Shillong, Nov 12: The Assam Rifles Wives Welfare Association (ARWWA) Conference 2026 was held at Headquarters Directorate General Assam Rifles, Laitkor, Shillong, on Thursday under the chairmanship of Mrs Vibha Lakhera, President ARWWA.

The conference brought together ARWWA representatives from various formations to deliberate on initiatives aimed at strengthening family welfare, promoting women empowerment, expanding educational opportunities, encouraging skill development and enhancing community well-being.
A major highlight of the conference was the launch of the RUBARU Research Project publication titled “Does Loneliness Evoke Empathy? – A Study of Women Married to Assam Rifles Soldiers.”
The research initiative has been undertaken by Project Empathy in collaboration with ARWWA. Mrs Vibha Lakhera is the Project Head, while Dr Sonika Dagar has served as the Lead Researcher.
The study examines the experiences and emotional well-being of women married to Assam Rifles personnel, with particular focus on loneliness, empathy and the importance of family support.
It seeks to highlight the emotional challenges faced by military families and underline the need for greater understanding, empathy and supportive networks for women whose lives are shaped by the demanding nature of military service.
The launch of the publication marked an important step towards recognising the emotional and social dimensions of family welfare within the Assam Rifles fraternity.
The conference also provided a platform for representatives from different formations to exchange ideas, review ongoing welfare initiatives and discuss measures to improve support systems for families.
Through ARWWA, the Assam Rifles continues to focus on the welfare and empowerment of families, recognising their vital role in sustaining the morale and well-being of personnel serving in challenging conditions.