Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday virtually flagged off Samudra Pradakshina, the world’s first all-women Tri-Service circumnavigation sailing expedition, from the iconic Gateway of India in Mumbai.
Describing the mission as a “glowing symbol of Nari Shakti, the jointness of the three Services, Aatmanirbhar Bharat, and India’s global vision,” Singh hailed the expedition not just as a maritime voyage but as a “spiritual sadhana – a journey of discipline and willpower.”
26,000 Nautical Miles Across the Globe
Over the next nine months, ten women officers from the Army, Navy, and Air Force will sail aboard the indigenously built 50-foot Indian Army Sailing Vessel (IASV) Triveni. The team will cover 26,000 nautical miles, taking an easterly route across the Equator twice and navigating three of the world’s great Capes – Leeuwin, Horn, and Good Hope. Their journey will include the treacherous Southern Ocean and the Drake Passage.
The expedition will also make four international port calls at Fremantle (Australia), Lyttelton (New Zealand), Port Stanley (Canada), and Cape Town (South Africa) before returning to Mumbai in May 2026.
Indigenous Strength & Global Diplomacy
Calling Triveni “an embodiment of Aatmanirbhar Bharat,” Singh said every nautical mile sailed reflects India’s confidence in indigenous defence technology. He added that the expedition will also strengthen diplomacy, with the crew showcasing Indian traditions, culture, and Armed Forces’ capabilities during international port visits.
Leadership and Training
The team is led by Lieutenant Colonel Anuja Varudkar, with Squadron Leader Shraddha P Raju as deputy. Other members include Major Karamjeet Kaur, Major Omita Dalvi, Captain Prajakta P Nikam, Captain Dauli Butola, Lieutenant Commander Priyanka Gusain, Wing Commander Vibha Singh, Squadron Leader Aruvi Jayadev, and Squadron Leader Vaishali Bhandari.
The crew has undergone three years of intensive training, including a milestone Mumbai–Seychelles–Mumbai voyage earlier this year, proving their readiness.
Scientific & Strategic Mission
The circumnavigation, compliant with World Sailing Speed Record Council (WSSRC) norms, requires over 21,600 nautical miles under sail alone without shortcuts or powered transit. Alongside navigation, the crew will partner with the National Institute of Oceanography to study microplastics, document marine biodiversity, and raise awareness about ocean health.
A New Benchmark in India’s Maritime Journey
Singh recalled the achievements of Indian circumnavigators, including Captain Dilip Donde and Commander Abhilash Tomy, and the Navika Sagar Parikrama expeditions aboard INSV Tarini. He expressed confidence that Samudra Pradakshina will set a global benchmark, adding “another golden chapter in India’s maritime journey.”
The virtual ceremony was attended by Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, the Chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, and senior officials of the Western Naval Command at the Gateway of India.
“During the expedition, our officers may face numerous challenges, but their flame of determination will pierce through the darkness,” Singh said. “They will return home safely, showing the world that the valour of Indian women is beyond any limits.”
