Agencies
MUMBAI, Apr 7: In a landmark initiative showcasing the spirit of Nari Shakti, a Tri-services All-Women Circumnavigation Sailing Expedition, Samudra Pradakshina, was flagged off today from the Indian Naval Watermanship Training Centre, Colaba, Mumbai. The expedition was ceremoniously launched by Lt Gen AK Ramesh, Commandant, College of Military Engineering (CME). The 12-member crew, comprising women officers from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, has embarked on a challenging 55-day, 4,000-nautical-mile voyage aboard the Indian Armed Services Vessel (IASV) Triveni, sailing from Mumbai to Seychelles and back.
This pioneering mission stands as a symbol of women's empowerment and gender inclusivity in the Indian Armed Forces. It is also a crucial preparatory step for a more ambitious global circumnavigation expedition slated for 2026.
Selected from 41 spirited volunteers, the crew underwent two years of rigorous ocean sailing training, including complex short- and long-distance voyages under varied and often adverse conditions. Their preparation involved overcoming challenges such as harsh weather, mechanical failures, and the physical demands of open-sea sailing.
The expedition also pays homage to India's historic warrior queens-Rani Velu Nachiyar, Rani Durgavati, and Rani Lakshmi Bai-whose bravery continues to inspire generations.
Scheduled to return on May 30, 2025, the Samudra Pradakshina expedition underscores the strength, resilience, and determination of women in uniform and reaffirms India's commitment to fostering excellence and inclusivity in maritime operations. |
