India Defence News, Mumbai, April 7, 2025 – In a landmark celebration of Nari Shakti, a tri-services all-women circumnavigation sailing expedition, Samudra Pradakshina, was flagged off today from the Indian Naval Watermanship Training Centre, Colaba, Mumbai, marking the start of a challenging 55-day voyage to Seychelles and back.
Pioneering Gender Parity at Sea
The Samudra Pradakshina expedition, featuring a 12-member crew from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, underscores India’s commitment to gender inclusivity in maritime and military domains.
Flagged off by Lieutenant General AK Ramesh, Commandant of the College of Military Engineering, the voyage covers 4,000 nautical miles aboard the Indian Army Sailing Vessel (IASV) Triveni.
A Tribute to Warrior Queens
The expedition pays homage to India’s legendary warrior queens—Rani Velu Nachiyar, Rani Durgavati, and Rani Lakshmi Bai—whose courage inspires the crew.
“This mission is not just about sailing; it’s about showcasing the strength and resilience of women in uniform,” said an official from the expedition command, highlighting its symbolic significance.
Rigorous Training for High Seas
Selected from 41 volunteers, the 12 officers underwent two years of intensive training at the Army Adventure Nodal Centre for Blue Water Sailing (AANC-BWS).
Their preparation included mastering navigation, weather forecasting, emergency handling, and long-distance sailing, with prior expeditions to Lakshadweep and other routes honing their skills for this arduous journey.
Aboard IASV Triveni
The IASV Triveni, a robust, indigenously built vessel, is equipped to handle the unpredictable challenges of the Indian Ocean.
The crew will face adverse weather, mechanical contingencies, and physical demands during the 55-day voyage, testing their endurance, teamwork, and technical expertise.
Prelude to Global Ambitions
Samudra Pradakshina serves as a preparatory phase for a more ambitious all-women global circumnavigation planned for 2026, aiming to set a world record.
The current mission will refine the crew’s readiness, leadership, and maritime capabilities, paving the way for future milestones.
Promoting Nari Shakti and Jointmanship
The tri-services collaboration exemplifies inter-service camaraderie, with six Army officers, one Navy officer, and four Air Force officers working in unison.
“This expedition is a shining symbol of Nari Shakti and jointmanship, breaking traditional barriers,” said Lt Gen AK Ramesh during the flag-off ceremony.
Return and Celebration
The crew is expected to return to Mumbai on May 30, 2025, where a flagging-in ceremony will mark the voyage’s completion.
The event will celebrate the crew’s achievements and India’s growing emphasis on empowering women in challenging roles within the armed forces.
Samudra Pradakshina sets sail as a bold testament to courage, determination, and the limitless potential of India’s women warriors, charting a course for equality and excellence on the high seas.