In a groundbreaking achievement for the Indian Armed Forces, nine women officers successfully completed ‘Samudra Pradakshina,’ the nation’s first-ever Tri-Service all-women circumnavigation sailing expedition aboard IASV Triveni. The Southern Command, led by Lt Gen Rajesh Pushkar, AVSM, VSM, celebrated this remarkable accomplishment, recognizing the extraordinary courage, resilience, and unwavering determination exhibited by the expedition members throughout their journey.
During an interactive session with the team, Lt Gen Pushkar commended the officers for exemplifying the spirit of Tri-Service Jointness. Their seamless coordination among the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force during the historic voyage was a testament to the effective collaboration necessary for such ambitious maritime expeditions.
The expedition lasted an impressive 314 days, covering nearly 25,500 nautical miles across four oceans, all the while facing a diverse range of challenging maritime and weather conditions. This accomplishment not only marks a significant milestone in India’s military history but also underscores the increasing role of women in undertaking demanding operational and adventure missions, thereby showcasing their professional excellence on the global stage.
Lt Gen Pushkar praised the expedition members for their exceptional endurance, leadership, teamwork, and adaptability. He emphasized that the successful completion of Samudra Pradakshina reflects the Armed Forces’ commitment to empowering women and ensuring equal opportunities for them to excel in every domain, including high-endurance maritime adventures.
This landmark journey is presented as a shining example of integrated operations among the three Services, reinforcing the importance of interoperability, mutual trust, and joint planning—values that are crucial to enhancing India’s defense preparedness and operational effectiveness.
The nine women officers have been celebrated widely as an inspiration for aspiring military personnel and young women across the country. By setting a new benchmark for adventure, leadership, and perseverance, they have strengthened the legacy of Nari Shakti, or women power, within the Indian Armed Forces.
The Southern Command highlighted that this remarkable accomplishment is indicative of the Indian Armed Forces’ ongoing commitment to fostering gender inclusivity, promoting Tri-Service cooperation, and encouraging personnel to push the boundaries of excellence in challenging operational environments. The historic expedition aboard IASV Triveni will be remembered as a defining chapter in India’s military maritime history and as a powerful symbol of courage, determination, and national pride.
