‘Samudra Pradakshina’: Historic all-women sailing expedition sets sail from Mumbai

The historic tri-service all-women circumnavigation sailing expedition Samudra Pradakshina, the first of its kind in the world, was virtually flagged off by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh from South Block here on Thursday.

Describing the historic voyage, which sailed off from the Gateway of India in Mumbai, as a glowing symbol of Nari Shakti, the Defence Minister stated that it also showcased the collective strength, unity, and jointness of the three Services, Aatmanirbhar Bharat, and its military diplomacy and global vision.

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In his address, Singh termed Samudra Pradakshina as not only a voyage onboard a ship, but also a spiritual sadhana and a journey of discipline and willpower. “During the expedition, our officers may face numerous challenges, but their flame of determination will pierce through the darkness. They will return home safely, showing the world that the valour of Indian women is beyond any limits,” he said.

Raksha Mantri recalled the recent extraordinary feat achieved by two Indian Women Navy officers, Lieutenant Commander Dilna K and Lieutenant Commander Rupa A, who successfully circumnavigated the globe onboard another indigenous vessel, INS Tarini, in double-handed mode, overcoming a number of challenges with courage and dedication. He exuded confidence that IASV Triveni will set another global benchmark in maritime adventure, writing another golden chapter in India’s maritime journey.

The Defence Minister described the tri-service expedition as a shining example of the government’s commitment towards jointness among the three Services. “We believe that when there is a feeling of jointness among the Armed Forces, even the biggest challenge seems small,” he said.

In a statement issued here, the Ministry of Defence said that over the next nine months, 10 women officers will sail onboard the indigenously-built Indian Army Sailing Vessel (IASV) Triveni on an easterly route covering approximately 26,000 nautical miles. They will cross the Equator twice, round the three great Capes – Leeuwin, Horn and Good Hope, covering all major oceans and some of the most dangerous waters, including the Southern Ocean and the Drake Passage. The team will also make four international port calls before returning to Mumbai in May 2026.