In a remarkable display of courage and national pride, Indian women officers are set to chart a historic course across the world’s oceans. In a pioneering expedition, 10 women officers from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force will embark on a nine-month journey covering over 26,000 nautical miles across the world aboard the indigenously-built Indian Army Sailing Vessel (IASV) Triveni.
Raksha Mantri Shri @rajnathsingh today virtually flagged-off a historic first-ever Tri-Service all-women circumnavigation sailing expedition from the #GatewayofIndia, Mumbai. 10 women officers will sail onboard the indigenously-built IASV Triveni for 9 months, covering 26,000… pic.twitter.com/zb2akyM1jN
— Ministry of Defence, Government of India (@SpokespersonMoD) September 11, 2025
Challenging voyage across major oceans
The 50-foot indigenously-built IASV Triveni, constructed in Puducherry, departed from Mumbai and will traverse treacherous waters and harsh winds. The crew will cross the Equator twice and round the three great Capes including Cape Leeuwin, Cape Horn, and the Cape of Good Hope. Moreover, the journey will cover major oceans including the Southern Ocean and the Drake Passage.
The expedition includes four scheduled port calls at Fremantle (Australia), Lyttelton (New Zealand), Buenos Aires (Argentina), and Cape Town (South Africa). The crew is set to return to Mumbai by May 2026.
Crew of trailblazers
The 10-member crew includes:
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Lieutenant Colonel Anuja Varudkar – Expedition Leader
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Squadron Leader Shraddha P Raju – Deputy Expedition Leader
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Major Karamjeet Kaur
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Major Omita Dalvi
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Captain Prajakta P Nikam
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Captain Dauli Butola
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Lieutenant Commander Priyanka Gusain
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Wing Commander Vibha Singh
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Squadron Leader Aruvi Jayadev
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Squadron Leader Vaishali Bhandari
Each officer has undergone rigorous training over three years, starting with smaller offshore expeditions on class B vessels before progressing to the class A IASV Triveni, acquired in October 2024.
Scientific research onboard
As per reports, the crew will collaborate with the National Institute of Oceanography to conduct scientific research, focusing on micro-plastics, documenting marine life, and raising awareness about ocean health.
This historic expedition follows the successful circumnavigation by two Indian Navy women officers earlier this year and aims to further India’s legacy in maritime exploration.
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Symbol of empowerment and national pride
#WATCH | The Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Tarini has returned triumphant to her base port at Goa on 21 Apr 24 after a historic transoceanic expedition of nearly two months duration. The expedition was undertaken in double-handed mode by Lt Cdr Dilna K and Lt Cdr Roopa A,… pic.twitter.com/gztwMreF1p
— ANI (@ANI) April 22, 2024
This expedition represents a strong symbol of Nari Shakti, collective strength, and the unity of India’s three defence services. It reflects India’s commitment to Aatmanirbhar Bharat, military diplomacy, and global maritime vision.
