The crew of the Indian Army Sailing Vessel (IASV) Triveni called on President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan following the successful completion of the historic Tri-Service All-Women Circumnavigation Sailing Expedition, Samudra Pradakshina. The meeting marked national recognition of one of the most remarkable maritime achievements by the Indian Armed Forces, showcasing the courage, resilience and professionalism of women officers from the Army, Navy and Air Force.
During the interaction, President Murmu congratulated the nine-member all-women crew for successfully completing the unprecedented global sailing expedition, which covered more than 25,000 nautical miles across some of the world’s most demanding maritime routes. She commended the officers for their unwavering determination, exceptional teamwork and professional excellence in overcoming the numerous challenges posed by the voyage.
The President noted that the expedition stands as a shining example of India’s growing capabilities in adventure, leadership and military professionalism. She remarked that the crew’s accomplishment would inspire young Indians, particularly women, to dream big, embrace challenges and dedicate themselves to serving the nation with commitment and excellence.
The Samudra Pradakshina expedition was the first-ever Tri-Service all-women circumnavigation mission undertaken by the Indian Armed Forces. The voyage witnessed the crew navigating through four oceans and successfully rounding three of the world’s most formidable maritime landmarks—the Cape of Leeuwin in Australia, Cape Horn in South America and the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa. These waters are renowned for unpredictable weather, towering waves, powerful currents and extreme sailing conditions, making the successful completion of the expedition a significant feat of seamanship and endurance.
Throughout the mission, the crew demonstrated exceptional navigation skills, operational discipline and resilience while enduring prolonged isolation, harsh climatic conditions and continuous exposure to the challenges of blue-water sailing. Their achievement reflects not only individual courage but also the seamless cooperation and interoperability among the Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force, reinforcing the spirit of Tri-Service jointness.
The expedition also highlighted the increasing role of women in the Indian Armed Forces, showcasing their ability to undertake complex operational and adventure missions traditionally considered among the most demanding in the military. By successfully completing the circumnavigation, the officers have set a new benchmark for leadership, teamwork and perseverance while strengthening India’s presence in global maritime adventure.
Samudra Pradakshina has become a symbol of the Armed Forces’ commitment to excellence, gender inclusion and operational capability. Beyond its maritime significance, the expedition demonstrated the values of discipline, courage, self-reliance and collective leadership that define military service.
The President’s interaction with the crew at Rashtrapati Bhavan served as a fitting tribute to their historic accomplishment. The recognition not only honoured the remarkable journey of the IASV Triveni crew but also reaffirmed the nation’s appreciation for the dedication and professionalism of the women officers who carried the Indian Tricolour across the world’s oceans.
The successful completion of Samudra Pradakshina will remain a landmark chapter in the history of the Indian Armed Forces, inspiring future generations of officers and young Indians to pursue excellence, break barriers and serve the nation with courage, determination and unwavering commitment.
