Why in news?
Samudra Pradakshina is the world's first-ever tri-service all-women sailing circumnavigation expedition. It was flagged off by Defence Minister on September 11, 2025, from the Gateway of India, Mumbai. 

Key details about Samudra Pradakshina:

• The crew consists of 10 women officers from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, led by Lt Col Anuja Varudkar.
• They sail on the indigenously built Indian Army Sailing Vessel (IASV) Triveni.
• The expedition lasts about 9 months and covers approximately 26,000 nautical miles.
• It follows an easterly route crossing the Equator twice and rounding three great Capes: Leeuwin, Horn, and Good Hope.
• The expedition includes scientific research in collaboration with the National Institute of Oceanography on microplastics, marine biodiversity, and ocean health.
• It complies with the World Sailing Speed Record Council’s norms for global circumnavigation under sail alone without canals or powered transit.
• The expedition promotes women empowerment, military cooperation, Atmanirbhar Bharat, and strengthens India’s maritime diplomacy.
• This expedition showcases India’s dedication to advancing the role of women in defense and maritime sectors while reinforcing the country’s global maritime presence and scientific research contribution.

Download Pdf