My Final Thesis Achyuta

Status of the Women in Mass Media
(A Sociological Study of Radio Networks of Kathmandu Valley)
A Thesis
Submitted to:
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences,
Department of Sociology, Patan Multiple Campus, TU
For Partial Fulfillment of the Requirement of
Master’s Degree of Arts in Sociology
Submitted by:
Achyuta Mahat
Exam Roll no.: 220634
Campus Roll No. : 18/06
April 2019
RECOMMENDATION LETTER
This is to certify that the thesis entitled “Status of the Women in Mass Media (A
sociological study of the Radio Networks of Kathmandu Valley)" has been conducted in
Radio Networks of Kathmandu by Ms. Achyuta Mahat under my supervision and
guidance. I recommend this thesis work to be accepted as a partial fulfillment for
Master of Arts in Social Science, Department of Sociology, Patan Multiple Campus.
______________________
Dr. Pradip Parajuli
(Thesis Supervisor)
i
LETTER OF APPROVAL
The dissertation entitled “Status of the Women in Mass Media (A sociological study of
the Radio Networks of Kathmandu Valley)"submitted by Ms. Achyuta Mahat has been
evaluated and accepted as a requirement of partial requirement of the Master
Degree in Sociology.
____________________________
Ram Bahadur K.C.
(Head of Department)
________________________
Dr .Pradip Parajuli
(Thesis Supervisor)
________________________
Abhiyan K.C.
(External Examiner)
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I would like to express my profound gratitude to my respected supervisor Dr. Pradip

Parajuli for providing me precious time and guidance, creative comment and
encouragement for the preparation of this dissertation. I would like to extend my deep
gratitude to him. My sincere thank also goes to Ram Bahadur K.C. Head of
Department of Sociology, for his inspiration and encouragement. Similarly, I am very
much thankful to all my respected teachers for their support and inspiration.
I highly acknowledge the female Staff of Ujyalo Radio Network, Thaha sanchar
Radio Network and Nepali Radio Network who provided me valuable information. I
never forget their hearted support in the field which was my study area. Similarly, I
am thankful to all my friends and administrative officials of the Department of
Sociology
I am indebted to family members, relatives and friends who are the source of
inspiration and encouragement providing their wholehearted supports to prepare this
thesis.
Finally, I would like to thank all who have directly and indirectly assisted and
supported me to make this endeavor a success.
Achyuta Mahat
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ABBREVATION
A.D. : After Death of Christ
AM : Amplitude Modulation
AR : Alternative Radio
BBC : British Broadcasting Corporation
B.S. : Bikram Sambat
CA : Contitued Assembly
CC : Communication Corner
FM : Frequency Modulation
FNJ : Fedration of Nepali Journalist
IBM : International Business Machine
INGO : International Non-Governmental Organization
NGO : Non-Governmental Organization
NEFJ : The Nepal Forum of Environment Journalist
PCN : Press Council Nepal
PSA : Public Service Announcement
QR : Quick Response
SW : Short Wave
TV : Television
UNN : Ujyalo Ninety Network
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Table of Contents
RECOMMENDATION LETTER……..……………………………i
LETTER OF ACCEPTANCE……………………………………………ii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT……………………………………………...iii
ABBREVATION……………………………………………………….iv
TABLE OF CONTENTS……………………………………………...…v
LIST OF THE TABLE…………………………………………………viii

CHAPTER-ONE INTRODUCTION ..............................................................1
1.1 Background of the Study .......................................................................1
1.2 Statement of the problem.......................................................................2
1.3 Objective of the Study ...........................................................................3
1.4 Significance of the Study .......................................................................3
1.5 Organization of the study ......................................................................4
CHAPTER- Two Literature Review ..........................................................6
2.1 History of Nepali Mass Media ..............................................................6
2.2 History of Radio in Nepal....................................................................11
2.3 Media Development in Nepal ...............................................................13
2.4 Women and Media...............................................................................16
2.4 Division of Labour and Working Environment for Women ...............17
CHAPTER- THREE RESEARCH METHODOLOGY................................18
3.1 Research Design: .................................................................................18
3.2 Selection of the Study Area .................................................................18
3.3 The Universe and Sampling Size ........................................................18
3.4 Nature and Sources of Data .................................................................19
3.5 Data collection Techniques .................................................................19
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3.5.1 Interview Schedule ......................................................................19
3.5.2 Observation .................................................................................19
3.5.3 Key Informant Interview .............................................................20
3.6 Data Analysis and Presentation ...........................................................20
3.7 Limitation of the Study ........................................................................20
CHAPTER-FOUR PROFILE OF THE STUDY AREA .............................21
4.1 Introduction of the mass media ...........................................................21
4.2 Introduction of radio networks ............................................................21
4.2.1 Introduction of Ujyalo .................................................................23
4.2.2 Thaha Sanchar ..............................................................................24
4.2.3 Nepali Radio Network ..................................................................25
4.3 General Profile of the Respondent .......................................................26
4.3.1 Age ...............................................................................................26
4.3.2 Caste and Ethnic Distribution ......................................................27
4.3.3 Marital Status of Respondent ....................................................27
4.3.4 Education ...................................................................................28
CHAPTER-FIVE Data Presentation and Analysis ................................29
5.1 Status of the Respondents ....................................................................29
5.1.1 Bit or Sector of the Respondents ................................................29
5.1.2 Type of the Program Respondents Present Produce or
Reporting .................................................................................................30
5.1.3 Status of Decision Making Power ................................................30
5.1.4 Promotion of the Respondent ....................................................31
5.1.5 Salary .........................................................................................31
5.1.6 Change the Office......................................................................32
5.1.7 Chance of Change the Profession in Future .............................33
5.1.8 Chance to Get Capacity Building Training ................................33
5.1.9 Gender Discrimination in Chance to Get Capacity Building
Training ...................................................................................................34
5.1.10 Problem Faced due to Gender ...................................................35
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5.1.11 Gender Discrimination in Work Place ......................................35
5.1.12 Work Shift .................................................................................36
5.1.13 Gender Discrimination in Giving Responsibility .....................37
5.1.14 Family Support ..........................................................................37
5.1.15 Job Satisfaction .........................................................................37
5.1.16 Study or Training of the Journalism .........................................38
5.1.17 Lack of the Women in Journalism ............................................39
CHAPTER- Six SUMMERY CONCLUSION AND
RECOMMENDATION .................................................................................40
6.1 Summery ...............................................................................................40
6.2 Conclusion ............................................................................................43
6.3 Recommendation ..................................................................................44
vii
LIST OF THE TABLE
Table 4.1 Ratio Between Male and Female Staff in Ujyalo Radio Network 24
Table 4.2 Ratio Between Male Female Staff in Thaha Sanchar 25
Table 4.3 Ratio Between Male and Female Staff in Nepali Radio Network 26
Table 4.4 Distribution of the Respondent by Age Group 26
Table 4.5 Distribution of the Respondent by Cast 27
Table 4.6 Distribution of Respondent by Marital Status 28
Table 4.7 Distribution of the Respondent by Educational Status 28
Table 5.1 Distribution of Respondent by Bit/Sector of the Work 29
Table 5.2Distribution of Respondents by Type of the Program Present Produce or

Reporting 30
Table 5.3 Distribution of the Respondents by Status Decision Making Power 30
Table 5.4 Distribution of the Respondent by their Promotion 31
Table 5.5 Distribution of the Respondents by Salary 32
Table 5.6 Distribution of the Respondents by Change the Office 32
Table 5.7 Distribution of the Respondent by Change the Profession in Future 33
viii
Table 5.8 Distribution of the Respondent by Chance to Get Capacity Building
Training 34
Table 5.9 Distribution of the Respondents by Gender Discrimination in Getting
Capacity Building Training 34
Table 5.10 Distribution of the Respondent Problem Face by due to Gender 35
Table 5.11 Distribution of the Respondent by Work place Gender Discrimination 36
Table 5.12 Distribution of the Respondent by Work Shift Problem 36
Table5.13 Distribution of the Respondent by Family Support 37
Table 5.14 Distribution of the Respondent by Job Satisfaction 38
Table 5.15 Distribution of Respondent by Academic Qualification of the Journalism 38
Table 5.16 Distribution of the Respondent by Lack of the Women in the Field of the
Journalism 39
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CHAPTER- ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of the Study

In the world of communication, the term “media” generally refers to various means of
communication. Radio, Television, Internet and Newspapers are different types of
media. The term media can also be used as a collective noun for the news agencies
and the press. In communication, media can also be defined as the storage and
transmission channels or tools used to store and deliver information or data.
There can be numerous definitions for the term media but, the only purpose behind
every media is, to enable people to communicate. It helps them to communicate from
far and wide and about everything, it keeps them updated and aware about everything
in the world. And this purpose of the media has turned our world into a global village
where everybody knows about what is happening around.
According to Wells and Hakanen, this modern era is the age of media. Print, audio
and video are more pervasive than ever before. The Earth is surrounded by
communication satellites, and although not equally, rich and poor are linked to the
single emerging media world.
In the book, Mass media and society, it has been pointed out that, the last few years
have seen a growth of interest in how the media work and how they affect the daily
lives of the people. Today, we all are turning more and more to the media that any
other thing, not only for technical information, but also for general news of political
and social issues as well. The media, then, appear to have a direct effect on us than
ever before. (Wells and Hakanen, 1997, 11)
The history of modern mass media in Nepal is not so much long. Although the
institutional history of Nepali press could be traced back to 1851 when Rana Prime
Minister Jung Bahadur Rana installed a printing press (the Giddhe Press) in 1901 and
the state-owned newspaper, the Gorkhapatra, was launched, its practical history
1
begins in the 1950s, after the fall of Ranas, when several pioneering journalists took
to publishing newspapers in a transitional democracy. However, the restoration of
democracy in 1990 made a drastic change in Nepali mass media especially in the
matter of promoting the private sector in media. The constitution of Nepal formally
guaranteed the freedom of press and publication in 1990. Afterwards, mass media
sector faced many changes during the Maoist insurgency, king’s direct rule and the
times of different political ups and downs.
F.M. radio is the great instrument which deals with the verities of social issues.
Linked directly or indirectly with the society certainly the process of development
extension and promotion of business industries and trade, change of ideas and
thoughts of the people socialization, political democratization and globalization
implies the necessity of the radio programs. Markoni established the radio technology
around 108 years ago drastic change has been brought in the field of information
entertainment. Then after the few decades the concept of community and brought on
the basis of Markoni's technology. The first implication of community radio service
was raised is Bolivia in 1947 A.D." which was known as voice of minor"(Bhusal,
2001)
Nepali society has integrated a tremendous amount of change during the last few
decades during the last few decades since the new revolution of 1950. The new ones
have replaced many old values, traditions concepts and social phenomenon. In today's
world F.M. radio are playing vital role to generate the information news and
entertainment to the all level of people in the society.
1.2 Statement of the problem

In the field of communication participation of female ratio is less than male. On the
one hands in number participation of women in communication sector is less and on
the other hand who are participate they can't able to give continuity in this field
According to International Federation of Journalists survey (2015) on media and

gender, only 24% of total journalists are women. Government institutions related to
media also have lower representation of women, so it has become not easy for the
formulation of women friendly governmental policies. For instance, most level
employees in different media-related organizations like Press Council of Nepal or
2
Radio Nepal, Gorkhapatra Sansthan or Nepal television of National News Council are
men.
There are very few women at top decision-making roles; women are generally
confined to roles within middle and lower management. The environment and policies
of media workplaces are not yet conducive for women to advance in their professional
careers.
With few women editors, women at junior levels also lack role models. It is clear that
when women are missing at senior management levels, basic facilities like maternal
leave, childcare services, flexible working hours and transport services also tend to be
neglected. In addition, with men more likely to be seen as the sole family
breadwinners, male salaries tend to be higher than those of their women colleagues in
similar positions or with similar responsibilities. There is also a divide in the types of
stories assigned to men and women journalists, with male journalists typically
reporting on politics and business and women generally covering entertainment and
lifestyle.
1.3 Objective of the Study
Each and every research has some sorts objectives. The objectives of this research are
as follows:
• To analyze the status of female in radio networks
• To find out if women are in the decision making level
• To evaluate the gender discrimination status in radio networks
1.4 Significance of the Study
Men and women are endowed with equal rights to perform their activities. In our
society men have always been regarded as the sole, controller and supervisor of all the
activities and also regarded as the breadwinner women are subjected to several
boundaries and isolated from the social activities. In the context of Nepal due to
3
conservative tradition, illiteracy, poverty to serve her husband smoothly without any
comment our social myth is that women are basically interior and their efforts are less
valuable than men and there are many cultural restrictions to women.
There are so many research have been conduct on the base of gender but no national-
level survey has been conducted to chart a picture of women participation in media in
Nepal, research done by some private organizations shows a grim scenario. One can
hardly find female editors in national level newspapers except for some few local and
district level newspapers. According to the Information Department, there are only 97
women are editors and the number of female editors in radio and television is small.
1.5 Organization of the study
This study will be divided into five chapters. First chapter includes introduction,
which includes background of the study, statement of the problem, objective of the
study, significance of the study and organization of the study.
Second chapter is devoted to the review of the literature. In this chapter various
books, articles and reports related to the present study are reviewed.
Third chapter leads with methodology which includes selection of study area, research
design, nature and sources of data, universe and sampling, techniques and tools of
data collection methods of data analysis and presentation.
Chapter four contains a shorts profile of the study area which conclude the
introduction of the mass media, introduction of the studied radio networks and the
demography of male female ratio in study area and the general profile of the
respondents.
Chapter five deals with the status of the women of the study area which is heavily
supplemented by data collected from the field.
4
Chapter six provides a brief summary of the whole study. Similarly, what is the
conclusion of this study includes along with the recommendation of the study.
5
Chapter- Two
Literature Review
2.1 History of Nepali Mass Media
Mass media is third arm of Nepal today. Media is regarded as very powerful aspect of
the nation. It is ‘Voice of Voiceless’ and ‘Leg of a lame’. Thus, media plays vital role
in the development of a country. Studying about media has grown rapidly these days
at it is very significant to us. To know about it, we need to learn to the root of it. The
history of mass media in Nepal dates back to centuries.
Decades, there was system of ‘Katuwal Karauney’ in Nepal for the sake of
communication. Katuwal was the person who was responsible for the dissemination
of the information throughout the villages and a nation. Also, pigeons, horses were
used to transfer the information through letters in the previous era of Nepal.
‘Gaiyenes’ and ‘Gandharvas’ were said to be transferring the news through their
songs from one part of the nation to the other. There were many traditional ways to
communicate. But, with the pace of time mass media became more advanced and
forward.
The historical development of mass media can be eyed clearly dividing the stages
onto five different parts:
1) Pre- Gorkhapatra Period ( Before 1901 A.D)
2) 1901 -1951 (After the publication of Gorkhapatra to till the Rana period)
3) 1951-1961 (Democracy period)
4) 1961-1990 ( Panchayat period)
5) 1990 to onwards (After the restoration of democracy)
6
1) Pre- Gorkhapatra Period ( Before 1901 A.D)
Before the arrival of printing press in Nepal, Late king Prithivi Narayan Shah had
established postal systems and had used traditional ways of communication
effectively throughout the nation. But, the period which is after the arrival of printing
press is modern history of Nepal.
The modern history of mass media in Nepal starts with the coming of printing press
brought by Jangha Bahadur Rana in 1851 A.D(1908) B.S. from Britain.
This printing press was named as ‘Giddhe Chhapakhana’ for the reason it contained
the sign of eagle in it. Since then, it gave way for the printing media of Nepal. After
this press, “Manoranjana” press was established. After 3years of its establishment
‘Muluki Ain’ of Nepal was published. This was of 1038 pages.
The first magazine to get published in Nepali language was ‘Gorkha Bharat Jiwan’
which was printed in Banaras of India. Meanwhile, the first magazine published in
Nepal in Nepali language was ‘Sudha Sagar’ in 1898 A.D which was printed by
Pashupat Press. It’s not that only these two magazines were published during those
periods, but then many magazines got published in Nepali language for India.
Similarly, other printing presses were ‘Jungi Lithography Press’ , ‘ Chandra Prabaha
Press’ , ‘Buddha Press’, ‘Narayan Press’ and ‘Pashupat Press’.
2) 1901 – 1951
Due to strict Rana Rules, peoples were not allowed to publish newspapers. After the
establishment of Dev Samsher’s policy, people were then allowed to publish
newspapers. Gorkhapatra was first established in 1901, after the 2 years and 10
months of the publication of ‘Sudha Sagar’ in Nepal.
In 2000 B.S Gorkhapatra was published twice a week. Chronologically, in 2003 B.S it
got published thrice a week. The name of the editor of this newspaper was not
7
legalised to publish by Rana Rulers till 1934 A.D. Aftermath, literary magazine
‘Sharada’ was published. On 1913 A.D telephone service was started. After producing
500 kilo watt electricity in 1911 A.D Nepal entered to the era of electric press.
3) 1951 – 1961 (Democracy Period)
The year 1951 A.D. was bad luck for the Ranarchy. Rana Rule ended in this era and
gave way to multi party system which led the nation to Democracy. After the arrival
of democracy in Nepal, ‘Awaj’, the first daily news paper of Nepal got published.
Some of the daily newspapers published during democracy period are Samaj, Nepal
Samachar, The Motherland, Dainik Samachar, Fillingo, Naya Samaj, Sahi Rasta,
Diyalo, Kalpana, and commoner, Goretor, Prabakta and Everest News.
The real development of mass media started in this period. Bi- lingual newspapers got
their way in the history of mass media. In 20th Chhaitra, 2007 B.S., radio broadcast
was formally established in this period. There were two agencies in this period,
Samvad samiti and Sagarmatha Samvad Samiti. His Majesty’s government
contributed for the first press commission of 1956 A.D.
4) 1961 – 1990 ( Panchayat Period)
King Mahendra threw the multi – party system by being dissatisfied with the work of
P.M. B.P koirala of that time. Due to this autocratic rule had enveloped the nation.
This period is also known as the darkest period in the field of Mass media in Nepal.
Journalists were abducted, prohibited from their rights, killed and threatened. Thus,
Panchayat period became the barrier for the continuous development of Mass media
in Nepal. So, we can divide this period into two parts : Pre – referendum and the post
referendum, where referendum greatly had influence on mass media by creating a gap
between anti – panchayat and pro – panchayat journalists.
However, there were some remarkable infrastructure development during this era .
Gorkhapatra was made daily newspaper in 1961 A.D. After that ‘Rising Nepal’ first
8
newspaper in English got its position. Some magazines such as Madhuparka and
Yuvamanch (both in Nepali) , the Nepalese Perspective ( in English).
The film industry of Nepal has a history with Panchayat period. Documentary about
the 42nd birthday of King Mahendra was created by Hira Singh Khatri who came from
Bollywood of India. At the mean time, the first Nepali film was produced in India in
1950. The first film in Nepali language was ‘Satya Harischandra’. Whilst, ‘Aama’
was the first feature film made in 1965 with Black and White colors. Later, Nepali
films became color in this period.
In this period, a national news agency name ‘Rastriya Samvad Samiti’ was
established in 1962 A.D. This agency was later renamed as ‘Rastriya Samachar
Samiti’. The other development activities that occurred in this period were multi –
color printing press got its way.
In the other hand, Ministry of Information and communication was established in

1971 A.D. Some of the remarkable corporations which helped in uplifting the mass
media in Nepal such as Gorkhapatra Corporation, Royal Nepal Film Corporation,
Nepal Telecommunication Corporation, Ratna Recording Corporation, Cultural
Corporation, RSS, and Sajha Prakashan etc were all established in this panchayat
period.
The project to enter Satellite Communication with the joint collaboration of HMG,
Nepal and British Government happened in the year 1982. This helped in the
telephone service, telex, fax and many more elements.
National radio, Radio Nepal got true shape of national broadcasting service during
this period. The other stupendous result in the age of panchayat regime was that the
television station to got established. The Nepal Television was established in 2042
B.S formally.
Although, it was tough for journalists and mass media for the dissemination of
information, Nepali journalism was divided as pro – Panchayat and anti – Panchayat.
Many journalists were in the favour of democracy.
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Thus, Panchayat system can be defined as “era of struggle for press freedom and
infrastructure development in Nepalese media.”
5) 1990 to Onwards (After the Restoration of Democracy)
The multiparty system was restored in this era which returned by the Democracy in
Nepal. This has access effect in the development of mass media positively in Nepal.
The establishment of constitution secured the freedom of opinion and expression in
1990, along with guaranteeing the right to press and publication. Following, the right
to information was formulated. This gave way for the rapid development of mass
media in Nepal.
The colourful broadsheet dailies, including Nepali and English language were
published. News magazines such as Himal, Nepal, Samaya etc emerged.
The Kantipur publication was established with more than Rs 30 million. It published
Kantipur and The Kathmandu Post in 2049 Falgun 7th which were the first broadsheet
national dailies from private sector. New wave of F.M broadcasting from non-
government and private sector is started. Some private channels are Channel Nepal,
Image Metro, and Kantipur Television etc. In 2061 Bhadra Kantipur, Channel Nepal
and Space Time were vandalized by unknown groups of people, which can be taken
as black day in Nepalese media.
The participation of women in Nepalese journalism is relative not so old. In the year
2008 B.S., after the publication of monthly magazine “Mahila” women’s participation
in Nepalese media was observed. Sadhana Pradhan and Kamakshya Devi were
editors, for the magazine. Since then some women were seen as editors for weekly
and monthly magazines.
The restoration of democracy in 2006 has paved the way for the development of
media in Nepal. Local FM radio stations had started airing the programs in local
languages.
10
Meanwhile, the study of journalism was included in the secondary education course
as well as higher secondary board offered education in Mass Communication and
journalism in Nepal. We do have under graduation and graduation programmes in the
field of Media Studies, Mass Communication and Journalism in various colleges and
Universities now.
Thus, those were the eras of the history in the development of mass media in Nepal.
New technologies of Internet and mobile phones are taking place in the market day by
day. This indicates the progress of mass media in Nepal.
2.2 History of Radio in Nepal

Radio Nepal is the first radio of Nepal. Radio Nepal was established on 1st April
1951. Initially, the transmission covered duration of 4 hours and 30 minutes through a
250 Watt SW transmitter. Over the years, Radio Nepal has strengthened its
institutional capacity considerably and diversified itself in terms of programme
format, technical efficiency and coverage. Radio Nepal airs programmes on Short
Wave, Medium Wave and FM frequencies. Regular broadcasts cover duration of 18
hours everyday which includes about 2 hours of regional broadcasts 09:45 hrs. to
11:00 hrs. in the morning and 18:00 hrs 18:30 hrs in the evening. FM Kathmandu, the
first FM-Channel covering Kathmandu valley and adjoining areas was started in 1995
from its premises at Singh Durbar, Kathmandu.
Radio broadcasting is the cheapest and quickest means of mass communications in

Nepal. In a mountainous country like Nepal, radio broadcasting has proved to be a
very effective medium for disseminating information, educating people and
entertaining the masses. Radio Nepal recognizes that its primary obligation is to serve
its listeners. It has been providing various programs aimed at creating mass awareness
in its attempt to reflect the views of all sections of the society. The people in the hilly
areas and many of the remote villages have little or no access to motor able roads nor
to any communication and entertainment facilities. Illiteracy being a common feature
among the people, little use is made of the newspapers, which have very limited and
delayed circulation. Therefore, Radio has been the most suitable means of
11
disseminating information and providing entertainment to masses in Nepal.
In the absence of broadcasting from the private sector, the history and development of
Radio Nepal is the history of radio broadcasting in Nepal during the royal direct rule.
State-owned Radio Nepal remained the sole broadcasting agency in the country. The
station extended its short-wave broadcast and added medium wave (AM) frequency in
1969 and the broadcast was up to ten hours a day. Radio remained the most accessible
and effective medium in Nepal because of geographic conditions, lack of
transportation, illiteracy, and the poor economic condition of the people. However, in
the absence of radio broadcasting from non-governmental sectors, Radio Nepal
enjoyed a monopoly of the airwaves and remained a propaganda machine of the
government during the 30 years of the Panchayat system. According to a 1997 survey
of radio ownership and listeners, nine out of ten radio listeners mentioned listening to
Radio Nepal (Maung & Ghimire, 1997).
Nepal officially changed from a monarchical non-party system to a parliamentary

model in 1990. The new constitution revealed the right to freedom of expression. It
ensured every citizen the right to information of their concern and any matter of
public importance. Moreover, the constitution enabled media-friendly policies. As a
result, National Communication Policy- 1992, National Broadcasting Act- 1993 and
Broadcast Regulations- 1995 were brought into practice. “Prior to 1994, radio
broadcasting was the exclusive domain of Radio Nepal, the state broadcaster,
established in the early 1950s. Even after 1990 state governments were slow in
relinquishing monopoly control of radio broadcasting. The first independent license
was granted only in 1997, four and a half years after the initial application”.
Nepal is the first South Asian country to establish independent community radio. The
Nepal Forum of Environmental Journalists (NEFEJ) spearheaded the movement to
establish FM radio in the country. After five years of lobbying, NEFEJ was able to get
a license from the government to set up Nepal's as well as South Asia's first
independent radio station, Radio Sagarmatha (Mainali; 2003:24). After the
establishment of the country’s first independent broadcaster, Radio Sagarmatha, in
1997, many community matters of public interest were transmitted. Arjun Banjade
submitted a case study on “Community Radio in Nepal” to the Scripps College of
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Communication of Ohio University in 2007 as a form of dissertation. “In Nepal, the
growth of electronic media in the late 1990s is credited to the liberal political
environment that provided space for radio broadcasting from commercial as well as
nongovernmental organizations. In 1997, Nepal became the first country in South
Asia to grant a license to operate a radio station run by nongovernmental sectors. The
government of Nepal provided licenses to 50 more FM radio stations in October 2006,
bringing the total number of radio stations to 106. Twenty of the radio stations already
on air are self-declared community radio stations started mainly by community groups
and nongovernmental organizations.”
Hence, the political improvement and loyalty of state towards the public helped to
increase radio stations in Nepal. Radio Sagarmatha, the first community radio of
Nepal, struggled for years to reach transmission. Nonetheless, establishment of
community radio with a participatory communication model became a milestone of
community media, especially against the supremacy of traditional media trends.
Later, radio Madanpokhara was licensed as Nepal’s first rural community radio.
Community radio has grown in number gradually from one license in 1997 to 90 at
the end of 2007. Until late August 2011, the government had issued 393 licenses.34
Infoasaid, a media project, listed 404 licensed FM radios in Nepal by 2011.
2.3 Media Development in Nepal

The first printing press arrived in Nepal around the year 1850 and the first newspaper
– Gorkhapatra, a weekly – began publishing in 1901. A 1901 decree issued by the
then Prime Minister Dev Sumsher was the first policy related to media, stating what
was and was not ‘fit’ to be published. The newspaper was effectively a mouthpiece of
the regime. Its purpose was to inform people on state affairs, but the rulers did not
provide people with a space to express themselves freely. Although one edict in the
decree said ‘not to shower praise on the incumbent ruler’, in practice, the official
newspaper’s principal task was to lionize the deeds of the rulers.
The Government of Nepal Act of 1948 was the first to mention ‘Freedom of Press and
Expression’. The act was triggered by the sweeping political changes in India that
gained independence from the British Empire that same year. In 1948, the
13
Fundamental Rights Act was promulgated, and it specified the procedures for
establishing a printing press and registering a newspaper. It also specified matters that
were restricted for printing and publication. However, there were no private
newspapers until 1950, when democratic changes began.
Democracy was introduced to Nepal in 1951. It marked the end of 104 years of rule
by hereditary Rana prime ministers. The restoration of democracy brought political
and media freedoms, which were institutionalized in the Interim Government of Nepal
Act. The period witnessed the development of private newspapers, and by 1958 there
were 39 newspapers including 14 dailies – 12 of them privately published. The state-
owned broadcasting station, Radio Nepal, began operations in April 19515.
The first parliamentary elections were held in 1959, but King Mahendra dismissed the
elected government in 1960, and in 1962 he promulgated a new constitution that
consolidated his rule and made political parties and reporting on them and their
activities illegal. For the next 30 years, the media was tightly controlled, but there
were some party-affiliated newspapers that defied these restrictions and continued
publishing on the parties’ activities. The state-run news agency, Rastriya Samachar
Samiti, was established in 1961, and the Press Council Nepal (PCN) in 1971.
A popular uprising in 1989-1990 led to the restoration of multiparty democracy and

constitutional monarchy in Nepal. The new constitution promulgated in 1990 ushered
in an era of liberal democracy and press freedom. Article 13 guaranteed the rights of
the printing press and newspapers. It provided guarantees to the media against pre-
censorship on publications, closure or confiscation of printing press outlets, or
cancellation of the registration of a newspaper for publication of any material.
Further, Article 16 guaranteed ‘the right to demand and acquire information on any
matter of public importance.’ In 1992, the elected government formed a commission
to recommend media policy and, based on its report, it enacted a law that allowed
independent broadcasting.
Digital technology arrived in Nepal in 1971 when a computer leased by IBM was
used for processing census data. In 2003, Nepal formulated a long-term Information
and Technology Policy that prioritized the expansion of telecommunication
infrastructure and the formation of a regulatory mechanism.
14
The internal armed conflict began in Nepal in 1996, and continued until 2006. During
this period, the media and journalists faced attacks from both Maoist insurgents and
government forces. The violent conflict ended with the Comprehensive Peace Accord,
in which the government and the Maoists agreed on promulgating a new interim
constitution, holding the election of a Constituent Assembly (CA), managing arms
and armies and establishing democracy and peace. The Interim Constitution of Nepal,
promulgated on 15 January 2007, provided the basis for media freedoms after the end
of the conflict. The CA elected in April 2008 abolished Nepal’s 240-year-old
monarchy and declared the country a Federal Democratic Republic.
After the 2006 political changes, the government formed the High-Level Media
Recommendation Commission to recommend media policy. The commission
submitted its report to the prime minister in September the same year7. The
Commission’s report on media policy has remained largely unimplemented.
Data maintained by the Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) show that attacks
against journalists escalated during the conflict and decreased considerably after
2006, but attacks on journalists and media workers have not completely stopped.
Threats to and harassment of journalists has also continued, aided by a weak state and
a general climate of insecurity in the country.
The Interim Constitution guarantees free expression, right to information and equal
freedoms to the press, broadcasting and online media, and also extends this to
communications technology, particularly telephones – which had been shut down
during the royal takeover of 2005. The Committee on Fundamental Rights and
Directive Principles of the CA had submitted its draft on media freedoms in
November 2009, which provides an indication of what can be expected in the new
constitution.
In 2013, Nepal had 3408 registered newspapers, 515 radio stations and 58 television
channels. However, not all newspapers are published regularly. Among the 874 that
the Press Council classified as regular, there were 165 dailies, four bi-weeklies, 559
weeklies, and 36 fortnightlies. With regard to broadcasting, 360 of the radio stations
were on the air. Table 1 summarizes the development of the media in Nepal in terms
of the number of different types of media in the country.
15
2.4 Women and Media
Nepalese mass media faces barriers due to the confined geography of the country.
Mass circulation of the print media and coverage of electronic media are unfortunate.
Both press and electronic media are concentrated in urban centers and have limited
significance to rural people. This has affected participation of women in Nepalese
mass media.
Sadhana Pradhan and Kamachha Devi, who jointly edited Nepali language monthly
magazine in the early 1950s were perhaps the first women journalists in Nepal. The
same year two other monthly magazines Prabha and Janabikash, edited by
Priyambda and Ramadevi respectively were published.
Since these pioneer women journalists left their mark in Nepali media, women’s
presence in media has gradually increased, especially after democracy was reinstated
in 1990. Increasingly more women are working in radio and television, and now
online media houses at both national and local levels. Yet, female presence is still
miniscule when compared to the development of media and the involvement of men
in the field. For instance, only 1613 members (16%) are females out of the 10077
general members of Nepal Journalist Federation. Of them, less than 50% of women
are actively participating according to the recent report presented by the president of
Nepal Journalists’ Federation.
Although no national-level survey has been conducted to chart a picture of women

participation in media in Nepal, research done by some private organizations shows a
grim scenario. One can hardly find female editors in national level newspapers except
for some few local and district level newspapers. According to the Information
Department, there are only 97 women are editors and the number of female editors in
radio and television is small.
The convergence of new media technologies and influx of private media

organizations in the last decade has increased the number of women working in both
print and electronic media. However, women have not gained parity with men in
16
terms of participation and decision making. Top management is still entirely male
dominated and patriarchal with only a negligible number of women holding senior
positions. Although women have become more visible particularly in radio and
television as presenters, announcers and reporters, the gender division of labour is
highly pronounced in production, creative and
technical departments, which are male dominated. The presence of women is also
absent in any official commissions, boards or committees formed for formulating
policies or monitoring the media.
2.4 Division of Labour and Working Environment for Women

Where earlier it was almost impossible to find a woman reporting on politics and
economy now few young women have emerged who are reporting on such issues.
However, the gender division of labour is still very much evident in the way coverage
of stories is assigned in most media organisations. Women still tend to be assigned to
"soft issues" such as culture, art, lifestyle while men are assigned to political and
economic stories which are considered more as "real issues."
Although the number of women entering media is increasing, stereotyped attitudes,

sexual harassment, unfair treatment in assignments and promotions, traditional gender
hierarchies, lack of support mechanisms for working women pose as obstacles that
hinder women from joining the media or assuming decision making positions. Though
there has been no authentic research to justify the fact, many have felt that the
widespread cases of sexual harassment within media organizations has been a means
to control and exclude women from occupying key positions in the industry.
17
CHAPTER- THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.1 Research Design:

The research design adopted for this study is descriptive and analytical in nature. It
describes the present condition of women in study area. The main objective of this
research is to find out the workers of radio networks and especially the women's
participation and their role in the radio networks.
3.2 Selection of the Study Area

Radio networks of Kathmandu valley will be selected as the study area for this study.
The reasons behind selection these areas for the study are as follows:
• The selected study area is an urban area with sufficient infrastructure for the
development of themselves but very few were in the decision making plan
and active participation on overall activities.
• The study area is a communication media and communication media gives
information about gender equality, so this study tries to get information about
either communication media gives equal opportunity to the men and women?
3.3 The Universe and Sampling Size

Radio Networks of Kathmandu valley was listed as a sampling frame. The total
number of radio networks in Kathmandu valley are six which was identified as the
universe of the study. Out of total six networks three respondents was chosen
randomly as sample. In the sampling process simple random sampling was adopted.
The universe is only the female respondents of the selected radio networks. The
sample size was about 50% of the universe.
18
3.4 Nature and Sources of Data
Both primary and secondary data has been used to fulfill the objectives of the
study. Primary data was collected during a filed work by using different tools and
technique like interview schedule, observation questionnaire etc. In the same way
secondary data has been gather from libraries, published documents, articles,
reports etc.
3.5 Data collection Techniques

In order to obtain the necessary and reliable data for the study, different tools and
techniques has been used s given below:
• Interview Schedule
• Field observation
• Key informant interview
3.5.1 Interview Schedule

A set of questionnaires has been prepared and in depth interviews has been carried
out. The respondents were made to understand the question first and answer. Most of
the questions were close ended while some question are asked for respondent's view
ideas are left open for respondents to express their ideas freely.
3.5.2 Observation
The researcher has been constantly observing the field to derive out conclusions. With
the checklist, group discussion on the issue of the status of women in radio networks
are helpful for the conclusions which increased the reliability of the data. Through the
observation, the participation and the role of the respondents are known.
19
3.5.3 Key Informant Interview
Interview schedule for key informant interview: chairperson of the radio networks
were identified as key informant. The interview schedule was prepared for the
interview and the data so collected coped with the information of key informant.
3.6 Data Analysis and Presentation

The collected primary data has been classified, tabulated, and interpreted according to
the requirement. Simple statistical tools were used for the analyzing the quantitative
data and the qualitative data were described, explained and logically analyzed.
3.7 Limitation of the Study

As this dissertation is prepared for the partial fulfillment of Master's Degree, only the
Radio Networks of Kathmandu Valley was selected. So it is a micro- level study, and
being a micro-level study it may not cover the situation of whole country. The data
has been collected from questionnaire, observation, interviewing people.
20
CHAPTER- FOUR
PROFILE OF THE STUDY AREA
4.1 Introduction of the mass media

Mass media refers to a diverse array of media technologies that reach a large audience
via mass communication. The technologies through which this communication takes
place include a variety of outlets.
Broadcast media transmit information electronically via media such as films, radio,
recorded music, or television. Digital media comprises both Internet and mobile mass
communication. Internet media comprise such services as email, social
media sites, websites, and Internet-based radio and television. Many other mass media
outlets have an additional presence on the web, by such means as linking to or
running TV ads online, or distributing QR Codes in outdoor or print media to direct
mobile users to a website. In this way, they can utilise the easy accessibility and
outreach capabilities the Internet affords, as thereby easily broadcast information
throughout many different regions of the world simultaneously and cost-
efficiently. Outdoor media transmit information via such media as AR
advertising; billboards; blimps; flying billboards (signs in tow of airplanes); placards
or kiosks placed inside and outside buses, commercial buildings, shops, sports
stadiums, subway cars, or trains; signs; or skywriting. Print media transmit
information via physical objects, such as books, comics, magazines, newspapers,
or pamphlets Event organizing and public speaking can also be considered forms of
mass media.
The organizations that control these technologies, such as movie studios, publishing
companies, and radio and television stations, are also known as the mass media.
4.2 Introduction of radio networks

There are two types of radio network currently in use around the world: the one-to-
many (simplex communication) broadcast network commonly used for public
information and mass-media entertainment, and the two-way radio (duplex
communication) type used more commonly for public safety and public services such
21
as police, fire, taxicabs, and delivery services. Cell phones are able to send and
receive simultaneously by using two different frequencies at the same time. Many of
the same components and much of the same basic technology applies to all three.
Here we talk about first type of radio network
The broadcast type of radio network is a network system which

distributes programming to multiple stations simultaneously, or slightly delayed, for
the purpose of extending total coverage beyond the limits of a single broadcast signal.
The resulting expanded audience for radio programming or information essentially
applies the benefits of mass-production to the broadcasting enterprise. A radio
network has two sales departments, one to package and sell programs to radio
stations, and one to sell the audience of those programs to advertisers.
Most radio networks also produce much of their programming. Originally, radio
networks owned some or all of the stations that broadcast the network's radio
format programming. Presently however, there are many networks that do not own
any stations and only produce and/or distribute programming. Similarly station
ownership does not always indicate network affiliation. A company might own
stations in several different markets and purchase programming from a variety of
networks.
Radio networks rose rapidly with the growth of regular broadcasting of radio to home
listeners in the 1920s. This growth took various paths in different places.
In Britain the BBC was developed with public funding, in the form of a broadcast
receiver license, and a broadcasting monopoly in its early decades. In contrast, in
the United States various competing commercial broadcasting networks arose funded
by advertising revenue. In that instance, the same corporation that owned or operated
the network often manufactured and marketed the listener’s radio.
Major technical challenges to be overcome when distributing programs over long

distances are maintaining signal quality and managing the number of switching/relay
points in the signal chain. Early on, programs were sent to remote stations (either
owned or affiliated) by various methods, including leased telephone lines, pre-
recorded gramophone recordsand audio tape. The world's first all-radio, non-wireline
network was claimed to be the Rural Radio Network, a group of six upstate New
York FM stations that began operation in June 1948. Terrestrial microwave relay, a
22
technology later introduced to link stations, has been largely supplanted by coaxial
cable, fiber, and satellite, which usually offer superior cost-benefit ratios.
4.2.1 Introduction of Ujyalo

Communication Corner (CC) Nepal's largest independent broadcasting organization,
brings its audience news of politics, business and economics, society, entertainment,
sports, science and technology, health, agriculture as well as other topics.
CC runs Ujyaalo 90 Network (UNN) a combination of FM, satellite and online

broadcast which values public service broadcasting. CC was established and
continues to be managed by a creative and enthusiastic group of radio professionals
dedicated to producing, broadcasting and managing innovative radio projects in
Nepal.
Since its inception in 1998, CC has continuously increased its efforts to educate and
inform the general public through effective radio and training programs. CC has also
been a pioneer in radio program design, production, broadcast management and
networking with various production groups and FM radio stations across the country.
CC is made up of about 60 media professionals and experts in its main office at

Kathmandu valley and more than 70 reporters across the country.
CC has a separate broadcasting wing, Ujyaalo 90 Network (UNN) which integrates

broadcasts on FM 90 MHz for Kathmandu Valley, satellite audio broadcast for the
rest of Nepal and South Asia and online broadcast for Nepali expatriates around the
globe.
CC produces a variety of radio programs focused on public concerns. The program

formats are diverse including radio news bulletins, current affairs, magazine and serial
& mini radio dramas. CC also designs and produces sponsored radio spots, PSAs,
and jingles. The target audience for CC production varies from urban elite listeners to
the rural poor as well as youth across the country. CC has been producing radio
programs and campaigns which focus on subjects like sustainable peace,
development, reforms, human rights, post conflict issues, constitution making,
education, health, science, information communication technology and the daily
23
livelihood of the common people. Currently CC's productions are distributed and
receive high ratings in Kathmandu Valley, across the country and around the globe
among Nepali speaking population.
Table 4.1 Ratio Between Male and Female Staff in Ujyalo Radio Network
S.No Particulars No. of staff Percentage
1 Male 37 69
2 Female 17 31
3 Total 54 100
Source; Field Survey, 2019
4.2.2Thaha Sanchar
Radio Thaha Sanchar is freely transmitting the realities, troubles and the suppressed
voices of the voiceless people in its continuous 24×7 transmission.
It is being transmitted with 500 0watt capacity in Kathmandu (99.4 FM) and 1000
watt from Hetauda (99.6 FM). Realizing the fact that, though there are adequate
numbers of radios operating in the country, the working class people are not getting
proper outlet to forward their voices but we are committed to do this through Thaha
Sanchar Network.
It has near 100 FM radio partners located in different regions of the country. We are
aimed to provide 21st century quality based radio service that contains fact news,
information and high quality entertainment program as well. We are offering a wide
variety of people an opportunity to share their experiences, concerns, and perspectives
via its transmission.
This Radio reflects as a mirror and echoes the voice to connect its listeners with each
other and the world through quality and standard programs addressing the different
cultural, social and age group. Radio Thaha has joined hands with various business
companies and NGO/INGO’s to promote their business and service. Thaha Sanchar
99.4 FM has been doing its best to upgrade constantly the benchmarks of Nepali
advertising world since inception.
24
Table 4.2 Ratio Between Male Female Staff in Thaha Sanchar
S.No Particulars No. of Staff Percentage
1 Male 24 75
2 Female 8 25
3 Total 32 100
Source; Field Survey,2019
4.2.3 Nepali Radio Network

Nepali radio network was established in 2072/12/19. It has more than 100 FM radio
partners located in different regions of the country. It is established with aims to be a
responsible and independent network of Nepali radio network. The main aim is to
form with due informed Nepalese society caring rights of getting independent and
professional information. Still more than 50 % of population is out of independent and
credible information reach though more than 650 radios in 77 districts. Half dozen of
radio networks are permitted from information and communication ministry. It is said
that there are more radios than needed in Nepal though 50 % of population are out of
reach. Many research reports find out that many established radios are not
independent and credible information sharing.
Though radios are the means of social change, they are not able to mobilize people
and make their rights of information protected and radios are depending with other
raise a big question mark on future of radios.
This radio network will work for with due informed society protecting the rights of
people. It works to make radios more responsible, reliable and well governed in
politics, business, economy, social, entertainment, education, science and technology,
health, agriculture, job, youth mobilization, environment like national issues that
directly linked with society. This radio network works to make cordial relation
between people, nation and its hands for prosperous society and nation.
This radio network comes to existence for lobbing for the environment to minimize
brain drain and labor drain and make young people involved in politics for future of
nation building.
25
Thus, this radio network from the beginning will work coordinating with effective and
efficient district radios and mobilize community to establish small radio where there
is no radio.
Table 4.3 Ratio Between Male and Female Staff in Nepali Radio Network
S.No Particulars No. of Staff Percentage
1 Male 15 71
2 Female 6 29
3 Total 21 100
4.3 General Profile of the Respondent

In this part we talk about general profile of the respondents.
4.3.1 Age
Age is an important demographic characteristic. Age structure of any society shows
the overall picture of the socio-economic prospect. Role and responsibilities of the
respondent, ownership of property, decision making power etc. are effected by age
The age group of respondent detail is below:
Table 4.4 Distribution of the Respondent by Age Group

S.No Age group No. of respondent Percentage
1 Below 20 year 3 10
2 21-30 20 65
3 31-40 6 19
4 Above 40 2 6
5 Total 31 100
Source ; Field survey,2019
26
Above Table 4.4 shows that respondents of age below 20 years were 10%. Similarly,
age between 21-30 were 65%, age between 31-40 were 19% and the age above 40
were 6%. This shows that the age between 21-30 were interested in the field of the
media.
4.3.2 Caste and Ethnic Distribution

Among the several factors that influence the social life of an individual, caste is also
one of the main factors that determine the status of woman. Celebration of the
festivals, Norms and Values of the society, decision making power of women etc. are
some of the elements that are affected by the caste. Hence this study has attempted to
find out the caste of the sampled woman which is highlighted by the below given
Table 4.5 Distribution of the Respondent by Cast
S.No Cast No. of Respondent Percentage
1 Brahmin/Chhetri 23 74
2 Janajati 5 16
3 Dalit 3 10
4 Total 31 100
Source: Field Survey,2019

The above table shows that in the survey area most of the respondent were Brahmin
Chhetri i.e. 74% and Janajati i.e. 16% and Dalit 10% and Madesi 0% cast involve in
the field of media. Most of the participant were Brahmin and chhetri this data shows
that participant of other cast group were very less. There may be need of change the
conception about women’s capability in other cast group.
4.3.3 Marital Status of Respondent

The establishment of legitimate relationship as husband and wife between man and
women is called marriage. Respondent of the present study were married, unmarried
and also single or widow women The information of marital status of the respondent
are given below in the table
27
Table 4.6 Distribution of Respondent by Marital Status
S.No Status No. of the Respondent Percentage
1 Married 17 55
2 Unmarried 14 45
3 Total 31 100

Table 4.6 shows that among the respondent 55% were married, 45% were unmarried.
This data shows majority of the participant were married.
4.3.4 Education
Education is one of the major degree to the measure the social status of any
community. Education is an important factor that determines the person’s attitude,
behavior and practice which help to social and economic development. The education
level of the respondents of the study are given in the following table
Table 4.7 Distribution of the Respondent by Educational Status

S.No Education No. of Respondent Percentage
1 Secondary level 2 6
2 Higher Secondary level 4 13
3 Bachelor 16 52
4 Master’s 9 29
5 Total 31 100
Among the sampled 31 respondent 6% were passed Secondary level,13% were

passed Higher Secondary Level, 52% were passed Bachelor and 29% were passed
Master’s level. This data shows that the women engaged in the communication sector
are educated.
28
CHAPTER- FIVE
Data Presentation and Analysis
5.1 Status of the Respondents

This chapter present the status of the respondents in radio networks.
5.1.1 Bit or Sector of the Respondents

In order to conduct a well-run office, the work should be done with well managed
and different employees are employed for different types of work. In the following
table shows the bit or sector of the respondents
Table 5.1 Distribution of Respondent by Bit/Sector of the Work

S.No Status No. of Respondent Percentage
1 Administration 8 26
2 Technician 2 6
3 Reporter 5 16
4 Program presenter 16 52
5 Total 31 100
The above table shows that 26% of respondent were worked in the field of
administration, 6% were worked as technician. 16% were worked as reporter and 52%
were program presenter. This data shows the rate of program presenter is high.
29
5.1.2 Type of the Program Respondents Present Produce or Reporting
In this part the total no. of our universe is 21 because out of 31 respondents 8 were
worked in administration and 2 were technician. The following table shows that
program respondent present produce or reporting.
Table 5.2Distribution of Respondents by Type of the Program Present Produce

or Reporting
S.No Type No. of Respondent Percentage

1 News Basis 15 71
2 Other 6 29
3 Total 21 100
The above table shows that most of the respondent present produce or reporting news
basis program and only 29%of respondent present produce or report other type of
program. This data shows that most of the respondent interested in news basis
program.
5.1.3 Status of Decision Making Power

Decision making power has been identified as a measuring of social impact in a
society. Decisions are made at different levels in an organization’s hierarchy:
Strategic decisions are long-term in their impact. They affect and shape the direction
of the whole work. Status of the respondent decision making power is given in the
table
Table 5.3 Distribution of the Respondents by Status Decision Making Power

S.No
Status No. of Respondent Percentage
1
Yes 4 13
2
No 27 87
3
Total 31 100
30
The above table shows that out of the total respondent 13% of respondent were in the
level of decision making power and 87% were not in the level of decision making
level. This data shows that lack of women participation in the decision making level
in their office.
5.1.4 Promotion of the Respondent

The advancement of an employee from one job position to another job position that
has a higher salary range, a higher level job title, and, often, more and higher level job
responsibilities in an organization, is called a promotion. Sometimes a promotion
results in an employee taking on responsibility for managing or overseeing the
work of other employees. Decision-making authority tends to rise with a promotion as
well. The status of the respondents promotion is given below in the table
Table 5.4 Distribution of the Respondent by their Promotion

S.No
1 Yes 6 19
2
NO 25 81
3 Total 31 100
The above table shows that 19% of the respondents were get their promotion in time
and 81% of the respondents were don’t get promotion in time. This data shows that
the data of the promotion rate is not in satisfied level.
5.1.5 Salary
Salary is a fixed amount of money or compensation paid to an employee by an
employer in return for work performed. Salary is commonly paid in fixed intervals,
for example, monthly payments of one-twelfth of the annual salary. Salary is typically
determined by comparing market pay rates for people performing similar work in
similar industries in the same region. Salary is also determined by leveling the pay
rates and salary ranges established by an individual employer. Salary is also affected
by the number of people available to perform the specific job in the employer's
31
employment locale. Salaries are fixed cost in nature. The status of respondents if they
get proper salary or not is given below in the table
Table 5.5 Distribution of the Respondents by Salary

S.No
1
Yes 17 55
2
No 14 45
3
Total 31 100
The above table shows that among the all respondent 55% were get proper salary and
45% were not satisfied with their salary level. This shows that most of the respondent
were satisfied with the salary level.
5.1.6 Change the Office

The majority of people don't want to change office but they change because of their
bosses or because their work is either too challenging or not challenging enough. Or
even because they aren't paid enough. Respondent status of change the office is
given below in table
Table 5.6 Distribution of the Respondents by Change the Office

1 Yes 11 35
2 No 20 65
3 Total 31 100
The above table shows that 35% of the respondent had change their office before due
to their unsatisfaction and 65% of the respondent doesn’t change their office. This
data shows most of the respondent were not change their office yet.
32
5.1.7 Chance of Change the Profession in Future
When someone starts his/her profession he/she doesn’t want to change their
profession but some time they change their profession due to different type of reasons
like they aren’t paid enough, they aren’t satisfied with their profession etc. The given
table shows the no. of the respondents changing status of profession.
Table 5.7 Distribution of the Respondent by Change the Profession in Future

1 Yes 4 13
2 No 23 74
3 Don’t Know 4 13
4 Total 31 100

Among the 31 respondent 13% answered they will be change their profession in
future. 74% answered they were not change their profession and 13% said that they
don’t know either they change or not. Maximum respondents said they will not
change their profession in future and equal number of the respondents says they will
change their profession and they don’t know either they will change or not their
profession.
5.1.8 Chance to Get Capacity Building Training

Capacity building or capacity development is the process by which individuals and
organizations obtain, improve, and retain the skills, knowledge, tools, equipment and
other resources needed to do their jobs competently or to a greater capacity (larger
scale, larger audience, larger impact, etc). Capacity building and capacity
development are often used interchangeably. No. of the respondent get the chance of
capacity building training is given below in the table
33
Table 5.8 Distribution of the Respondent by Chance to Get Capacity Building
Training
1 Yes 17 55
2 No 14 45
3 Total 31 100
The above table shows that 55% of the respondents were get chance to participate in
capacity building training and 45% were unable to get the chance to participate such
type of capacity building training. This data shows the maximum respondents get
chance to get participant in capacity building training.
5.1.9 Gender Discrimination in Chance to Get Capacity Building Training

Gender discrimination involves treating employees or prospective employees
differently due to their gender, gender identity, or sexual orientation. The different
treatment may occur in the context of hiring, firing, promotion, pay, benefits, or job
classifications. This form of discrimination is prohibited under federal, state, and local
laws. The following table shows status of the gender discrimination in chance to get
capacity building training.
Table 5.9 Distribution of the Respondents by Gender Discrimination in Getting

Capacity Building Training
S.No Status No. of respondent Percentage
1 Yes 4 13
2 No 27 87
3 Total 31 100
The above table shows that 13% of the respondent answered that there were gender
discrimination in giving chance to participant in the capacity building training and
87% answered that there were not gender discrimination. Majority of the respondents
says that they don’t feel gender discrimination in chance to get participant in capacity
34
building training and only few replay that they feel gender discrimination in chance to
get capacity building training.
5.1.10 Problem Faced due to Gender

Now a days number of the working women is increased day by day. But it is not easy
for women they face different types of problem because of their gender. Problem
faced by women due to their gender is given below in table
Table 5.10 Distribution of the Respondent Problem Face by due to Gender

S.No
Status No. of respondent Percentage
1
Yes 10 32
2
No 21 68
3
Total 31 100
The above table shows that 32% of the respondents were faced the problem due to
their gender in their work and 68% of the respondent says they don’t have any
problem due to their gender. Most of the respondent says that they don’t face any
problem in their work due to their gender and some respondents says that they face
problem in their work due to their gender.
5.1.11 Gender Discrimination in Work Place

Sex or gender discrimination in employment involves treating someone unfavorably
because of the person’s sex, whether they are applying for a job or are a current
employee. Although women have made clear they have the ability to perform with the
same skill and success in every endeavor engaged in by men, the issue of sex
35
discrimination still holds many back. Sex discrimination, although predominantly an
issue for women, can sometimes be directed towards men as well. The following table
shows the status of gender discrimination in work place.
Table 5.11 Distribution of the Respondent by Work Place Gender Discrimination
1 Yes 3 10
2 No 28 90
3 Total 31 100
The above table shows that 10% of the respondent answered that there were gender
discrimination in their office and 90% answered they don’t face any type of
discrimination in their office. Majority of the respondents says that they don’t feel any
type of gender discrimination in their office and only few were reply that they feel
gender discrimination in their office
5.1.12 Work Shift

Shift work is an employment practice designed to make use of, or provide service
across, all 24 hours of the clock each day of the week . The practice typically sees the
day divided into shifts, set periods of time during which different groups of workers
perform their duties. The term "shift work" includes both long-term night shifts and
work schedules in which employees change or rotate shifts. Problem Face by
respondent due to time shift is given below in the table
Table 5.12 Distribution of the Respondent by Work Shift Problem

S.No
1 Yes 12 39
2 No 19 61
3 Total 31 100
36
The above table shows that 39% of the respondents were faced problem due to time
shift and 61% were not have any problem due to time shift. Majority of the
respondents says that they don’t have any problem due to the time shift.
5.1.13 Gender Discrimination in Giving Responsibility

All the 100% respondents answered that there were not any gender discrimination in
giving the responsibility.
5.1.14 Family Support

Family Support is one of the most important factor for the working women. Status of
the family support of the respondent is given below in the table
Table5.13 Distribution of the Respondent by Family Support

S.No
Status No. of respondent Percentage
1
Yes 29 94
2
NO 2 6
3
Total 31 100
The above table shows that 94% of respondents have family support in their work and
6% of respondents don’t have family support from their family. This data shows that
maximum respondents have support from their family only few answered that they
have not support from the family.
5.1.15 Job Satisfaction

Job satisfaction or employee satisfaction is a measure of workers' contentedness with
their job, whether or not they like the job or individual aspects or facets of jobs, such
as nature of work or supervision. Job satisfaction can be measured in cognitive
(evaluative), affective (or emotional), and behavioral components. Researchers have
also noted that job satisfaction measures vary in the extent to which they measure
37
feelings about the job (affective job satisfaction). or cognitions about the job
(cognitive job satisfaction). Job Satisfaction status of the respondent is given below in
the table
Table 5.14 Distribution of the Respondent by Job Satisfaction

1
Yes 24 77
2
No 7 23
3
Total 31 100
The above table shows that out of the 31 respondents 77% of respondents satisfied
with their profession and only 23% of respondents were not satisfied with their
profession. This data shows that most of the respondents satisfied with their
profession.
5.1.16 Study or Training of the Journalism

Study of the specific subject give board idea about that field. It make easy to the
person to do their work. Given table shows either respondents study or trained in
journalism
Table 5.15 Distribution of Respondent by Academic Qualification of the

Journalism
S.No
1 Yes 25 81
2 No 6 19
3 Total 31 100
38
The above table shows that out of the31 respondents 81% have academic qualification
about journalism and 19% of respondent haven’t academic qualification about
journalism. This data shows that most of the respondents have academic qualification
about related field.
5.1.17 Lack of the Women in Journalism

Status of women in the field of journalism is less than other field given table shows
why no. of women is lack in the field of journalism. This is the only view of the
respondents of this study. The following table shows the view of the respondents lack
of the women in the field of journalism.
Table 5.16 Distribution of the Respondent by Lack of the Women in the Field of
the Journalism
S.no
1
Lack of oppurtionise 13 42
2
Lack of interest 10 32
3
social cause 8 26
4
Total 31 100
Source; Field Survey,2019 F,

42% of the respondents were answered there may be lack of the oppurtionise, 32% of
the respondents answered there may be lack of interest and 26% of the respondents
answered there may be social cause.
39
CHAPTER- Six
SUMMERY CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
6.1 Summery
This study is related with the status of the women in radio networks of Kathmandu
valley. It describes the present condition of women in study area. The main objective
of this research is to find out the workers of radio networks and especially the
women's participation and their role in the radio networks. This is a descriptive and
analytical study. Data of this study basically are qualitative and quantitative in nature.
This study is mainly based on primary and secondary data. Primary data is collected
from the observation, questionnaire and key informant’s interview. The collected data
from the field are tabulated and analyzed by number and percentage.
This study was concentrated on the women of radio networks. The purpose of this
study is to provide information on status of the women of radio networks and
analyzed the problem faced by them.
• Out of the 31 respondents age below 20 years were 10 percent. Similarly, age
between 21-30 were 65 percent, age between 31-40 were 19 percent and the
age above 40 were 6 percent.
• Out of the 31 respondent Bhramin/chhetri were 74 percent, 16 percent were

janajati, and 10 percent were Dalit.
• In the study area 55 percent of respondents were married and 45 percent of

respondents were unmarried.
• Among the respondents 6 percent of respondents were passed secondary level,

13 percent of respondents passed higher secondary level. Similarly, 52 percent
of respondents were passed Bachelor level and 29 percent of the respondents
passed Master’s level.
40
• Out of the 31 respondents 26 percent of the respondents were worked in
administration, 6 percent of respondent were technician. Likewise 16 percent
of respondents were reporter and 52 percent of the respondents were program
presenter.
• Out of the 31 respondents 8 were worked in administration and 2 were

technician so for this question 21 were universe for us. Out of the 21
respondents 71 percent of respondents present/ produce/ reporting news basis
program and 29 percent of respondents present/ produce/ reporting other type
of program.
• Out of the total respondents 13 percent of respondents were is in decision

making level and 87 percent of the respondents were not in the decision
making level.
• 19 percent of the respondents says that they get promotion in time and 81
percent of the respondents don’t get their promotion in time.
• Among the respondents 55 percent of the respondents says they get proper
salary and 45 percent says they don’t get proper salary.
• Out of the 31 percent of the respondents 35 percent of the respondents

changed the media house before and 65 percent of the respondents do not
change media house yet.
• 13 percent of the respondents says that they may be change their profession in
future, 74 percent of the respondents says they don’t think that they change the
profession in future and 13 percent of the respondents says they don’t know
either they change or not the profession.
• Out of the 31 respondents 55 percent of the respondents were get the chance to
participate in capacity building training and 45 percent of the respondents
were not get chance to participate in capacity building training.
41
• 13 percent of the respondents says that there are gender discrimination in the
chance to get capacity building training and 87 percent of the respondents says
there is not any gender discrimination in chance to get capacity building
training.
• Among the all respondents 32 percent of the respondents says that they face in
their work due to their gender and 68 percent of the respondents says that they
have not face any problem due to their gender.
• Out of the 31 respondent 10 percent of the respondents there is gender

discrimination in their office and 90 percent of the respondents says there is no
any gender discrimination in there office.
• Among the respondents 10 percent of respondents says they faced problem

due to time shift and 90 percent of the respondents says they don’t have any
problem faced due to time shift.
• Out of the 31 respondents all of them said that they don’t feel any gender
discrimination in giving responsibility in there office.
• 94 percent of the respondent said that they have full family support and 6
percent of the respondent said they haven’t family support.
• Out of all respondent 77 percent of the respondent satisfied with their job and
23 percent of the respondents are not satisfied with their job.
• 81 percent of the respondents have academic qualification on journalism and
19 percent of respondents haven’t qualification on journalism.
• Out of the 31 respondent 58 percent said they think their future is secure in
this field, 29 percent said their future is not secure in this field and 13 percent
said they don’t know either their future is secure or not in this field.
42
• 42 percent of respondent think that lack of opportunity is the reason for the
less participant of women in the field of media, 32 percent think that lack of
the interest is the main cause and 26 percent of the respondent think that due
to social cause is the main reason.
6.2 Conclusion
This study is based on the status of the women of the radio networks. Participation of
women in the field of media is very less
• My research data show that women’s participation in mass media sector of
Nepal is increasing in recent years. Even though it does not satisfy while
matching with the population proportion, there has been progress compared to
the past.
• The insights gained through the survey, interviews and case studies brought
together in this research study suggest that the media industry in Nepal still
has a long way to go before it ensures equality among men and women
journalists.
• Although more women are joining the media workforce, the working
environment within media organisations does not seem congenial enough to
enable them to grow and progress easily. Women are not taken as seriously as
their male colleagues and they feel their contributions are not as valued.
Additionally, they are subjected to discrimination and harassment from within
as well as outside their organisations.
• However, there is now more awareness now about gender discrimination and
ways to eradicate it. People are beginning to understand the importance of
gender policies to guide organisations and are beginning to show signs of
implementing them seriously.
• There is also some recognition of the fact that workplaces need to be more
conducive to women’s career advancement so that there are more women in
43
decision-making positions. Having a higher proportion of women in executive
positions is expected to bridge the gender divide.
• Along with a change in policies, there must be a change in attitudes, too There
is need for a shift from a conservative society to a more open-minded, gender-
friendly society. Men and women deserve equal treatment and a favourable
environment where their professional growth is related to their competencies
and not their gender.
• Human resources departments in media organisations need to formulate and

implement gender-friendly policies and institute mechanisms to deal with
sexual harassment cases or incidents of gender bias.
• It is true that gender inequality is a national problem and not just in the media
industry. Women need to feel more empowered to speak out when they face
injustice instead of remaining silent. Similarly, men need to be motivated to
fight against injustice on behalf of women. It is only when men are equally
involved in the fight for women’s rights that change will finally be seen.
6.3 Recommendation
The following recommendations can be prepared on the basis of the study for the further
growth and development of the status of the women in radio networks.
• In the case of the lack of women participation in the field of mass media
government should play the role to increase the rate of women in mass media.
• To develop the women’s biological development in the field of mass media it

seems to apply the different type of policy and rule.
• Salary should be provide which is appointed by the government salary rate
44
• There is need of the training of professional development , capability
development and leadership for the women which develop there ability and
leadershipness.
• By seeing the latest statistic women’s presence in the decision making level
seem to be low in rate. It seems to be developed.
• Women should also initiate to be in decision making level.
• While working in the field of communication world many challenges and

difficulties should be come, women should raise their voice by themselves to
reduce such type of problem.
• The policy should be taken to the improve the size of the women in the field of
media.
• There is need to offer some convenience in the time of pregnancy and need of
maternity leave with paid allowance with the time period of six month.
• Media house should be gender violence disposed area.
• Female friendship environment should be made in the office, while it is

possible to maintain hygiene during the menstruation, and women should have
a separate toilet room
45
Questionnaire
1 General Information
Name:
Age Group
a) Below 20 Years
b) 21-30 Years
c) 31- 40 Years
d) Above 40
Ethnic Group
a) Bhramin/Chhetri
b) Janajati
c) Dalit
d) Madeshi
e) Other
Marital Status
a) Married
b) Unmarried
c) Single
Education
a) Secondary Level
b) Higher Secondary Level
c) Bachelor Level
d) Master’s Level
2) When did you Started this job?
3) In which post you are working in nowadays?
4) In which Bit/Sector you are working?
a) Administration
b) Technician
c) Reporting
d) Program Presenter
5) What Type of program you present/produce/reporting?
a) News Basis
b) Other
6) Are you in decision making level in your office?
a) Yes
b) No
7) Is your Promotion in time?
a) Yes
b) No
8) Did you get proper Salary?
a) Yes
b) No
9) Did you Change any media house before?
a) Yes
b) No
c) If yes why……..
10) Did you think that you will Change your Profession in future?
a) Yes
b) No
c) If yes why….
11) Did you get chance for capacity building training from your office?
a) Yes
b) No
12) Did you feel any gender discrimination in chance to get capacity building
training?
a) Yes
b) No
13) Did you feel any type of problem in your work due to your gender?
a) Yes
b) No
c) If yes what type…..
14) If there is any type of gender discrimination in your office?
a) Yes
b) No
15) Do you have any problem Due to work shift?
a) Yes
b) No
16) Did you feel any gender discrimination in giving responsibility in your office?
a) Yes
b) No
17) Do you have full support from your family?
a) Yes
b) No
18) Are you satisfied with your work?
a) Yes
b) No
19) Do you have academic qualification of journalism?
a) Yes
b) No
20) Have you ever seen your goodness in this profession?
a) Yes
b) No
c) Don’t Know
21) What do you think the reason for the presence of women in the journalism
field is less?
a) Lack of the oppurtionise

b) Lack of interest
c) Social Cause
22) If you want to say any thing

REFERENCES
Baniya, A. (2014); Community Radio for Development: A Case Study of Radio

Lumbini in Nepal; University of Tampere
Banjade, A. (2007); Community Radio in Nepal: A Case Study of Community

Radio Madanpokhara; The Scripps College of Communication of Ohio
University
Bhusal, Ghanashyam,2001; Behavioural change of the people after the

establishment of Radio Lumbini
IFJ,(2015); Media and Gender in Nepal: Part of the IFJ Media and Gender in
Aisia Pacific Project
Mainali, R. (2003); Asia Pasific Report; Eighth World Conference of

Community Radio Broadcasters, Kathmandu, Nepal, February 21-27, 2003
Maung,N.A.& Ghimire,D.(1997); Radio ownership and listening in Nepal: A

national study. kathmandu: Radio Nepal
Ramavash Media Study; Radio Nepal and its History: For Mass
Communication Materials
Rijal, Nirmal Parsad.(2014); Media development in Nepal

since1990:challenges and centralrole of regulation and reform; School of
Media and communication Royal Melbourn Institute of Technology
University Melbourne, Australia
Sapkota, p. (2013); Participation of Indigenous People in Mass Media: A Case
Study of F.M. Radios in Kavrepalanchowk, Nepal; University of Tromoso
Norway
Wells, A and Hakanen. A.E ( Mass Media and Society, 1997). Greenwood
Publishing group, United States

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My Final Thesis Achyuta

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Status of the Women in Mass Media

(A Sociological Study of Radio Networks of Kathmandu Valley)

Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences,

Department of Sociology, Patan Multiple Campus, TU

For Partial Fulfillment of the Requirement of

Master’s Degree of Arts in Sociology

Exam Roll no.: 220634

Campus Roll No. : 18/06

Radio Networks of Kathmandu by Ms. Achyuta Mahat under my supervision and

guidance. I recommend this thesis work to be accepted as a partial fulfillment for

Master of Arts in Social Science, Department of Sociology, Patan Multiple Campus.

evaluated and accepted as a requirement of partial requirement of the Master

I would like to express my profound gratitude to my respected supervisor Dr. Pradip

BBC : British Broadcasting Corporation

B.S. : Bikram Sambat

FNJ : Fedration of Nepali Journalist

IBM : International Business Machine

INGO : International Non-Governmental Organization

NGO : Non-Governmental Organization

NEFJ : The Nepal Forum of Environment Journalist

PCN : Press Council Nepal

PSA : Public Service Announcement

UNN : Ujyalo Ninety Network

LIST OF THE TABLE…………………………………………………viii

Table 4.2 Ratio Between Male Female Staff in Thaha Sanchar 25

Table 4.4 Distribution of the Respondent by Age Group 26

Table 4.5 Distribution of the Respondent by Cast 27

Table 4.6 Distribution of Respondent by Marital Status 28

Table 4.7 Distribution of the Respondent by Educational Status 28

Table 5.1 Distribution of Respondent by Bit/Sector of the Work 29

Table 5.2Distribution of Respondents by Type of the Program Present Produce or

Table 5.3 Distribution of the Respondents by Status Decision Making Power 30

Table 5.4 Distribution of the Respondent by their Promotion 31

Table 5.5 Distribution of the Respondents by Salary 32

Table 5.6 Distribution of the Respondents by Change the Office 32

Table 5.7 Distribution of the Respondent by Change the Profession in Future 33

Table 5.9 Distribution of the Respondents by Gender Discrimination in Getting

Capacity Building Training 34

Table 5.10 Distribution of the Respondent Problem Face by due to Gender 35

Table 5.11 Distribution of the Respondent by Work place Gender Discrimination 36

Table 5.12 Distribution of the Respondent by Work Shift Problem 36

Table5.13 Distribution of the Respondent by Family Support 37

Table 5.14 Distribution of the Respondent by Job Satisfaction 38

Table 5.15 Distribution of Respondent by Academic Qualification of the Journalism 38

1.1 Background of the Study

1.2 Statement of the problem

According to International Federation of Journalists survey (2015) on media and

1.3 Objective of the Study

1.4 Significance of the Study

1.5 Organization of the study

2.1 History of Nepali Mass Media

1) Pre- Gorkhapatra Period ( Before 1901 A.D)

3) 1951-1961 (Democracy period)

4) 1961-1990 ( Panchayat period)

5) 1990 to onwards (After the restoration of democracy)

3) 1951 – 1961 (Democracy Period)

4) 1961 – 1990 ( Panchayat Period)

In the other hand, Ministry of Information and communication was established in

5) 1990 to Onwards (After the Restoration of Democracy)

2.2 History of Radio in Nepal

Radio broadcasting is the cheapest and quickest means of mass communications in

Nepal officially changed from a monarchical non-party system to a parliamentary

2.3 Media Development in Nepal