Samudra Pradakshina
Samudra Pradakshina is India’s first-ever tri-service (Army, Navy, Air Force) all-women circumnavigation expedition.
It involves sailing around the globe, crossing all longitudes and major oceans, meeting the World Sailing Speed Record Council’s norms for a true circumnavigation.
Historical Context:
Builds on India’s rich circumnavigation legacy:
Capt. Dilip Donde (2009–10) – first solo Indian circumnavigation.
Cmde. Abhilash Tomy (2012–13) – first Indian non-stop circumnavigation.
INSV Tarini – Navika Sagar Parikrama (2017–18) & Navika Sagar Parikrama-II (2024–25) by all-women Indian Navy teams.
Inspired by global pioneers like Sir Robin Knox-Johnston (1969).
Aims & Objectives:
Symbol of Nari Shakti: Showcase courage, resilience, and leadership of women in uniform.
Promote Jointness: Strengthen synergy among Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Diplomatic Outreach: Use port calls as platforms for military diplomacy & cultural exchange.
Scientific Research: Collaborate with NIO to study micro-plastics, ocean biodiversity, and marine health.
Key Features:
Vessel: IASV Triveni, a 50-foot indigenous yacht (Class A) built in Puducherry.
Route: ~26,000 nautical miles, easterly route, crossing Equator twice, rounding Capes Leeuwin, Horn, and Good Hope.
Crew: 10 women officers, led by Lt Col Anuja Varudkar (Army) & Sqn Ldr Shraddha P Raju (IAF).
Timeline: Sept 2025 – May 2026.
Significance:
Women Empowerment: First global tri-service women-led expedition → milestone for gender inclusion in armed forces.
Aatmanirbhar Bharat: Showcases Indian shipbuilding and seamanship capabilities.
Strategic Messaging: Demonstrates India’s maritime ambition & global engagement
