Indra Mali Malakar et al., Strategies for Overcoming Socio-Economic Challenges Encountered by Different Professions During COVID-19 Pandemic (2024)

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Article by Indra Mali Malakar, Ramesh Kumar Lama and Bhaba Datta Sapkota of Tribhuvan University in the Far Western Review, Volume 2, Issue 2, December 2024, on how workers in Kathmandu district coped with COVID-19. The survey of 324 private school teachers, daily wage workers, small business owners, farmers and transport laborers covered Kirtipur, Kathmandu and Gokarneshwor. Financial struggles were reported by 80.6% in Gokarneshwor, 74.1% in Kirtipur and 62% in Kathmandu, and 75.3% struggled to get daily food. While 87.3% had savings before the pandemic, 50.5% found them useful. The authors name saving, food storage and small-scale farming as coping strategies.

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Far Western Review
A Multidisciplinary, Peer Reviewed Journal
ISSN: 3021-9019
Published by Far Western University
Mahendranagar, Nepal

Strategies for Overcoming Socio-Economic Challenges Encountered by Different
Professions During COVID-19 Pandemic

Indra Mali Malakar1*, Ramesh Kumar Lama2 and Bhaba Datta Sapkota2
1
Assistant Professor, Department of Population Studies, Patan Multiple Campus,
Tribhuvan University, Nepal
2
Assistant Professor, Department of Rural Development, Patan Multiple Campus,
Tribhuvan University, Nepal
*
Corresponding author’s email: indraamali1982@gmail.com

Abstract
The Nepalese economy has been severely impacted by the pandemic. This study
analyzed the socio-economic challenges encountered by different professions during the
COVID-19 pandemic and their strategies in the Kathmandu district. The study, using a
pragmatic approach with both deductive and inductive reasoning, focused on Kirtipur
Municipality, Kathmandu Metropolitan City, and Gokarneshwor Municipality. It included
private school teachers, daily wage workers, small business owners, farmers, and
transportation laborers. A cluster-stratified sampling design was used, with a sample size
of 324 determined by Cochran’s formula. Data were collected through questionnaires,
focus group discussions (FGDs), and key informant interviews (KIIs) and analyzed using
a descriptive survey design.
The study found that 85.8 percent of respondents were literate, with a mean
age of 33.94 years. Reduced sales, unpaid wages, and inability to pay rent or loans
were common, causing stress and health concerns. Financial struggles were highest in
Gokarneshwor (80.6%), followed by Kirtipur (74.1%) and Kathmandu (62%). About 75.3
percent struggled with daily food due to lockdowns, inflation, and limited necessities.
While 87.3 percent had savings pre-pandemic, 50.5 percent found them useful, especially
literate individuals and shop owners.

Copyright 2024 © Author(s) This open access article is distributed under a Creative Commons
Attribution-Non Commercial 4.0 International (CC BY-NC 4.0) License

Far Western Review, Volume-2, Issue-2, December 2024, 106-129
Strategies for Overcoming Socio-Economic Challenges Encountered by Different Professions
During COVID-19 Pandemic 107
The study result found that responsible consumption is a strategic way to sustain
life. Equally, saving habits, storing food, engaging in small-scale farming, sanitation,
adopting self-sustaining practices, vaccinations, and managing social capital are key
strategies to strengthen economic resilience and cope with livelihood challenges.
Keywords: COVID-19, encountered, challenges, livelihoods, saving, self-sustaining

Introduction
In December COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 Virus, first ap-
peared in Wuhan, China, spreading rapidly and declaring a pandemic in March 2020.
Africa, the least developed continent, was predicted to face the worst scenario due to in-
adequate resources and fragile states (Bwire et al., 2022)a new coronavirus, severe acute
respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2. It was declared a global emergency
by the World Health Organization (WHO) on January 30, 2020 (Zhu et al., 2020; Wu et
al., 2020). Scientists and researchers predicted that low- and middle-income countries,
would be the most negatively affected by COVID-19. In contrast, economically, socially,
and technologically advanced countries reported higher disease incidences and mortality
rates(Bwire et al., 2022)a new coronavirus, severe acute respiratory syndrome corona-
virus-2 (SARS-CoV-2. Being the least developed country, located between China and
India it is significantly vulnerable due to the impacts of a pandemic. Globally, none of
such sectors have not affected by COVID-19 and its impacts. COVID-19, first reported
in Nepal in January 2020, has significantly impacted the country’s economy, particularly
in tourism, trade, and manufacturing sectors that rely heavily on foreign remittances and
imports (Gahatraj, 2020). This study focused on examining the impacts of COVID-19 to
working-class people having no regular income and attached to the informal sector. The
working class, according to Karl Marx implies employees who exchange their labor for
wages but lack ownership of the means of production (Lebowitz, 2016). They have the
power to generate value in commodities. Author Lewis, a prominent classical economist
argued labor is an engine of economic growth. Despite the significant role of labor in the
economic system and livelihood strategies, the COVID-19, global pandemic affects their
way of life, living standard, income, and occupation, and losses the psychological power
to resist. The government of Nepal adopted lockdown as a controlling measure to control
the spread of the pandemic effect in society. Furthermore, the primary, secondary, and
tertiary sectors are highly affected by the lockdown. The pandemic has worsened unem-
ployment, millions of Nepali labor forces within and across the national economy have
reduced working hours and gradually lost their employment (ILO, 2020) and professions
in both formal and informal sectors.
The COVID-19 pandemic has worsened inequality, particularly among informal

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Strategies for Overcoming Socio-Economic Challenges Encountered by Different Professions
During COVID-19 Pandemic 108
and low-skilled workers, who have been severely impacted by lockdown measures.(John
et al., 2022). The lockdowns at country and sub-national levels, as well as the restric-
tions on the movement of people, have led to the closure of non-essential businesses with
negative outcomes on labor markets worldwide, particularly in the informal sector (FAO,
2020). The pandemic also exposed stark inequalities in education, as only a fraction of
schools, primarily in urban areas, were able to transition to online learning due to limited
internet access. The mental health impacts of COVID-19, including anxiety and depres-
sion, were significant, exacerbated by lockdowns, social isolation, and job losses. The
present crisis is quite different from previous ones. The impact of the lockdowns adopted
to mitigate the pandemic has vastly surpassed that of the initial trade shocks and the travel
restrictions introduced soon after the outbreak. Primary, secondary, and tertiary sector’s
service, employment, and production have largely been affected by the lockdowns, which
led, among other things, to a reduction in the number of hours worked and to job losses.
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused several detrimental impacts on a global scale
(see Table 1), particularly on informal workers, small business owners, farmers, and daily
wage laborers. In addition, lockdowns, a reviving strategy have disrupted agricultural
supply chains, markets, education, mobility, and transportation, consequently working
classes and wage workers are at high risk (FAO, 2020). International Labour Organiza-
tion (2020) estimated that the pandemic could increase global unemployment by 5.3 to
24.7 million people. The reduced working hours forecasted by UN policy and household
affected & relief package distribution have been presented in Table (1).
Table 1
Reduced working hours Forecast in Second Quarter 2020 & affected Households
Working Hours Reduced Percent
Reduced Working Hours Revised in Second Quarter 2020: 14.0
World
Reduced working hours Forecast in Second Quarter 2020: 10.0
Asia & Pacific
Reduced Working Hours Revised in Second Quarter 2020: 13.5
Asia & Pacific
Reduced Working Hours Revised in Second Quarter 2020: 17.9
South Asia
Share of Young Worker’s Job Loss in the World 17.1 (Women: 16.1 &
Men: 18.1
Most affected Households & Relief Package during Lock- 369,500 HHs and HHs
down: Bagmati Province with first relief: 85%
Source: UN Policy Brief, June 2020 based on ILO Now casting model; ILO Now casting

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Strategies for Overcoming Socio-Economic Challenges Encountered by Different Professions
During COVID-19 Pandemic 109
Model, ILO 5th Edition, June 30; ILO Monitor May 2020; Calculation from GoN & WFP,
Food Security & Vulnerability Update 3, May 6; 2020.
Table 1 reveals the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic across the globe in terms
of working hours. Even Nepal was not far from it. Many households were affected in
Bagmati Province getting at least 85 percent with first relief. Several studies have been
conducted on behalf of COVID-19 and its impacts. Tien & Bao (2022) conducted a
study focused on street vendors, and highly affected groups in Vietnam using a mixed
methods approach. A total of 91 women vendors were surveyed and 15 women vendees
were interviewed to collect the information. Their study aimed to examine the economic
burden facing women vendors during the pandemic; and to assess the coping strategies
and mitigation mechanisms in response to adverse effects generated by the pandemic.
Having no access to coping strategies to sustain their businesses, they adopted various
mitigation mechanisms for their livelihoods. The study finding of Arai et al. (2022)
suggested that livelihood opportunities taking alternative sources are not a long-term
solution; working-class people’s income sources should be durable. In addition, based
on 39 review-based studies John et al.(2022) concluded that the pandemic increased
risk and reduced incomes and living standards in poor communities. Coping strategies
include small gardens, diet changes, community markets, and food swaps. A study by
Ganesh Man Singh Academy estimated Nepal loses NRs10 billion (US$11.58 million)
daily due to COVID-19 and lockdowns. The National Planning Commission estimates
over six million people face unemployment, while the ILO predicted 3.7 million would
experience employment issues. Lockdowns have disrupted services, employment, and
production, leading to reduced working hours and job losses. However, their study lacks
a comprehensive understanding of rural vulnerability, highlighting the need for further
research to enable evidence-based responses to the pandemic in rural areas. The im-
pact of COVID-19 on informal migrants in Bangladesh was made by Sohel et al. (2022)
following the qualitative method in four urban areas purposively. Their study depicts that
due to induced lockdown, particularly, informal migrants were heavily affected by losing
income and occupation. In urban areas of Bangladesh, informal migrants adopted a set of
coping strategies against the pandemic such as taking loans, decreasing daily expenses,
consuming less food, and selling land, jewelry, and goods. In addition, they get support
from relatives and neighbors. The government also distributes relief schemes.
Therefore, this study focused on examining strategies for overcoming socio-eco-
nomic challenges encountered by different professions during covid-19 pandemic and
how they manage alternative sources for their livelihoods during the economic downturn
in Kathmandu, Nepal. Despite this background, this study addressed two key research is-
sues: what were the socio-economic challenges faced by different professions during the
COVID-19 pandemic in the study area? And what were the strategies to overcome these
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Strategies for Overcoming Socio-Economic Challenges Encountered by Different Professions
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challenges?
Theoretical Review
The studied phenomenon in this regard was viewed by the Keynesian theory of
employment which argues to increase aggregate demand to address the existing unem-
ployment generated by a lack of effective demand (Collins, 2017). In periods of economic
depression, war, natural disasters, and pandemics like COVID-19, the state must play the
leading role in saving people’s lives and livelihoods. For this, the state must allocate a
huge amount of budget in the form of subsidies and investments to increase production of
goods and services which in turn increase the new employment opportunities in the econ-
omy. The COVID-19 pandemic led to significant job losses, especially in education and
informal sectors, hindering the achievement of sustainable development goals (SDGs)
related to education and employment. The sustainable livelihood approach, introduced by
Chambers and Conway (1991), defines livelihood as the capabilities and assets needed for
living. A sustainable livelihood can withstand stress and shocks, ensuring long-term secu-
rity. COVID-19 has disrupted livelihoods, especially for informal workers. The approach
emphasizes developing strategies that include economic, social, and environmental efforts
to minimize these impacts. The study examined how preventive measures and policies
can mitigate COVID-19’s effects on the livelihoods of the working class.
Method and Materials
This study adopts pragmatic reasoning, viewing knowledge acquisition as a
continuum that integrates intersubjectivity and employs mixed methods for a flexible
research design. (Creswell & Creswell, 2018). The philosophical viewing of pragmatism
allows and guides a mixed mixed-methods approach. (Doyle et al., 2009) . Abductive
reasoning was used to assess socio-economic challenges encountered by different
professions during the COVID-19 pandemic in Kathmandu district, Nepal, with the term
“profession” referring to the working class such as farmers, private school teachers,
drivers, co-drivers, small business shop owners, daily wage workers, and street shop
business person were the respondents. Private school teachers were also included, as
they faced similar challenges and hardships to other professions during the pandemic.
Data were gathered using a structured questionnaire, key informant interviews (KII), and
focus group discussions (FGD). The respondents were accessed at bus stations, markets,
construction sites, small shops, and similar locations. Key informants in this study
included mayors, deputy mayors, and social workers, while FGDs involved non-survey
participants. KIIs provided expert insights, and FGDs captured diverse experiences,
offering qualitative data for inclusive solutions.
Kathmandu district, the most densely populated region of Nepal, with a population
density of 5,169 per sq. km according to the 2021 National Population and Household
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Census, was selected for this study due to its significant migration history. The study
focused on three purposively chosen municipalities—Kirtipur, Kathmandu Metropolitan,
and Gokarneshwor—due to their higher concentration of working-class settlements.
The unit of analysis included private school teachers, small business owners, daily wage
workers, farmers, and transportation workers.
A cluster-stratified sampling design was used for this study. With the population
not well-defined, the sample size was calculated using Cochran’s formula at a 95%
confidence interval, resulting in a sample of 324 respondents, equally distributed across
the three clusters. The sample was drawn from seven strata: private school teachers,
farmers, daily wage workers, small business owners (formal and informal), and
transportation workers (drivers and assistant drivers). Simple random sampling was used
to select approximately 46 respondents from each stratum.
Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS, applying descriptive, analytical, and
inferential methods, while qualitative data were transcribed and analyzed narratively.
Reliability was ensured by asking respondents the same questions twice to check
consistency and a pilot survey was conducted to validate the data collection tools.
For instance, 10 respondents were given questionnaires designed for data collection,
and their responses were evaluated to assess whether they met the study’s objectives.
The research is valid due to diverse sampling, mixed methods, a rigorous sampling
design, triangulation, expert inputs, and its relevance to post-pandemic socio-economic
challenges in Kathmandu. Ethical considerations were maintained throughout the study,
respecting the respondents’ culture, profession, language, religion, and caste, with verbal
consent obtained before data collection.
Results
Age Structure of the Respondents
The respondents’ age is an important demographic variable. This variable can
randomly, all of them were interviewed. Respondents’ education is mostly related to
their socio-economic status which is the most essential indicator of human development.
Many national and international organizations and even the government of Nepal have
been engaged to develop the education sector more effectively. The profession is one of
the most important factors for the livelihood of the people. The economy of the people is
mostly depending on their employment status and their profession. The respondents were
asked about their profession before the COVID-19 pandemic. The result is presented in
Table (2).

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Table 2
Distribution of Respondents by Age Group, Education and Professions
Age group No. Percent
Below 30 years 126 38.9
Above 30 years 198 61.1
Mean age 33.94
Std. Deviation 9.79
Median 34
Mode 45
Minimum 19
Maximum 62
Educational Status
Illiterate 46 14.2
Literate 278 85.8
Professions
Private teacher 45 13.9
Driver 46 14.2
Co-driver (Kkhalasi/assistant) 46 14.2
Farmer 48 14.8
Small shop business person 46 14.2
Street shop business person 47 14.5
Daily wage workers 46 14.2
Total 324 100.0
Source: Field Survey, 2023.
*Literate includes who can read & write, up to class 10, above SEE & Bachelor.
*Master of Philosophy and Doctorate levels are not applicable.
Table 2 shows that of the total respondents, 38.9 percent were “Below 30 years”
and 61.1 percent were above 30 years respectively. The mean age is 33.94 with its
standard deviation 9.79 whereas the minimum age is 19 years and the maximum age
is 62 years. Similarly, the median age is 34 years and the mode is 45 years. Of the
total respondents (324), the majority of the respondents were literate (85.8%) and the
remaining respondents were illiterate (14.2%). To analyze the economic aspect of the
working-class people, the people who were working as “Private teachers” (13.9%),
“Driver”(14.2%), “Co-driver” (14.2%), “Farmer”(14.8%), “Small Shop business person”
(14.2%), “Street shop business person” (14.2%), &”Daily wage workers” (14.2%) were
taken as the respondents to complete the study objectives.
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During COVID-19 Pandemic 113
Socio-Economic Problems Encountered
The respondents were asked about the problems faced for their living or livelihood
during pandemic. The result is given in Table (3).
Table 3
Distribution of respondents by the problems faced for their livelihood during pandemic
Age group Problems faced in the livelihood during the Covid Total
pandemic No.
It was There There was It was No %
difficult was the a problem difficult difficulty in
even for problem with the to pay livelihood
one time of the health school No.
to fulfill money. treatment fees %
hand-to- No. No. No.
mouth % % %
No.
%
Below 30 11 95 19 0 1 126
years (8.7) (75.4) (15.1) (0.0) (0.8) (100.0)
Above 30 12 139 23 23 1 198
years (6.1) (70.2) (11.6) (11.6) (0.5) (100.0)
The chi-square value is 16.513 and its p-value is 0.002
Professions
Private
0 35 10 0 0 45
school
(0.0) (77.8) (22.2) (0.0) (0.0) (100.0)
teacher
2 31 7 6 0 46
Driver
(4.3) (67.4) (15.2) (13.0) (0.0) (100.0)
7 39 0 0 0 46
Co-driver
(15.2) (84.8) (0.0) (0.0) (0.0) (100.0)
0 44 0 2 2 48
Farmer
(0.0) (91.7) (0.0) (4.2) (4.2) (100.0)
Small shop
0 22 18 6 0 46
business
(0.0) (47.8) (39.1) (13.0) (0.0) (100.0)
owner
Street shop
4 37 2 4 0 47
business
(8.5) (78.7) (4.3) (8.5) (0.0) (100.0)
owner
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During COVID-19 Pandemic 114

Daily wage 10 26 5 5 0 46
workers (21.7) (56.5) (10.9) (10.9) (0.0) (100.0)
23 234 42 23 2 324
Total
(7.1) (72.2) (13.0) (7.1) (0.6) (100.0)
The chi-square value is 104.864 and its p-value is 0.000
Source: Field Survey, 2023.
Table 3 reveals that of the total 126 respondents below 30 years, the majority of
them reported “there was a problem with money” (75.4%) and the least “It was difficult
for paying school fees” with nil percent. Similarly, above 30 years, the majority of them
reported “there was a problem with money” (70.2%) and the least “No difficulty with
livelihood” (0.5%) respectively. The chi-square value is 16.513 and its p-value is 0.002
concludes that there is a significant difference between problems faced in the livelihood
during the COVID pandemic among the age groups at a 5 percent level of significance.
Furthermore, all the professions had the same problem of money during the
COVID pandemic sharing the highest position such as private school teacher (77.8%),
Driver (67.4%), Co-driver (84.8%), Farmer (91.7%), Small shop business owner (47.8%),
Street shop business owner (78.7%) and Daily wage workers (56.5%) respectively. The
chi-square value is 104.864 and its p-value is 0.000 concludes that there is a significant
difference between problems faced in the livelihood during the COVID pandemic among
the professions.
Opinion on the Effect of a Pandemic on Different Aspects of the Livelihood of People
The respondents were asked to give their opinion on the effect of a pandemic on
different aspects of the livelihood of people. They were asked to state the effects on five
Likert scales strongly agree (SD), agree (A), agree to some extent (ASE), disagree (D),
and strongly disagree (SD). The weighted average was taken for each item. If the average
of each item is equal to or greater than the weighted average then it has high agreement
otherwise it has low agreement. The result is shown in Table (4).

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Table 4
Distribution of respondents by the effect of a pandemic on different aspects of the
livelihood of people
Opinion on Effect on SD D ASE A SA Mean S. D D
Different Aspects No. No. No. No. No.

% % % % %
Reduction in the sale of 0 0 16 91 217 4.62 0.58 HP
materials
(0.0) (0.0) (4.9) (28.1) (67.0)
Did not get wage or 0 15 18 168 123 4.23 0.75 LP
salary
(0.0) (4.6) (5.6) (51.9) (38.0)
Unable to pay rent 0 7 10 84 223 4.61 0.66 HP

(0.0) (2.2) (3.1) (25.9) (68.8)
Unable to pay Loan 0 10 27 112 175 4.39 0.77 LP

(0.0) (3.1) (8.3) (34.6) (54.0)
Business not getting 0 0 20 104 200 4.56 0.61 HP
market
(0.0) (0.0) (6.2) (32.1) (61.7)
Getting less salary or 0 7 37 122 158 4.33 0.76 LP
wage
(0.0) (2.2) (11.4) (37.7) (48.7)
Loss or reduction in 0 0 15 91 218 4.63 0.57 HP
health
(0.0) (0.0) (4.6) (28.1) (67.3)
Problem in Livelihood 0 0 7 84 233 4.69 0.50 HP

(0.0) (0.0) (2.2) (25.9) (71.9)
Stress in Managing 0 2 8 58 256 4.75 0.52 HP
Livelihood
(0.0) (0.6) (2.5) (17.9) (79.0)
Source: Field Survey, 2023.
Note. SD = strongly disagree, D = disagree, ASE = agree to some extent, A = agree, SA =
strongly agree, S.D = standard deviation. D = decision, LP = low perception, HP = high
perception. Decision: weighted average = 4.54.
Table 4 reveals that most of the respondents have placed their opinion on strongly
agreed (67.0%) and agreed (28.1%) on “Reduction in the sale of materials” due to the

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COVID pandemic. Similarly, more than two-fourths (51.9%) and one-fourth (38.0%)
gave opinions strongly agree and agree on “Did not get wage or salary”. In the same
way, most of the respondents have put their opinion on strongly agree (68.8%) and agree
(25.9%) on “ Unable to pay rent”, strongly agree (54.0%) and agree (34.6%) on “Unable
to pay loan”, strongly agree (61.7%) and agree 25.9%) on “Business not getting market”,
strongly agree (48.7%) and agree (32.1%) on “Getting less salary or wage”, strongly
agree (67.3%) and agree (28.1%) on “Loss or reduction in health”, strongly agree (71.9%)
and agree (25.9%) on ‘Problem in livelihood”, and strongly agree (79.0%) and agree
(17.9%) on “Stress in managing livelihood” shared as first and second highest proportion
respectively. Similarly, “Reduction in the sale of materials”, “Unable to pay rent”,
“Business not getting market”, “Loss or reduction in health”, “Problem in livelihood”
and “stress in managing livelihood” have high agreement whereas “did not get a wage
for salary”, “Unable to pay loan’ and ‘getting less salary or wage” have low agreement
respectively.
Place-wise Problems Faced for Livelihood Due to the Pandemic
This study also attempts to clarify the problems faced by the study site and entails
the study place having much affected by pandemic. The result is shown in Table 5.
Table 5
Respondents by problems faced in their livelihood during the COVID pandemic by study
place
Place Problems Faced in the Livelihood during COVID pandemic Total
It was There There was It was No problem
difficult was the a problem difficult or difficulty
even for problem with the to pay in livelihood
one time of the health school
to fulfill money. treatment fees.
hand-to- No.
mouth. No.

% No. % No.

No. % %
No.

% %
0 87 18 1 2 108
Gokarneshwor
(0.0) (80.6) (16.7) (0.9) (1.9) (100.0)

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12 67 14 15 0 108
Kathmandu
(11.1) (62.0) (13.0) (13.9) (0.0) (100.0)
11 80 10 7 0 108
Kirtipur
(10.2) (74.1) (9.3) (6.5) (0.0) (100.0)
23 234 42 23 2 324
Total
(7.1) (72.2) (13.0) (7.1) (0.6) (100.0)
Source: Field Survey, 2023.
Table 5 reveals the problems faced during the COVID-19 pandemic by the study
area. Of the total respondents in Gokarneshwor, most of the respondents reported “There
was the problem of money” (80.6%) sharing the highest and the least “It was difficult
even for one time to fulfill hand to mouth” with nil percent. Similarly, In Kathmandu,
‘There was the problem of money” (62.0%) shared the highest proportion and “No
problem or difficulty of livelihood” with nil percent as the least. In Kirtipur, “There was
the problem of money” (74.1%) as the highest proportion and “No problem or difficulty
for livelihood” with nil percent as the least. In comparison to the three places, all the
respondents of three study places had the problem of money that shared the highest
proportion. Among them, the respondents of Gokarneshwor (80.6%) had a problem with
money with the highest proportion followed by Kirtipur (62.0%) and Kathmandu (74.1%)
respectively. It was difficult to fulfill hand-to-mouth was reported higher in Kathmandu
(11.1%) followed by Kirtipur (7.1%) respectively.
Management of Food for the Family During the Pandemic
Food is an essential component of human beings for their survival. During the pan-
demic time, it was difficult for people to manage their food daily. The respondents were
asked whether there was a problem managing food for their daily lives or not. The result
is shown in Table 6.
Table 6
Distribution of respondents by the management of daily food for family during pandemic
Status of Management of daily food No. Percent
Difficult 244 75.3
Not difficult 80 24.7
Total 324 100.0
Reasons for difficulty in managing daily food for the family during a
pandemic
Due to the increase in the price of food and vegetables 15 6.1

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Strategies for Overcoming Socio-Economic Challenges Encountered by Different Professions
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Not enough money or lack of money 161 66.0
Due to lack of necessitated food in the shop 9 3.7
Due to lock down and places sealed 59 24.2
Total 244 100.0
Source: Field Survey, 2023.
Table 6 shows that most of the respondents (75.3%) gave the opinion that during
the pandemic it was difficult to manage daily food for their family whereas nearly
one-fourth (24.7%) opined not difficult to manage daily food for their family during a
pandemic. Furthermore, those respondents who had difficulty managing daily food for
their families during the pandemic were asked to give the reasons for the difficulty. Of
the total respondents (244), most of the respondents (66.0%) opined the reason was “Not
enough money or lack of money” occupying the highest proportion, followed by “Due
to lock down and places sealed” (24.2%), “Due to increase in the price of the food and
vegetables” (6.1%), &”Due to lack of necessitated food in the shop” (3.7%) respectively.
Habit of Saving
One of the strategies to be saved during the pandemic is saving money. It is
because if anything happens during the pandemic this money can be used for buying
food medical treatment and so on and many more. The respondents were asked to give an
opinion on whether they have a habit of saving money or not.
The Habit of Saving Money Before the Pandemic
The respondents were asked whether they used to save the income earned by them
before the pandemic. The result is shown in Table 7.
Table 7
Distribution of respondents by saving money and saving percent before the Pandemic
Saving Habit No. Percent
Yes 283 87.3
No 41 12.7
Total 324 100.0
Saving Yes
Below 10% savings of the total income 17 6.0
10% saving of the total income 81 28.6
20% saving of the total income 100 35.3
Above 20% saving of the total income 85 30.0
Total 283 100
Source: Field Survey, 2023.
Table 7 reveals that most of the respondents (87.3%) used to save the income
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Strategies for Overcoming Socio-Economic Challenges Encountered by Different Professions
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earned before the pandemic and few respondents (12.7%) did not save the income earned
before the pandemic. Those who used to save income earned before the pandemic were
further asked about how much they used to save the income. More respondents (35.3%)
reported: “20% saving of the total income” which shared the highest proportion followed
by “Above 20% saving of the total income” (30.0%), “10% saving of the total income”
(28.6%) and “Below 10% saving of the total income”(6.0%) respectively.
The Usefulness of Saving During a Pandemic
Those respondents who used to save money were further asked whether it helped
during the pandemic or not. The result is shown in Table 8.
Table 8
Distribution of Respondents by saving money to help themselves during a pandemic
Educational Status The saving has helped or not difficult Total
during the COVID pandemic
Helped during Did not help during
pandemic pandemic

No No.

% %
22 12 34
Illiterate
(7.8) (4.2) (12.0)
234 15 249
Literate
(82.7) (5.3) (88.0)
The chi-square value is 29.697 & its p-value is 0.000.
Professions
35 0 35
Private teacher
(12.4) (0.0) (12.4)
40 6 46
Driver
(14.1) (2.1) (16.3)
39 0 39
Co-driver
(13.8) 0.0% 13.8%
41 0 41
Farmer
(14.5) 0.0% 14.5%

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44 2 46
Small shop business
(15.5) 0.7% 16.3%
37 4 41
street shop business owner
(13.1) 1.4% 14.5%
20 15 35
Daily wage workers
(7.1) 5.3% 12.4%
256 27 283
Total
(90.5) (9.5) (100.0)
The chi-square value is 59.237 & its p-value is 0.000.
Source: Field Survey, 2023.
Table 8 reveals that of the total 283 respondents who reported they had saved
money; the majority of the respondents (50.5%) reported that saving money helped them.
Similarly, the majority of the literate respondents (82.7%) reported “Helped during the
pandemic” and a few illiterate respondents ((7.8%) reported the same. Furthermore,
among the professions; “Small shop business owner” (15.5%) reported the saved money
helped during the pandemic sharing the highest position followed by “Farmer” (14.1%)
and the least “Daily wage workers” (7.1%).
The chi-square value is 29.697 and its p-value is 0.000 in between educational
status and saving has helped in difficulty during the COVID pandemic indicating a
significant association between them i.e. there is a significant difference between saving
has helped or not in difficulty during the COVID pandemic among the educational status.
Similarly, the chi-square value is 59.237 and its p-value is 0.000 indicating that there is
a significant difference between saving has helped or not difficulty during the COVID
pandemic among the different professions. Both the tests have been carried out at a 5%
level of significance.
Management of Livelihood
The respondents were asked about the management of livelihood when they had
no work or job, no business or selling, and no sale of production during a pandemic. The
result is given in Table 9.
Table 9
Respondents by management of livelihood when no job or work, no business or no
production or no sales of production
Livelihood Management No. Percent

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Strategies for Overcoming Socio-Economic Challenges Encountered by Different Professions
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Borrowing money from others or relatives or friends 152 46.9
Using the saved money from the salary 157 48.5
Taking help from NGO/INGO or institution or organization 7 2.2
Reduction in food consumption 8 2.5
Total 324 100.0
Source: Field Survey, 2023.
Table 9 reveals that more respondents reported that “Using the saved money from
salary” (48.5%) occupied the highest position followed by “Borrowing money from
others or relatives or friends”(46.9%), “Reduction in food consumption” (2.5%) and
“Taking help from NGOs/INGO or institution or organization” (2.2%) respectively.
The FGD conducted among the professionals including farmers reported that the
pandemic affected every sector, including farming. We couldn’t get fertilizers or seeds,
and we couldn’t buy the necessary tools for production. Even when we managed to grow
crops, we couldn’t take them to the market to sell. Much of our produce rotted away
because we couldn’t move around due to mobility restrictions. The army and police
patrolled to ensure no one was outside. It felt better to go mad than to die of hunger.
We tried to sneak out with small amounts, but no one was willing to buy. Ultimately, all
tomatoes rotted away, and couldn’t earn a decent income. Policies on paper didn’t help.
When we sought assistance from government offices, we were repeatedly told to come
back later. Farmers produce food, not paperwork, yet we received no support. Whenever
we went to the concerned offices, they told us to come back tomorrow or the day after.
How was that helpful? Farmers produce food like tomatoes, potatoes, cauliflower, grains,
etc. not paperwork, yet we received no support. Fortunately, we didn’t die of hunger
because we had land, but our regular income went down. We had some savings from
previous earnings, which we used to get by, so the impact wasn’t as severe.
Knowledge of Saving Food
It is important to know about food saving since it could help during unavoidable
circumstances. So, the respondents were asked how much food can be saved that they
consume. The result is shown in Table 10.
Table 10
Respondents by the view on saving Food that they consume
View on Saving Food No. Percent
Not to throw more than we need when eating and cooking 92 28.4
Consuming food properly in such a way that use it as we need it 137 42.3
Not to use the consumption food more than necessary 95 29.3
Total 324 100.0
Source: Field Survey, 2023.

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Table 10 reveals that “Using the consuming food properly in such a way that use it
as you need it” occupied the first position (42.3%) followed by “Not to use the consuming
food more than necessary” (29.3%) and “Not to throw more than you need when eating
and cooking” (28.4%) respectively.
Steps to be Taken to Strengthen the Economic Aspect andCoping the Problems of
Livelihood During Pandemic
The respondents were asked about the steps to be taken to strengthen the economic
aspect and cope with the problems of livelihood during the pandemic (see Table 11).
Table 11
Distribution of Respondents by Steps to be Taken for Strengthening Economic Aspect &
coping the Problems of livelihood during a Pandemic
Steps to be taken No. Percent
Storing and saving food production 221 68.2
By operating the small vegetables or corn, wheat farming 166 51.2
By adopting the self-sustaining farming 93 28.7
By saving the salary/income earned 246 75.9
By flowing the information of the pandemic 83 25.6
By managing and operating the social capital 37 11.4
Using vaccination for the disease 71 21.9
By maintaining cleanliness 122 37.7
Total 324 100.0
Source: Field Survey, 2023.
*Percentage may exceed 100 due to multiple responses.
Table 11 reveals that more number of respondents explained “By saving the salary/
income earned” (75.9%), “Storing and saving food production” (68.2%), “By operating
the small vegetables or corn, wheat farming” (51.2%), “By maintaining cleanliness”
(37.7%), “By adopting the self-sustaining farming” (28.7%), “Using vaccination of the
disease” (21.9%), and “By managing and operating the social capital” (11.4%) were the
steps to be taken for strengthening economic aspect & coping the problems of livelihood.
Government Role to Address the COVID-19 Pandemic
The KII results have been taken to analyze the government’s role in addressing the
COVID-19 pandemic as follows:
The deputy mayor of Gokarneshwor municipality reported that for six to seven
days during the lockdown, no relief efforts were initiated for the people. However,
recognizing the dire situation faced by daily wage workers, we took action and provided
food to 15,000 individuals across various locations in Gokarneshwor. Food distribution
was focused on areas where daily wage earners and laborers were predominant.
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Additionally, relief packages were distributed to those working in the transportation
sector. Ambulances were utilized to transport serious COVID-19 cases to hospitals, and
two ambulances are still in operation. The municipality faced challenges in managing
COVID-19 cases, leading to collaborations with schools, medical colleges, and
Shankharapur Hospital to establish isolation centers. Oxygen shortages were addressed
with considerable difficulty. When COVID-19 vaccinations became available, extensive
awareness campaigns were conducted, resulting in over 100,000 people being vaccinated
free of cost, including renters and students. Elderly residents were prioritized, with door-
to-door visits ensuring they received necessary care. Reflecting on our tenure, we now
allocate a budget of 5 crores per year for pandemic emergencies, a decision met with
appreciation from the community. Efforts were made to reopen schools, with assistance
provided to students lacking access to internet or laptops. Relief packages were extended
to private school teachers, and tax exemptions were implemented to alleviate financial
strain. Lessons learned from the pandemic underscored the importance of proactive
measures and community solidarity. Scout groups and women’s organizations played
crucial roles alongside government efforts. Despite challenges, health workers were
insured, though delays in insurance payouts prompted the municipality to initiate its
health insurance scheme. While the “Food for Work” program was planned, it couldn’t
be implemented due to time constraints. Managing the disposal of deceased bodies
during the pandemic posed another challenge, with municipal officials stepping in to
provide financial support. Feeding 15,000 to 16,000 individuals daily was no small
feat, compounded by the presence of those who could afford their meals. However, the
program faced temporary interruptions. In light of livelihood challenges, everyone
must prioritize collective well-being and mutual support. Planning for emergencies and
fostering community resilience remain essential strategies for navigating future crises.
The chairperson of ward number 4 of Gokarneshwor municipality reported that
everyone in the community was educated about COVID-19 awareness. As per government
policy, those who were daily wage earners or renters received food packages containing
essentials like salt, lentils, and more. Additionally, economic aid collected from residents,
totaling Rs 7 lakh, was specifically distributed to COVID-19 victims. However, this
caused some controversy as it was perceived as biased within the ward. To address this,
door-to-door assessments were conducted to identify those in need, especially renters and
daily wage earners, who were provided monetary assistance. During the initial phase,
assisting people was challenging. Overseas returnees underwent COVID-19 tests, and
some, unfortunately, tested positive. Despite risks, efforts to aid the community continued.
One person succumbed to COVID-19 due to negligence, highlighting the seriousness
of the situation. Assistance, including food distribution and support from the Minister’s
Employment Program, brought relief to affected individuals. In Gokarneshwor, food
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distribution was carried out twice daily for over two weeks, demonstrating solidarity
within the community. However, challenges arose, particularly regarding crowd control,
notably at vegetable shops. One shop owner faced consequences for disregarding safety
protocols, leading to strained relations. Unlike China, Nepal lacks stringent enforcement
measures, relying on citizen cooperation, which can be challenging to achieve.
Livelihoods were severely affected by the pandemic, especially for daily wage earners.
Encouraging savings and fostering a spirit of communal support are essential for
resilience. While individualism emerged, instances of altruism were also observed, such
as assisting COVID-19 patients. The arrival of the vaccine posed logistical challenges
due to high demand and safety concerns. Although details on insurance claims are not
precise, many ward residents received compensation for COVID-19-related expenses.
Pandemics affect everyone, emphasizing the need for mutual aid and tighter regulations.
While few individuals in the area had bank loans, those in business utilized low-interest
loans opportunistically. In conclusion, navigating the pandemic requires a concerted
effort, with an emphasis on community support, financial prudence, and vigilant
leadership.
Discussion
This study aims to analyze the socio-economic challenges faced by the respondents
to COVID-19 and assess the alternative strategies for them during the economic downturn
in the study area. The result indicated that the COVID-19 pandemic revealed a significant
relationship between livelihood issues and among the professions. The findings of this
study are highly consistent with prior studies. Adhikari et al. (2021) found that the
pandemic worsened food access, particularly for low-income families, daily wage earners,
and the unemployed, due to reduced financial capacity and limited food stocks. Demand
for fresh produce and animal products dropped in cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and
Chitwan (Joshi et al., 2021), mirroring trends in other developing economies (Workie et
al., 2021). The crisis highlighted the need for safety nets for vulnerable populations, as
nearly 90 percent of migrant workers in informal sectors lost their jobs, leading to a 14%
decline in remittances in 2019/20 (World Bank, 2020). Rising food prices further strained
disadvantaged households, especially in the Terai region, due to border closures and
transportation restrictions (Subedi, 2020) which is consistent with this study too.
This study found that 75.3 percent of respondents faced difficulty providing daily
food for their families during the pandemic, with the primary reason being a lack of
money (66%), followed by lockdown restrictions (24.2%), rising food prices (6.1%), and
shortages in shops (3.7%). Similarly, this study found that 87.3 percent of respondents
saved part of their income before the pandemic, with 35.3 percent saving 20 percent
and smaller percentages saving more or less. Furthermore, this study also revealed that

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Strategies for Overcoming Socio-Economic Challenges Encountered by Different Professions
During COVID-19 Pandemic 125
with savings, 50.5 percent of their savings helped during the pandemic, with literate
respondents (82.7%) and small shop owners (15.5%) benefiting the most. Chi-square
tests revealed significant associations between educational status, profession, and whether
savings helped during the pandemic. Additionally, 48.5 percent relied on savings, 46.9
percent borrowed money, and a smaller number reduced food consumption or sought
NGO assistance. The study also found that 42.3% managed food carefully, using only
what was needed, while others avoided overconsumption and waste.
The study was conducted by Sohel et al. (2022) regarding the COVID-19-induced
impact on informal migrants in Bangladesh: a qualitative study revealed that some
survival strategies such as taking loans, reducing expenses, consuming less food, selling
land, jewelry, and goods, relatives and neighbor support, and government relief were
adopted during the pandemic. Although these strategies somewhat supported them to
struggle with the situation, their livelihood features became fragile immensely. This
study also showed that most respondents relied on savings during the pandemic, tracked
by borrowing from others, reducing food consumption, and seeking help from NGOs or
organizations.
A significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic was observed in food utilization
due to various issues such as food sanitation, food contamination, and decaying of food
(Adhikari et al., 2021). Lack of standard food safety procedures for food handling made
foods contaminated because of frequent touch by people. Due to reduced availability
and access to food, people bought the products that came to the market, which came
as violating food safety standards (Adhikari et al., 2021). Key strategies identified in
this study were strengthening economic resilience and addressing livelihood challenges
including saving earned income, storing food, engaging in small-scale farming,
maintaining cleanliness, adopting self-sustaining farming practices, utilizing vaccinations,
and managing social capital. Similar strategies have been practiced by the respondents
of this study. Therefore, impacts of COVID-19 has similar impacts on people’s daily
lifestyles and adopted similar types of coping strategies. This study also found that
consuming food properly in such a way that use as it is necessary occupied the first
position (42.3%) followed by not to use the consuming food more than necessary”
(29.3%) and not to throw more than needed when eating and cooking” (28.4%)
respectively.
The Keynesian theory emphasizes the greater role of government in overcoming
economic challenges by spending huge amounts of budget, and resources and mobilizing
state organs. Government expenditures accelerate the aggregate demand consequently
people’s purchasing power will improve to overcome the existing economic crisis, and
pandemic and improve their living standards. The study finding of this study is linked
with the assumptions of Keynesian theory of aggregate demand.
Far Western Review, Volume-2, Issue-2, December 2024, 106-129
Strategies for Overcoming Socio-Economic Challenges Encountered by Different Professions
During COVID-19 Pandemic 126
Conclusion
The study reveals the socioeconomic challenges faced by various professions
during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting issues such as income loss, difficulties in
managing daily food, and the inability to pay rent or loans. Most respondents reported
economic struggles, with many attributing the difficulties to lack of money, lockdown
restrictions, and increased food prices. A significant portion of the working class,
including private school teachers, drivers, co-drivers, farmers, and small business
owners, experienced hardships in sustaining their livelihoods. A majority of respondents
reported saving part of their income before the pandemic, which helped them navigate
the financial difficulties. However, this support varied by education and profession, with
literate individuals and small business owners benefiting the most from their savings.
Many respondents resorted to using their savings, borrowing from others, or reducing
food consumption to cope during the crisis. The pandemic also severely impacted
the agricultural sector, with mobility restrictions preventing farmers from accessing
markets to sell their produce. Farmers reported that their crops often went to waste,
and governmental assistance was inadequate, with much of the promised relief either
delayed or never materializing. Respondents across different municipalities, including
Gokarneshwor, Kathmandu, and Kirtipur, reported severe financial challenges, with
Gokarneshwor being hit the hardest. Local government officials, such as the deputy
mayor, described efforts to distribute food to daily wage workers and manage the health
crisis, including establishing isolation centers and vaccination drives. Despite these
efforts, challenges like oxygen shortages and delayed insurance payouts persisted and
other KII chairpersons highlighted community efforts, including food distribution and
economic aid to COVID-19 victims, though controversy arose regarding perceived
bias. It is concluded that responsible consumption is a crucial strategy for sustaining
life. Additionally, practices such as saving, food preservation, small-scale farming,
maintaining sanitation, adopting self-sufficiency, receiving vaccinations, and managing
social capital are essential for enhancing economic resilience and addressing livelihood
challenges. The pandemic underscored the need for collective action, financial prudence,
and robust community support mechanisms for future crises.
Acknowledgments
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the interviewers and respondents whose
invaluable contributions made this study possible. Our special thanks go to the University
Grants Commission, Sanothimi, Bhaktapur, for awarding us the “Faculty Research Grant”
UGC Award No.: FRG-78/79-H &S-07 in the year 2079 B.S. We also express our sincere
appreciation to the reviewers for their thoughtful guidance, feedback, and constructive
comments.

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Competing interests
The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.
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