियाहरूको जनक हो । एक हिसाबले भन्दा मन नै मानवको सुख र दुःखको जननी हो । तसर्थ मन शान्त हुँदा मानिसहरू दिव्य आनन्दको अवस्थामा रहन्छन् भने मन अशान्त हुँदा मानिसहरू बेचैनी वा तनावको अवस्थामा रहन्छन् । यस दृष्टिले हेर्दा मन नै हाम्रो शत्रु र मित्रु दुवै हो । शान्त मन हाम्रो मित्रु हो भने अशान्त मन हाम्रो शत्रु हो । पूर्वीय गीता र भागवतम्जस्ता शास्त्रीय ग्रन्थमा भक्तियोग, ज्ञानयोग र ध्यानयोगका माध्यमबाट मनलाई कसरी शान्त र आनन्दित तुल्याउन सकिन्छ भन्ने कुरा उल्लेख गरिएको छ । यस आलेखमा उल्लिखित पूर्वीय शास्त्रीय ग्रन्थहरूलाई अध्ययनको केन्द्र बनाई मानव मनको स्वभाव र यसलाई शान्त पार्ने विषयमा शास्त्रीय ग्रन्थहरूको सहारा लिई उक्त जिज्ञासालाई समाधान गर्ने प्रयास गरिएको छ । यस अध्ययनबाट मानव मनको स्वभाव र मन कसरी शान्त राख्न सकिन्छ भन्ने विषयमा जानकारी राख्न चाहने अध्येता तथा जिज्ञासुहरू लाभान्वित हुनेछन् भन्ने अपेक्षा गरिएको छ ।
Financial Inclusion Among Women Through FinTech in Pokhara
Financial inclusion creates opportunities for women’s economic participation. The aim of the study is to examine the impact of Fintech adoption on financial inclusion among women. Hence this study used a convenience sampling method to collect data form 216 respondents. Descriptive as well as causal research design was employed to conduct the study. Multiple regression analysis revealed that facilitating conditions, effort expectancy, and personal innovativeness determined the intention to use FinTech among women. In addition, FinTech adoption can be a catalyst to improve financial inclusion among women. The study also claims the partial mediation of actual use of FinTech in the relationship between intention to use FinTech and financial inclusion. The study offers valuable insights for policymakers and financial institutions regarding the association between Fintech and financial inclusion.
Mentoring EFL Learners Beyond the Formal Classroom Context
Mentoring beyond the formal classroom context has been a good practice for relational experience for both EFL teachers and learners around the world. As it is an emerging practice here in Nepal, this has brought an enlightenment on the relationship between teachers and students. This study displays an emerging practice of mentoring in EFL within the Nepali context. Carrying out semi-structured interviews with five English educators and three students from national and international institutions, the research reveals that mentoring beyond the formal classroom context offers a significant benefit such as teacher-student rapport, enhanced motivation, improvement on the language confidence. The research also demonstrates some challenges such as limited exposure and practice, time management and lack of institutional initiatives. The B.Ed English syllabus does not include the mentoring as a professional development for teacher trainers too which trains a lot of teacher trainees all over Nepal. The research recommends for a planned relationship- based mentoring practice focusing on the enhancement for both teachers and students. This research suggests educators, stakeholders, policymakers to intergrade intentional mentoring practice within the formal and beyond the formal EFL classroom context in Nepal.
Role of Microfinance Services on Enhancing Quality of Life of Women in Pokhara Metropolitan City
Microfinance services including savings, insurance, remittance, and microcredit primarily target women, empowering them to generate income, create assets, and achieve greater financial independence. This study examines the role of microfinance in fostering the quality of life of female clients with a specific focus on microfinance institutions in Pokhara metropolitan, Kaski, Nepal. A sample of 171 respondents was selected from unknown population using a convenience sampling method. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation, and linear regression techniques. The findings reveal that microfinance significantly improves the economic status of women by enabling them to start small businesses, increase savings, and enhance consumption. Among the different dimensions, financial literacy and micro-enterprise development emerged as the most influential factors, showing significant positive effects on quality of life. While microcredit contributes modestly, micro-insurance demonstrates a weaker influence, suggesting limited perceived benefi ts. Overall, microfinance initiatives strengthen financial capabilities but only moderately translate into improved quality of life, indicating the need for more comprehensive and targeted interventions. The results underscore the importance of microfinance in driving societal and national development, offering valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders in microfinance institutions (MFIs).
Assessment of the Effect of Remittance on the Economic Growth of Nepal: A Time Series Analysis
This study examines the impact of remittance on the economic growth of Nepal employing time series data. The analysis has incorporated the macroeconomic variables such as GDP, Remittance (REM), Balance of Payments (BOP), Private Consumption (PCO), and Private Investment (PIN), using 48 years observations. Unit root tests indicated that the variables are integrated at mixed levels of I (0) and I (1), justifying the use of ARDL model. A structural break in 2010 was incorporated using a dummy variable. The long-run results indicated a significant negative relationship between remittance and GDP, where a percentage increase in remittance reduces GDP by 0.155 percent. BOP, PCO, and PIN exhibited positive but statistically insignificant long-run effects. In the short run, remittance has a significant negative effect in the current year but significant positive impacts in its first and second lags. The error correction term is -0.5972, suggesting that nearly 60 percent of the short-run disequilibrium adjusts back to long-run equilibrium annually. A significant positive time trend and structural break influence were also observed through the analysis of the data. The model was approved through all the major diagnostic and stability tests, reflecting the reliable results. Findings suggest that while remittance may support short-term consumption, they do not have positive contribution in the long-term economic growth.
Lived Experiences of Corruption in Public Service Delivery: A Phenomenological Study in Butwal, Nepal
The level of corruption in Nepal in the public services is still eroding institutions and the trust of the people. This paper employed phenomenology and focused on how the general public perceive and feel corruptness within the government agencies. It presumes that the experience of users can shed light on how corruption is continued to exist. We applied phenomenology in order to investigate actual experiences of corruption. Convenience sampling was used to select five service users of government agencies from Butwal Sub-Metropolitan City, who were interviewed using semi-structured questions. Our interview was manually coded and employing of principal-agent, collective action, institutional, and game theories to interpret the fi ndings. Four main themes were found. The former: the users perceive corruption as a time-saving tool. They perceive informal payments as an instrument of accelerating processes and lessening the losses incurred due to the bureaucracy. The second theme: bureaucracy is so complicated, numerous documents, and lack of transparency present circumstances such that promote corruption. The third theme: corruption is a new way of life. Businesses and citizens depend on informal payments in terms of how services should operate. Corrupt behaviour is accepted by people though they are aware that the system is being damaged by it. The fourth theme: the users are extremely intensified and discontented with the government and officials attribute the bad progress in economy to the overbearing prevalence and low regulation. The paper demonstrates that corruption does not increase because the laws against corruption are not in place; it is just a preference of the structures that makes people believe that corruption is a reasonable response to bureaucratic hurdles and government interference. Reforms should be done to cut down corruption, ease the processing, increase transparency, accountability, and reasonable compensation; not just to penalize individuals in already corrupt system.
Pricing Strategies and Their Impact on Consumer Buying Behavior: An Empirical Study of Kathmandu’s Organized FMCG Retail Market
This study aims to determine the impact of pricing strategies on consumer buying behavior on FMCG products inside Kathmandu valley. The causal and descriptive research design was employed in the study to investigate the cause-and-effect relationship between pricing strategies and consumer buying behavior on FMCG products inside Kathmandu Valley. Data was gathered from 250 respondents through structured questionnaire distributed via Google forms and convenience sampling was used. Quantitative analysis involved both descriptive and inferential statistics, employing the SPSS. Out of the five pricing strategies considered for the study, discount, psychological, competitive and penetration pricing had a positive and significant impact on consumer buying behavior. However, bundle pricing didn’t have a positive significant impact on consumer buying behavior. This study contributes valuable insight to retails determining correct pricing strategy for different products. The application of this study is extensive. Industry, professional, researchers and policymakers by advancing understanding and best practices in FMCG and retail industries, collectively fostering a more responsible offering.
Knowledge And Attitude on Strabismus of Parents wiith Strabismic Children
Strabismus is a common pediatric ocular condition that affects binocular vision and is associated with significant psychosocial consequences. In developing countries such as Nepal, delayed diagnosis and treatment are frequently attributed to poor parental awareness and prevalent cultural misconceptions. Assessing parental knowledge and attitudes is therefore crucial for improving early intervention and visual outcomes. This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2023 to December 2024 at Lumbini Eye Institute & Research Center (LEIRC), Rupandehi, Nepal, to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of parents of children with strabismus. A total of 143 parents of children aged 1–16 years were recruited using convenience sampling. Data were collected using a pretested, structured questionnaire consisting of six knowledge-based and seven attitude-based items. Knowledge scores ≥4 were categorized as “good knowledge,” and attitude scores ≥5 were considered a “positive attitude.” Data were analyzed using SPSS version 22. Findings showed that only 29.4% of respondents had good knowledge, whereas 61.5% demonstrated a positive attitude toward strabismus. Most parents recognized strabismus as a treatable condition (95.1%) and perceived it as a cosmetic concern (73.4%). Spectacles were the most commonly identifi ed treatment option (64.3%). No statistically significant association was found between knowledge and attitude (p = 0.486). In conclusion, although parental knowledge regarding strabismus was limited, attitudes were generally positive. This may reflect strong cultural values related to family care and growing trust in institutional eye care services. Community-based health education and school health programs could play a crucial role in enhancing early detection and timely management of strabismus in Nepal.
Functional And Humanistic Clues As Determinants of Consumer Loyalty: A Study of Fast Food Restaurant Business, Pokhara
Consumer experience is a determinant that assists in attaining the customer satisfaction, customer loyalty, and customer retention. The fast-food restaurant segment has been one of service sectors that has experienced unprecedented expansion due to the rising number of local and foreign visitors and the shifting lifestyle trend of urban consumers. The experience of the consumer is usually defined by the reaction to three main aspects of the dining experience the physical space, the service quality and behavior of staff, and the quality of food delivered. The main objective of this study is to identify the relationship between functional cues and humanistic cues on consumer loyalty in fast food restaurant business along with intermediating role of perceived quality. The research adopted a positivism paradigm and quantitative research design. The research was conducted through deductive approach by relying on existing theories and hypotheses. The sample size of 300 respondents was chosen by use of convenience sampling among the inhabitants of Pokhara. The respondents were the customers of fast food restaurants that are available within Pokhara valley. A structured questionnaire based on functional and humanistic cues was used to collect data. The mediation effect of perceived quality with consumer loyalty is analyzed. PLS-SEM was used to analyze the relationship between variables and verification of hypotheses of the suggested model. This study result indicated that Humanistic clues and Functional clues play a significant role in consumer loyalty. Whereas, the mediation effect of perceived quality between Humanistic clues and consumer loyalty is substantial but the mediation effect of perceived quality between Functional clues and consumer loyalty is non-significant. Thus, the study conclude that the customer retention and their positive word of mouth to the other customers relies on the way the service provider treat the customers and the quality and physical appearance of the products delivered to them.
A Systematic Literature Review on Green Employee Empowerment and Green Human Resource Management
This study aims to systematically review and synthesize the existing literature on Green Employee Empowerment (GEE) within the context of Green Human Resource Management (GHRM). A Systematic Literature Review (SLR) was conducted following the PRISMA framework. Data were collected from the Dimensions database using the search strings “Green,” “Employee,” “Empowerment,” and “Human Resource Management,” focusing on journal articles published between 2016 and 2025. A total of 936 articles were initially identified, and after rigorous screening and eligibility assessment, 59 studies were included for synthesis. Thematic analysis was employed to extract patterns and conceptual relationships. The review identified six major themes: (a) GHRM practices and organizational outcomes, (b) employee empowerment and proenvironmental behavior, (c) leadership and psychological empowerment, (d) training and knowledge management, (e) work-life balance and employee retention, and (f) innovation, creativity, and green performance. Each theme demonstrated that empowerment fosters environmental responsibility, innovation, and sustainable organizational behavior through supportive HR systems and participatory cultures. The findings suggest that GEE serves as a strategic enabler of sustainability by enhancing employee engagement, green innovation, and environmental citizenship. Organizations should integrate empowerment-based HR practices and leadership support to strengthen sustainable performance and green transformation.
It is with immense pride and pleasure that the editorial team of GMMC presents the thirteenth edition of the annual research publication, “GMMC Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies”. This milestone marks the culmination of dedicated efforts from the Research Management Cell of GMMC, which has consistently upheld a tradition of academic excellence and scholarly contributions for over thirteen years. Continuing its legacy, this journal serves as a testament to our unwavering commitment to fostering a research-oriented culture among our faculty and contributors. Each of the 11 research articles included in this volume embodies the highest standards of academic rigor, adhering to international norms and cutting-edge methodologies. The articles are drawn from a wide array of disciplines, including management, literature, pedagogy, culture, and philosophy, ensuring the journal stays true to its interdisciplinary mission. As an academic institution, GMMC remains steadfast in its pursuit of knowledge creation and dissemination. This publication not only provides a platform for researchers to share their work but also inspires our faculty and scholars to keep exploring, questioning, and contributing to the expanding horizons of knowledge. By facilitating research and publication, GMMC emphasizes its role as a dynamic institution where learning transcends traditional boundaries, encouraging educators and researchers to venture beyond fixed curricula and established frameworks. In this thirteenth volume, the diversity and depth of the included research reflect our contributors' relentless curiosity and academic integrity. These works aim to bridge theoretical understanding with practical applications, offering insights that enrich the academic community and benefit society at large. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all contributors, whose scholarly works form the backbone of this journal. Our sincere thanks also go to the Campus Administration, Peer Review Team, Campus Management Committee, Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave Management Committee, and all stakeholders for their unwavering support and collaboration. It is through their collective efforts that this journal continues to thrive as a beacon of academic achievement. As we release this edition on the eve of December 31, 2024, we look forward to sustaining this tradition of excellence and anticipate even more impactful contributions in the years to come. Editorial Board GMMC Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies Volume 13, December 2024
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लेखनाथ पौड्याल र उनको ‘पिँजराको सुगा’ कवितामा अभिव्यञ्जित भाव
लेखनाथ पौड्याल र उनको पिँजराको सुगा कवितामा अभिव्यञ्जित भावको विश्लेषण गर्ने उद्देश्यमा यस अनुसन्धानात्मक लेख आधारित छ । यस लेखको अध्ययनको प्रमुख क्षेत्र लेखनाथ पौड्याल र पिँजराको सुगा कविता रहेको छ । यस अध्ययनको समस्याका रूपमा लेखनाथ पौड्यालको कवि व्यक्तित्व र पिँजराको सुगा कवितामा अभिव्यञ्जित भावको स्वरूपलाई लिइएको छ । लेखनाथको कवि व्यक्तित्व र कविता यात्रा एवम् पिँजराको सुगा कवितामा अभिव्यञ्जित भाव कस्तो रहेको छ यस जिज्ञासालाई यस अध्ययनमा निरूपण गरिएको छ । लेखनाथले माध्यमिककालीन श्रृङ्गारिक प्रकृति र अनुवाद रूपान्तरणको परम्पराबाट फुत्कँदै परिष्कारवादी धाराका माध्यमबाट नेपाली कवितालाई आधुनिक युगमा प्रवेश गराएको पाइन्छ । लेखनाथका कवितामा युगीन सामाजिक चेतना, आध्यात्मिक चेत, सामाजिक एवम् आध्यात्मिक सुधार, पुनर्जागरणको प्रयत्न एवम् बौद्धिकताको समन्वय तथा भाषा र लयको सहज एवम् परिष्कृत प्रयोग पाइन्छ । पौड्यालको पिँजराको सुगा कविता अभिधात्मक रूपमा बालपाठ्यसामग्री पिँजरामा थुनिएको सुगाको कथा भए पनि व्यञ्जनात्मक रूपमा सहरीया सामन्ती परिवेशको पिँजरामा बाँच्न विवश कवि जीवन, राणाशासनको निरङ्कुश शासनको पिँजरामा थुनिएको नेपाली समाज एवम् सांसारिक पिँजरामा परेर बन्धनीय जीवनलाई यस लेखमा तइभ्वमीमांसाका रूपमा लिइएको छ । गुणात्मक प्रकृतिको यस लेखमा व्याख्यापरक विधिमार्फत विश्लेषण गरी ज्ञान निर्माण गरिएको छ । उद्देश्यमूलक नमुना छनौट पद्धतिको प्रयोग गरी प्राथमिक र द्वितीयक स्रोतका सामग्रीहरूबाट प्राप्त तथ्य एवम् प्रमाणका आधारमा लेखनाथ पौड्याल र उनको पिँजराको सुगा कविताको विश्लेषण गरिको छ । पुस्तकालयीय कार्यमार्फत सामग्री सङ्कलन गरी अध्ययन गरिएको यस अध्ययनमा कविलाई माध्यमिक कालको श्रृङ्गारिक धारामा उदाएर नेपाली कवितामा आधुनिकता ल्याउने कवि व्यक्तित्वको रूपमा चित्रण गरिएको छ । पँजराको सुगा कवितामा परिवर्तन र मुक्तिको चाहना राखिएको र उत्पीडनको विरोध गर्दै स्वतन्त्रताको आकाङ्क्षा एवम् आध्यात्मिक जीवनप्रतिको मोह अभिव्यञ्जित भएको छ भन्ने यस अध्ययनको निष्कर्ष रहेको छ ।
Examining the Behavioral Biases Influencing on ESG Investing: A Systematic Review using PRISMA
The aims of this study are to review past research on the relationship between behavioral biases and decision making in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investing. Data were collected from three databases (Google Scholar, JSTOR and Research 4 Life) using PRISMA in the context of behavioral biases and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investing time frame from 2013 to 2023. The 2013 was the base period due to the cause of the Governance pillar in the Eurozone for ESG investing. The inclusion criteria for this review were publication published in the English language, open access articles, and only peer-reviewed articles. The findings of the study show that there is a significant relationship between behavioral biases and ESG investing. The researcher found that there are more male participants in the capital market and 35 distinct biases examining the ESG decision by investors with non-probability techniques to collect samples. This study extends the existing knowledge on the past study being research related to a relationship between behavioral biases and ESG investing. This study assists researchers, academicians, and policymakers in understanding the behavioral biases of investors while making ESG investing decisions. Further research can be carried out by researchers in other contexts pension funds, and life insurance as there are no studies undertaken in these areas.
environmental, social and governance (ESG) investing
Employees’ Perception of Green Banking Practices in Nepal
Green banking differs from traditional banking as it focuses on promoting environment-friendly banking. Nowadays, due to the huge deterioration of the environment, not only human beings but also the day-to-day business environment suffers adversely. The objective of this research paper is to assess employee perceptions towards green banking practices in Nepalese commercial banks. Furthermore, the paper aims to assess the mechanisms of green banking practices, to analyze the impact of banking activities on green banking practices, to analyze the relationship between banking activities and green banking practices, to analyze the significant difference between green banking practices and to assess the challenges of green banking practices in Nepal from the employees’ angle. This study used descriptive and casual comparative research design and it took a sample of 390 employees working in three sample commercial banks. The independent variables are operational activities; employee-related practices, customer-related practices and bank’s policy-related practice whereas the dependent variable is green banking practices. Based on the responses of employee, it is concluded that debit cards, mobile banking, credit cards, online banking, and electronic payment are common in Nepalese commercial banks. From the correlation and regression analysis, it was found that the independent variable has a positive significant relationship to the green banking practices. The practice of green banking is more or less similar among the sample banks and there is a lack of evidence of difference between gender and green banking practice in Nepal. Most of the employees of sample banks perceive that the major barrier for the effective practice of green banking is customers’ insufficient awareness. Hence the green banking practice is more or less compulsory for making their institution competitive so the apex body should formulate effective policies and customer and employees too aware immediately as soon as possible.
Exploring Issues for Sustainable Smart City Development: A Resident-Centric Case Study in Hetauda
This study explores the challenges and opportunities for sustainable smart city development in Hetauda, Nepal, through a resident-centric approach. Using surveys and interviews, it investigates urban issues, residents’ preferences for smart solutions, and their readiness to adopt new technologies. The findings reveal critical challenges, including inadequate healthcare, traffic congestion, poor drainage systems, lack of higher education institutions, and limited digitization in government services. Residents emphasized the need for smart healthcare systems, advanced traffic management, and improved public transportation, highlighting a preference for solutions that address both social and environmental concerns. The study underscores the importance of resident engagement in planning and decision-making, recommending mechanisms like public forums and citizen advisory boards to ensure inclusive development. It also calls for capacity building within local governments and transparent communication to address resident anxieties. By prioritizing public needs and integrating green technologies, Hetauda can create a smart city framework that enhances quality of life while promoting sustainability. This research provides valuable insights for policymakers, emphasizing a resident-driven approach to urban transformation. Its implications extend beyond Hetauda, offering lessons for other underdeveloped regions seeking to balance technological advancements with social and environmental goals in their journey towards sustainable urban development.
Bibliometric Analysis of Machine Learning Models for Stock Price Prediction
Machine learning models are becoming more popular for predicting stock prices. Their advanced algorithms often perform better than traditional statistical methods. This study aims to carry out a bibliometric analysis using VosViewer. It focuses on the number, variety, and connections of studies related to stock price prediction using Support Vector Machines (SVM), Random Forests, and Deep Learning techniques. Boolean operators were used to search for and filter relevant articles from the Dimensions database. We conducted a manual review to select only high-quality studies, resulting in 55 peer-reviewed articles for analysis. The analysis highlights important trends, influential studies, and collaborative networks in the field. This provides a clear overview of how machine learning models are developing for stock price prediction. There has been a notable rise in publications since 2013, with major contributions from institutions in the United States, the United Kingdom, India, and China. Emerging themes, especially deep learning applications, have been identified. However, there is still a lack of in-depth academic evaluation of these models. This study stresses the need for more empirical research to address algorithmic biases and improve model reliability. The findings offer useful insights for researchers and practitioners, guiding future studies and helping to develop more accurate stock price prediction models.
The Dynamics of Life Insurance Demand: Insights from Butwal Sub-Metropolitan City
This study aims to investigate the factors contributing to life insurance policy demand in this dynamic business scenario. The study identifies key variables, including demographic factors, economic factors, perceived service of insurance companies, company image, other insured and peer influence, and various motives of individuals as major explanatory factors of life insurance demand. The findings and conclusions are derived from a descriptive and causal-comparative study methodology that is survey-based. A comprehensive survey was performed among the residents of Butwal Sub-Metropolitan city. Considering the total number of insured residing in the Butwal Sub-metropolitan City population, 420 individuals purchased life insurance policies from the insurance company branch office located in Butwal, Sub-metropolitan city, was taken as a sample and approached through the help of the corresponding insurance company’s insurance agents. The study employed inferential statistical techniques to examine the strength of the explanatory variables in explaining the demand for life insurance. The study’s result revealed that economic factors, insurance service perception, insurance awareness, persuasion and influence, tax-saving motives, bequest motives and wealth accumulation motives are the most significant factors in explaining the life insurance demand. It is found from the Kruskal Wallis test that the number of dependent family members of respondents has a significant difference in the demand for life insurance. As a way to better meet customer needs and increase the total demand for life insurance policies in this dynamic business environment, insurance companies can use the study’s insightful findings to customize their offerings and marketing plans.
Awareness of Policyholders towards the Terms and Conditions of Life Insurance Policy
Life insurance is a long-term investment and risk management tool. Yet policyholders often fail to recall the major attributes of the policy and its terms and conditions. The memory, understand and awareness towards the life insurance policy is influenced by various factors. The research aims to examine the association between the policyholders’ mental states, including their recall of policy characteristics, the value placed on policies, and their retained knowledge with the age and level of education. The study follows quantitative, descriptive, and cross-sectional research design. Data were gathered from 474 purposively selected policyholders in Gandaki and Bagmati Province using structured questionnaires. Descriptive and inferential tools were employed for analysis. Most policyholders are unaware of the maturity period of their policies, while only 2% cannot recall the purchased year. Memory of terms like premium waivers shows weak correlations, with even weaker links for other contract details. Out of seven tested associations, age has been found to be an insignificant factor, but education significantly influenced recall of some policy aspects. Many policyholders neglect reading terms and conditions, relying heavily on agents or relatives. Factors such as forced selling, policy complexity, and overconfidence in insurers contribute to this behavior, as explained by Cognitive Dissonance Theory. Policyholders tend to avoid engaging with contract details to reduce psychological discomfort, leading to insufficient understanding and potential loss of benefits. The findings emphasize the need for insurers to implement better education and communication strategies to enhance policyholders’ awareness and engagement with their insurance products. Jel code: D83, G22