Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday lauded the success of India's first-ever tri-services all-women global sailing expedition, ‘Samudra Pradakshina’, describing it as a landmark achievement that not only circumnavigated the Earth but also filled crores of Indians with pride. Virtually flagging in the expedition onboard the Indian Armed Services Vessel (IASV) Triveni, the Defence Minister praised the courage, determination and resilience of the all-women crew, calling the mission a shining example of India's growing strength and confidence.
Addressing the event, Rajnath Singh said the expedition showcased India's maritime capability, military professionalism and the spirit of women empowerment. He noted that during their voyage, the crew members acted as ambassadors of India's culture, democratic values and traditions while visiting various countries, thereby strengthening the nation's global image and soft power. He also described IASV Triveni as a symbol of the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, highlighting India's indigenous innovation, technological capability and self-reliance in defence.
The Defence Minister emphasized that the voyage was far more than a sailing expedition. He said the mission reflected the seamless coordination among the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force, demonstrating the strength of jointness within the armed forces. Stressing the significance of unity, he remarked that India's real strength lies in the collective spirit of its three services working together for national objectives.
Highlighting the challenges faced during the journey, Rajnath Singh said the crew successfully overcame harsh weather conditions, towering ocean waves and extended periods of isolation through remarkable courage and mental resilience. He remarked that the determination of India's daughters had proved stronger than the mighty oceans, making the expedition a source of inspiration for future generations.
The event was attended virtually by the country's top military leadership, including Chief of Defence Staff General N. S. Raja Subramani, Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Krishna Swaminathan and Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh.
The historic expedition was launched from the Gateway of India in Mumbai on September 11, 2025. Led by Lieutenant Colonel Anuja Varudkar, with Squadron Leader Shraddha P. Raju serving as the Deputy Expedition Leader, the all-women crew successfully completed a challenging circumnavigation of the globe after covering more than 25,500 nautical miles across some of the world's most demanding waters.
During the expedition, IASV Triveni crossed the Equator twice, rounded the three Great Capes—Cape Leeuwin in Australia, Cape Horn in South America and the Cape of Good Hope in Africa—and sailed across all longitudes and major latitudes, including the treacherous Southern Ocean belt. In a significant maritime accomplishment, the vessel completed the entire voyage through an open-ocean route without transiting strategic waterways such as the Panama Canal or the Suez Canal, before returning to Mumbai, the same point from which the journey had begun.
The expedition team comprised officers from all three defence services, underscoring the spirit of jointness in the Indian Armed Forces. Along with Lieutenant Colonel Anuja Varudkar and Squadron Leader Shraddha P. Raju, the crew included Major Karamjeet Kaur, Major Omita Dalvi, Captain Prajakta Nikam, Lieutenant Commander Priyanka Gusain, Wing Commander Vibha Singh, Squadron Leader Aruvi Jayadev and Squadron Leader Vaishali Bhandari.
The successful completion of 'Samudra Pradakshina' marks a significant milestone in India's defence history. It not only demonstrates the operational excellence of the armed forces but also highlights the increasing role of women in challenging military missions. The expedition stands as a powerful testament to India's maritime capabilities, indigenous defence achievements and commitment to empowering women in uniform.
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