Regional Differentials in Multidimensional Poverty in Nepal: Rethinking Dimensions and Method of Computation

This article examines the extent of regional inequality in multidimensional poverty in Nepal using the nationally representative Nepal Demographic Health Survey (2011) data. The authors present a more robust method of multidimensional poverty index (MPI), particularly in terms of the procedure of estimation and aggregation of the indicators as compared with previous studies. The findings suggest that despite the relatively better economic progress and a considerable reduction in education and health poverty, there is a wide inequality across the regions. Far less has been achieved in the case of reducing the standard of living poverty, that is, wealth poverty and inequalities across the regions. The article finds that global MPI tends to inflate poverty estimates in the case of Nepal. It also suggests that development policies and poverty reduction programs in Nepal must aim to reduce multidimensional poverty, of which deprivation in education, health and basic amenities must be an integral component, along with their efforts to improve economic growth and reduce income poverty.