NEW DELHI: Defence minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday honoured the tri-services all-women crew of the Indian Army Sailing Vessel (IASV) Triveni for successfully completing the Samudra Pradakshina Expedition, India’s first-ever tri-service all-women circumnavigation sailing mission.Congratulating the crew, Singh said they had not only completed a historic maritime expedition but had also challenged stereotypes about women’s role in demanding military operations.“I would like to welcome all of you on behalf of the entire nation. You have not only won the sea, but you have also defeated all of them who used to say that our daughters cannot be a part of such difficult campaigns. You have proven that physical capability, mental toughness, and leadership quality do not depend on gender. Today, every daughter of India is looking at you and confidently believes that she can cross the sea and defeat the entire world,” he said.The defence minister said the expedition was a symbol of India’s women power, determination and the growing strength of joint operations among the Army, Navy and Air Force. He added that the mission demonstrated how women officers from the three services worked as one team to achieve a common goal and inspire future generations.
What was the Samudra Pradakshina Expedition?
The nine-member crew sailed for 314 days, covering nearly 25,500 nautical miles across four oceans after setting out from Mumbai on September 11, 2025. The expedition was virtually flagged off by Rajnath Singh and officially flagged in after the crew’s return.The mission fulfilled internationally recognised criteria for circumnavigation by crossing all meridians of longitude, crossing the Equator twice, crossing the International Date Line and rounding the three Great Capes: Cape Leeuwin, Cape Horn and the Cape of Good Hope.The crew also successfully navigated the Drake Passage, earning membership of the prestigious fraternity of Cape Horners, an honour reserved for sailors who complete one of the world’s most challenging maritime passages.According to the defence ministry, the expedition was made possible through nearly two years of intensive training, meticulous planning and round-the-clock shore-based support. During port calls across several countries, IASV Triveni also showcased India’s maritime traditions, military professionalism and cultural heritage, strengthening the country’s military diplomacy and soft power.The expedition is being recognised as a landmark achievement and a significant milestone for women serving in challenging operational roles.