12 women officers from armed forces set sail to Seychelles
New Delhi: A total of 12 women officers from Indian armed forces --- Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force, has set on circumnavigation sailing expedition --- “Samudra Pradakshina” from Mumbai to Seychelles on April 7.
Flagged off by College of Military Engineering (CME) Commandant Lieutenant General AK Ramesh from the Indian Naval Watermanship Training Centre in Mumbai’s Colaba, the tri-services all women circumnavigation sailing expedition -- “Samudra Pradakshina” will also come back to Mumbai after 55-day of Indian Ocean voyage, on May 30.
During their 55-day circumnavigation of the Indian Ocean, the team will cover 4,000 nautical miles aboard the IASV Triveni.
Aimed to promote gender parity in maritime endeavours, this pioneering initiative highlights the indomitable spirit of Nari Shakti and sisterhood in the armed forces.
“The expedition serves as a preparatory phase for an even more ambitious circumnavigation sailing expedition planned for 2026” Indian Navy PRO Captain Vivek Madhwal said.
“Selected from 41 enthusiastic volunteers, twelve women officers, rigorously trained for two years in ocean sailing, are set to navigate treacherous waters, demonstrating their resilience, courage and determination on the high seas.”
The crew have embarked upon several training expeditions, gradually increasing in complexity and distance including short and long distances over days and nights.
“They have come out successful through challenges of weather, mechanical issues of the yacht and physical toll.”
“The Mumbai-Sychelles-Mumbai expedition not only symbolises the empowerment of women in the armed forces, but also pays tribute to India’s legendary warrior queens like Rani Velu Nachiyar, Rani Durgavati and Rani Lakshmi Bai, whose deeds continue to inspire generations.”
The flagging-in ceremony is scheduled to take place on 30 May 2025, marking the successful completion of this ground-breaking voyage.
“This expedition reaffirms India’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and excellence in maritime endeavours, proving that Nari Shakti is an unstoppable force capable of conquering any challenge.”
