On July 30, 2026, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recognized the nine-member crew of the Indian Army Sailing Vessel (IASV) Triveni for their remarkable achievement in completing “Samudra Pradakshina,” India’s first-ever Tri-Service all-women circumnavigation sailing expedition. During the event in New Delhi, he celebrated the expedition as a testament to Nari Shakti, the spirit of women empowerment, as well as a demonstration of the effective collaboration among the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
The crew embarked on a remarkable 314-day global voyage, navigating nearly 25,500 nautical miles across four oceans. Singh described this journey as a milestone that highlights the courage, professionalism, and resilience of India’s women in uniform. He emphasized how their successful mission serves as an inspiration for all Indians, breaking stereotypes about women’s participation in demanding military roles.
Addressing the crew directly, the Defence Minister commended their determination and commitment to the mission. He added that their accomplishment serves as a powerful symbol of empowerment and underscores the growing strength of joint military operations. Singh remarked that they had shattered outdated notions of gender limitations in the military, demonstrating that attributes such as physical capability and leadership are not bound by gender. He encouraged every young girl in India to see them as role models, capable of achieving great things.
The crew shared their experiences from the voyage, which they described as both challenging and rewarding. They recounted facing prolonged isolation, unpredictable weather, and the physically taxing conditions of ocean sailing. However, they attributed their success to teamwork, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to make the nation proud.
In response to their narratives, Rajnath Singh expressed how their dedication has personally inspired him and reinforced his belief in the power of conviction and perseverance. He noted how their achievement not only fulfilled personal and national aspirations but also showcased India’s engineering excellence and indigenous capabilities on a global stage. The voyage projected India’s maritime traditions, military professionalism, and cultural heritage while fostering goodwill with various nations.
The successful completion of Samudra Pradakshina is regarded as one of the most significant milestones in the history of India’s Armed Forces. The mission met all internationally recognized criteria for global circumnavigation, including crossing the Equator twice and rounding the Three Great Capes—Cape Leeuwin, Cape Horn, and Cape of Good Hope. Notably, the crew’s successful passage through the notoriously challenging Drake Passage and the rounding of Cape Horn distinguished them as members of the elite fraternity of Cape Horners.
Officials highlighted that the expedition was the result of nearly two years of meticulous planning and preparation, leveraging the support of a dedicated 24×7 shore-based network. This extensive operation involved multiple military organizations, technical experts, logistics teams, and support agencies, ensuring the crew remained well-prepared throughout their 314-day journey.
The felicitation ceremony was attended by prominent military officials, including the Chief of the Army Staff and senior officers from all three Services. Earlier, the Raksha Mantri had virtually flagged in the crew after their return to Mumbai on July 22, 2026. Singh had also presided over the expedition’s initial flag-off ceremony via video conferencing in September 2025.
Beyond setting records, Samudra Pradakshina has emerged as a significant symbol of women’s empowerment, collaborative military efforts, and India’s evolving identity as a maritime power. The expedition is anticipated to inspire future generations of women and armed forces personnel while reinforcing the values of courage, resilience, teamwork, and dedicated service to the nation.
