Research

Research & Publications

Explore my research and publications on health economics, public policy, governance, and evidence-based decision-making to strengthen Nepal's public institutions and health systems.

Research Focus

Key Research Areas

Conference Poster

Journal Article

Research Paper

Publications

Journal Articles & Research Papers

Journal Article · Journal of Agrarian Change · 2025

Unpacking youth engagement in agriculture: Land, labour mobility and youth livelihoods in rural Nepal

Sunam, R., Sugden, F., Kharel, A., Sunuwar, T. R., & Ito, T.

Journal Article · Journal of Agrarian Change · 2025

Journal Article

This research examines youth engagement in agriculture in rural Nepal by exploring the relationship between land, labour mobility, migration, and livelihood choices. Based on ethnographic research, the study highlights how economic status, social structures, and inequalities shape young people's aspirations to leave or remain in agriculture, while showing the possibility of future re-engagement in farming.

View on Journal Website DOI: 10.1111/joac.12611
Research Article · Asia Pacific Viewpoint · 2026

The Covid-19 Pandemic and Pre-Existing Migration Infrastructures: Differentiated Impacts on Nepali Migrants in Japan

Sunam, R., Joshi, D. P. R., Dhungana, I., & Sunuwar, T. R.

Asia Pacific Viewpoint

Research Paper

The article examines how the COVID-19 pandemic affected different groups of Nepali migrants in Japan, including students, cooks, and migrant entrepreneurs. It highlights how pre-existing migration infrastructures, visa systems, employment conditions, and social networks shaped unequal economic, social, and psychological impacts during the pandemic.

View on Journal Website DOI: 10.1111/apv.70032
Conference Poster · ISPOR 2025 · Montréal, Canada

Conference Poster: Improving the Healthcare System Through Health Technology Assessment: A Case Study of Nepal

Sunuwar, T. R.

International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR)

Conference Poster

This conference poster presents research on the role of Health Technology Assessment (HTA) in strengthening Nepal’s healthcare system through evidence-based decision-making, efficient resource allocation, and improved health policy planning. The study highlights opportunities and challenges for implementing HTA to support Universal Health Coverage in Nepal.

View on Journal Website DOI: ISPOR 2025 Poster · HPR166
Master's Research Paper · University of Tokyo · 2020

Improving the Healthcare System through Health Technology Assessment: A Case Study of Nepal

Sunuwar, T. R.

Graduate School of Public Policy (GraSPP), The University of Tokyo

Research Paper

Improving the Healthcare System through Health Technology Assessment: A Case Study of Nepal examines the application of Health Technology Assessment (HTA) as a tool for improving healthcare decision-making in Nepal. The study highlights how evidence-based evaluation of health technologies can support policy reform, optimize healthcare resources, and contribute toward stronger and more sustainable health systems. The research contributes to discussions on health economics, health policy, and universal health coverage in Nepal.

View on Journal Website DOI: University of Tokyo Research Paper · 2020
Public Writing

Opinion Articles & Media Publications

Graduate School of Public Policy (GraSPP), The University of Tokyo · January 26, 2023

Experiencing the World – Serving My Nation: A GraSPP Story from Nepal

This alumni feature highlights Tula Raj Sunuwar’s journey from Nepal’s public administration sector to the Graduate School of Public Policy (GraSPP), The University of Tokyo. The article shares his experiences in international policy education, global learning, and his commitment to applying knowledge gained abroad to strengthen governance and public service in Nepal.

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Graduate School of Public Policy (GraSPP), The University of Tokyo · January 26, 2023

Experiencing the World – Serving My Nation: A GraSPP Story from Nepal

An alumni feature reflecting on Tula Raj Sunuwar's journey from Nepal's public service to GraSPP, The University of Tokyo, and his commitment to advancing evidence-based governance in Nepal.

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eKantipur · May 25, 2020

कोरोना-संकटमा विपन्नमुखी राहत

A co-authored opinion article advocating equitable relief measures and inclusive public policy responses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Onlinekhabar · July 6, 2022

शिन्जो आबे हत्या प्रकरणः के विशिष्ट व्यक्ति सुरक्षित छन् ?

An opinion article examining the security of high-profile public figures through the lens of Shinzo Abe's assassination.

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Academic Networks

Research Collaborations & Professional Networks

Completed a Master of Public Policy as a World Bank Scholar, with research focused on Health Technology Assessment (HTA), health policy, and evidence-based public policy.

Director of the ISPOR Nepal Regional Chapter, promoting Health Economics and Outcomes Research (HEOR), Health Technology Assessment (HTA), and evidence-based healthcare decision-making in Nepal.

Active member of ISPOR, contributing to international collaboration and knowledge exchange in health economics and outcomes research.

Co-authored international research on youth livelihoods, labour mobility, and rural development in Nepal with researchers from leading academic institutions.

Served as the Government of Nepal focal person for World Bank-supported initiatives, including the Multi-Sector Nutrition Plan (MSNP) and the Sunaula Hazar Din (Golden 1,000 Days) programme.