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Other literature type . 2025
License: CC BY
Data sources: Datacite
ZENODO
Other literature type . 2025
License: CC BY
Data sources: Datacite
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Digital Inequality in the Bagmati Province: An Integrated Approach to Assessing Digital Participation

Authors: Paudel, Deependra;

Digital Inequality in the Bagmati Province: An Integrated Approach to Assessing Digital Participation

Abstract

Abstract: As Nepal pursues digital transformation via the Digital Nepal Framework (2019), Bagmati Province serves as a critical case study for understanding "second-level" digital divides. This study examines digital inequality among the economically active population (N = 134) using an integrated scoring approach that evaluates household income, material access, and usage intensity. The results reveal a 29.1% digital exclusion rate. Binary logistic regression identifies monthly household income (p < .001), urban-rural location (p = .017), and digital literacy (p = .038) as the primary predictors of inclusion. Key Findings & Discussion: Income Dependency: The most striking finding is the odds ratio for income (6.10), confirming that digital participation is heavily income-dependent. Rural Penalty: Even when controlling for income, rural residents have 73.1% lower odds of being digitally included. Policy Implications: The study suggests that infrastructure expansion must be coupled with affordability and literacy interventions to achieve the goals of the Digital Nepal Framework. Key Highlights: Quantitative Assessment: Identification of a 29.1% digital exclusion rate in Nepal's administrative hub. Methodological Framework: Utilization of Van Dijk’s (2005) Resources and Appropriation Theory to assess second-level divides. Predictive Analysis: Use of Binary Logistic Regression to isolate socio-demographic drivers of inequality. Actionable Recommendations: Evidence-based suggestions for targeted subsidized connectivity and localized literacy programs. Keywords: Digital Inequality, Bagmati Province, ICT4D, Digital Nepal, Logistic Regression, Socio-economic Stratification, Digital Inclusion.

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selected citations
These citations are derived from selected sources.
This is an alternative to the "Influence" indicator, which also reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Citations provided by BIP!
popularity
This indicator reflects the "current" impact/attention (the "hype") of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Popularity provided by BIP!
influence
This indicator reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Influence provided by BIP!
impulse
This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Impulse provided by BIP!
0
Average
Average
Average
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