sahayak

Sahayak is a term widely used in the Indian subcontinent to denote an assistant or helper. In Sanskrit-derived languages such as Hindi, Marathi, and Nepali, it functions as a common noun and, in many contexts, as an occupational title. The root is believed to come from sahāya meaning aid, with sahayaka meaning one who assists, reflecting its core sense as a companion or aide.

In contemporary usage, sahayak appears as an occupational designation in government, education, healthcare, business, and non-governmental organizations. It can refer to an individual who provides administrative, logistical, or technical support to a supervisor or team. The exact duties vary by organization and jurisdiction, and the term may be used alone or as part of longer titles, for example as office sahayak or field sahayak in translated contexts.

Sahayak also appears in everyday language to denote someone who helps others, a helper or assistant in various social contexts. The feminine form sahayika or sahayaki appears in some languages, though usage varies by region and language.

The term is widely understood in India and Nepal and among Urdu- and Hindi-speaking communities, where it may be translated into English as “assistant” or “aide.” It is not tied to a single standardized role; its scope is defined by the issuing organization or context.