The “HERO – Male in Action for Gender Equality” project engages boys and men in challenging gender stereotypes, promoting gender equality, and preventing discrimination and violence against women through gender-sensitization, creative activities, and shared household responsibilities.

The HERO – Male in Action for Gender Equality project, implemented by Sahyogi in Bihar in association with IDS, addresses gender inequality and violence against women by working directly with boys and men. Rather than focusing only on supporting women after violence occurs, the initiative seeks to address discriminatory attitudes and behaviors at their roots by encouraging men and boys to rethink traditional ideas of masculinity and develop greater gender sensitivity. The project promotes practical forms of gender equality within families and communities. Boys and men are encouraged to participate in household responsibilities such as cooking, cleaning, childcare, and supporting women with daily chores. Other activities include giving women and girls a day off from household work and recognizing them on special occasions. These everyday actions help demonstrate that household responsibilities should be shared equally between men and women. The initiative also equips young people with skills to navigate contemporary challenges, including information overload through the internet, substance abuse, career decisions, relationships, limited opportunities for creative expression, and informed decision-making. As part of the project, Sahyogi conducted a structured, scenario-based survey involving 150 young men and women to understand gender discrimination, violence, and the social factors contributing to these issues. The findings highlighted the need for greater education and sensitization of men, particularly in communities where domestic issues are rarely discussed openly and men traditionally hold dominant roles. A notable example is Abhishek Kumar, a 14-year-old Class 10 student from Musepur village in Bihta block, Patna district. Before participating in the HERO project, Abhishek believed that household chores such as cooking, sweeping, washing dishes, and clothes were responsibilities meant for women and girls. After participating in Sahyogi's meetings, training sessions, and other activities beginning in 2023, he learned about gender-based discrimination and began helping his mother and sister with household tasks. Through this approach, the project seeks to create lasting changes in attitudes and behavior among boys and men, encouraging more equal relationships within families and communities and contributing to the prevention of gender-based discrimination and violence.