Holding The Line

The remarkable work and reach of the ARMY WOMEN'S WELFARE ASSOCIATION (AWWA) shows how it is the silent strength behind the country's brave soldiers

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As a child, Celina* had an unexplained fear of numbers. The daughter of an Army soldier, she was constantly ridiculed with comments such as, “Tera kuch nahi ho sakta (There is no hope for you).” Her childhood was a constant battle with what many claim a monster: Maths. It was only after watching the film Taare Zameen Par that she thought of finding out whether she too had a learning difficulty, and it turned out she did – dyscalculia, a specific issue related to numbers. At a time when she faced jibes from everyone around, there were a few who listened to her. The volunteers of the Army Women's Welfare Association (AWWA) were the ones who did. “No one listened when I needed help the most. AWWA did. And now I help others listen to their children,” she shares, her voice a blend of courage and conviction.

As the saying goes, behind every brave soldier is also a resilient woman, a caring family, and a supportive community. Quietly yet effectively weaving this invisible yet powerful support network is the AWWA, an organisation that shines as a beacon of compassion, hope, and empowerment. The NGO focuses on the welfare of families of Indian Army personnel, provides support to soldiers’ families, and promotes their wellbeing through various initiatives. Recognised with the prestigious Mahatma Award for Social Good and Impact in October 2024, AWWA is more than just an NGO, it is a support system.

It is AWWA’s educational outreach programme that connects someone such as Celina to the AWWA volunteers and specialists who guided her to her path. Despite the struggles, she rose to build a successful corporate career and now dedicates her time to spreading awareness about the power of listening and supporting children with learning disabilities.

A Beacon Of Hope