Rajnath Singh flags off all-women Tri-Service sailing expedition

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday virtually flagged off ‘Samudra Pradakshina’, the world’s first Tri-service all-women circumnavigation sailing expedition, from the iconic Gateway of India in Mumbai. Addressing the event virtually from South Block, Singh hailed the expedition as a “glowing symbol of Nari Shakti, the jointness of the three Services, Aatmanirbhar Bharat, and India’s global vision.” He described the mission as not just a sailing voyage but also a “spiritual sadhana – a journey of discipline and willpower.” 
Over the next nine months, ten women officers from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force will sail aboard the indigenously-built 50-foot Indian Army Sailing Vessel (IASV) Triveni, covering approximately 26,000 nautical miles. The team will take an easterly route, crossing the Equator twice, navigating the world’s three great Capes – Leeuwin, Horn, and Good Hope – and braving some of the most treacherous waters, including the Southern Ocean and the Drake Passage. The expedition will also feature four international port calls – Fremantle (Australia), Lyttelton (New Zealand), Port Stanley (Canada), and Cape Town (South Africa) – before returning to Mumbai in May 2026. Singh termed IASV Triveni “an embodiment of Aatmanirbhar Bharat” and said the vessel reflects India’s confidence in indigenous defence technology and innovation. “Every nautical mile of IASV Triveni is a step towards strategic autonomy and self-reliance,” he added. Highlighting the diplomatic significance of the voyage, the Defence Minister said the crew’s interactions at international ports would showcase the strength of India’s Armed Forces as well as the nation’s culture, traditions, and values.

The 10-member team is led by Lieutenant Colonel Anuja Varudkar with Squadron Leader Shraddha P Raju as deputy leader. 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 rigorous training, including multiple offshore expeditions and a landmark international voyage from Mumbai to Seychelles and back earlier this year, which validated their readiness for the global challenge. The circumnavigation will comply with World Sailing Speed Record Council (WSSRC) norms, requiring over 21,600 nautical miles under sail alone, without canal shortcuts or powered transit.The crew will also conduct scientific research in partnership with the National Institute of Oceanography, studying microplastics, documenting ocean life, and raising awareness about marine health.