In an inspiring demonstration of female empowerment, the Indian Armed Forces are preparing to make history with the launch of their first all-women sailing team on a circumnavigation mission. The 10-member crew will embark on their journey from Mumbai on September 11, aboard the indigenously constructed 50-foot Indian Army Sailing Vessel (IASV) Triveni, as they aim to cover an impressive 21,600 nautical miles.
The crew is composed of a diverse mix of talent, including five Army officers, one Naval officer, and four Air Force officers. Over the past two and a half years, these women have engaged in rigorous training, which included a challenging 10,000-nautical-mile expedition to Seychelles. Their preparation has encompassed a wide array of skills such as navigation, communication, scuba diving, medical first aid, fatigue management, and astute weather analysis.
Squadron Leader Shraddha Raju, who brings 11 years of experience as a technical officer on Sukhoi-30 aircraft, expressed her enthusiasm for this groundbreaking initiative. “We will be the forerunners of IASV Triveni and showcase the power of Indian tri-Services,” she stated, highlighting the collaborative spirit of the mission.
Leading the expedition is Lieutenant Colonel Anuja Varudkar, who has dedicated 21 years of her life to service. Describing the mission as a landmark achievement, she noted, “This expedition is about synergy. Each of us brings distinct skill sets to fulfill the mission.”
The journey is expected to last between eight to nine months, during which the crew will cross the equator twice and navigate past three iconic capes: Cape Leeuwin in Australia, Cape Horn in South America, and the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa. Additionally, they will make dockings at four international ports located in Australia, New Zealand, Argentina, and South Africa.
Captain Mehul Karnik, a spokesperson for the Navy, pointed out that one of the most formidable challenges the crew will face is the notorious Drake Passage, known for its treacherous seas and strong currents. The expedition is not just a physical challenge but also a test of the crew’s mental resilience.
The IASV Triveni, crafted in Puducherry, is equipped with state-of-the-art navigation and communication systems. Having already completed 10,000 nautical miles during its training, the vessel stands as a strong representation of India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, emphasizing self-reliance and indigenization.
Additionally, Naval Constructor Lt. Commander Priyanka Gusain shared that the mission will also have diplomatic significance. “We will be meeting the diaspora and, in a way, strengthening India’s relations abroad,” she remarked, noting the broader implications of their journey on international relations.
The crew’s anticipated return to Mumbai is scheduled for May 2026, promising to mark a significant milestone in India’s maritime narrative and elevate the role of women in the armed forces.
