Landownership in Nepal

Landownership in Nepal explores the intricate interplay between agrarian institutions and the socio-political landscape of Nepal, aiming to illuminate the historical evolution of land tenure systems and their implications for economic development. This book underscores the importance of understanding Nepal’s landownership framework, not only for crafting effective economic policies but also for appreciating its influence on societal structures. With a focus on Raikar land tenure—Nepal’s traditional system of state ownership—the study delves into the transformation of land grants, communal ownership, and taxation practices, as well as labor obligations tied to land tenure. By tracing these developments from historical origins to the reforms initiated after the fall of the Rana government in 1951, the book contextualizes the complex landlord-tenant dynamics and the challenges of transitioning to private ownership.

Mahesh C. Regmi’s work methodically unpacks the evolution of Nepal's agrarian systems through detailed chapters on various forms of tenure, such as Birta, Guthi, and Jagir, and their socio-economic ramifications. The book culminates in an analysis of land reform measures under the Panchayat system, offering insights into the broader trends in landownership and their alignment with national development goals. Drawing on the author’s extensive research from his earlier multi-volume study, this book serves as both a foundational reference for scholars and a call to further investigate Nepal’s agrarian history. With a multidisciplinary lens, Landownership in Nepal bridges the domains of economics, history, and social science, making it an essential read for understanding the enduring influence of land on Nepalese society.

This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press’s mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 1976.