Pune, July 23, 2026: Lt Gen Rajesh Pushkar, AVSM, VSM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C), Southern Command, congratulated the nine women officers of the Indian Armed Forces on the successful completion of ‘Samudra Pradakshina’, the nation’s first-ever Tri-Service all-women circumnavigation sailing expedition aboard IASV Triveni.
The Army Commander interacted with the expedition members and lauded their extraordinary courage, resilience, and unwavering determination that enabled them to accomplish one of the most ambitious maritime expeditions ever undertaken by women officers of the Indian Armed Forces. He commended the team for exemplifying the spirit of Tri-Service Jointness, demonstrating seamless coordination among officers from the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force throughout the historic voyage.
The landmark expedition lasted 314 days and covered nearly 25,500 nautical miles, traversing four oceans under a wide range of challenging maritime and weather conditions. The successful circumnavigation stands as a significant milestone in India’s military history, highlighting the growing role of women in undertaking demanding operational and adventure missions while showcasing their professional excellence on the global stage.
During the interaction, Lt Gen Rajesh Pushkar praised the officers for displaying exceptional endurance, leadership, teamwork, and adaptability throughout the expedition. He noted that the successful completion of Samudra Pradakshina reflects the Armed Forces’ commitment to empowering women and providing equal opportunities to excel across every domain, including high-endurance maritime expeditions.
The Army Commander emphasized that the expedition is not only a testament to individual grit but also a shining example of integrated operations among the three Services. The voyage reinforced the importance of interoperability, mutual trust, and joint planning, values that remain central to enhancing India’s defence preparedness and operational effectiveness.
The achievement of the nine women officers has been widely hailed as an inspiration for aspiring military personnel and young women across the country. By successfully circumnavigating the globe aboard IASV Triveni, they have set a new benchmark for adventure, leadership, and perseverance while strengthening the legacy of Nari Shakti within the Indian Armed Forces.
Southern Command stated that the remarkable accomplishment reflects the Indian Armed Forces’ continued focus on fostering gender inclusivity, promoting Tri-Service cooperation, and encouraging personnel to push the boundaries of excellence in challenging operational environments. The historic expedition aboard IASV Triveni will remain a defining chapter in India’s military maritime history and a powerful symbol of courage, determination, and national pride.
