INTEGRATING TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE AND MODERN GOVERNANCE APPROACHES IN DISASTER RISK MANAGEMENT: INSIGHTS FROM NEPALS MOUNTAIN AND TERAI REGIONS

This research explores how to mix traditional knowledge with present-day governance methods to strengthen disaster response systems in Nepals highlands and Terai plains.For many generations local communities have proven that their traditional disaster response methods work effectively. The official governance structure accepts limited participation by traditional knowledge methods.We use both qualitative interview data and focus groups with quantitative studies to reveal the studys findings. People in the Mountain region depend more on traditional knowledge and show better community safety awareness but their preparedness measures at 85% perform equally well. By contrast, the Terai region demonstrates 50% success in applying traditional knowledge into official government systems. Although Terai area officials maintain 75% effective disaster preparation programs they have room for improvement because community outreach and implementation fall short. The research shows that weak organizations create problems plus official systems deny traditional methods while training programs are too basic. Our findings suggest creating stronger decentralized leadership teams and training programs plus boosting public education plus building legal guidelines to use traditional knowledge. When Nepal links indigenous solutions to official disaster prevention systems it will create better and wider protection methods against disasters. Strategic cooperation between eco-cultural heritage preservation and scientific disaster response will help disaster-prone areas everywhere. When official organizations work together with local wisdom, they help create stronger disaster readiness while protecting national heritage and building toward long-term growth.