Samudra Pradakshina – First Tri-Service All-Women Circumnavigation Sailing Expedition

1. Overview

• Flagged off: 11 September 2025, by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

• From: Gateway of India, Mumbai.

• By: 10 women officers from Army, Navy, Air Force.

• Vessel: Indian Army Sailing Vessel (IASV) Triveni, 50-foot indigenously built yacht.

• Duration: 9 months (return in May 2026).

• Route: ~26,000 nautical miles, easterly course, crossing Equator twice, rounding 3 great Capes —

  • Cape Leeuwin (Australia)

  • Cape Horn (South America)

  • Cape of Good Hope (South Africa).

2. Significance

• First-of-its-kind globally: First tri-service, all-women circumnavigation by sailing.

• Nari Shakti: Showcases women’s empowerment in armed forces.

• Jointness in Armed Forces: Symbol of integration across Army, Navy, Air Force.

• Aatmanirbhar Bharat: Voyage on an indigenously built vessel (Triveni).

• India’s Global Vision: Demonstrates maritime capability, resilience, and leadership.

• Historic Parallel: Builds on 2017–18 Navika Sagar Parikrama (first Indian Navy all-women circumnavigation team).

3. Challenges

• Long-duration ocean sailing in extreme weather conditions.

• Navigating international waters without external assistance.

• Maintaining joint service coordination at sea.

4. Expected Outcomes

• Promotion of maritime awareness and women’s participation in defence.

• Strengthening of India’s soft power and global maritime image.

• Inspiration for youth, particularly women, to join armed forces.