Sahyogi

An initiative addressing gender-based violence (GBV), particularly domestic violence (DV), in Bihar's villages and slums. AAN aims to reduce violence against women/girls by educating them and the community on identifying and responding to GBV/DV, establishing a cadre base within communities to address GBV/DV, providing counselling and legal aid support to survivors, and connecting them with government services for justice. Sahyogi has recognized the need for police personnel to be informed about the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence (PWDV) Act to ensure sensitivity in handling DV cases, leading to the initiation of orientation programs for law enforcement officials.

The SOUL program is currently underway in the Manihari block of Katihar district, with a specific focus on uplifting the Musahar community, one of the most marginalized groups. Through the SOUL program, efforts are concentrated on establishing and reinforcing Village Development Associations and facilitating their structured capacity building. This initiative tackles poverty by employing an integrated approach to poverty reduction, which is driven and managed by the community. The overarching goal is to enhance the livelihoods of families within the targeted communities, thereby reducing their susceptibility to vulnerabilities and bolstering food security.