All-Women Circumnavigation Expedition by Indian Armed Forces
An unprecedented expedition is set to be undertaken by an all-women team from the Indian Armed Forces, including the Army, Navy, and Air Force, aiming to circumnavigate the globe aboard the Indian Army Sailing Vessel (IASV) Triveni.
Team Composition and Training
- The team comprises 10 women officers:
- 5 from the Army
- 1 from the Navy
- 4 from the Air Force
- Training spanned two and a half years, covering:
- Navigation and communication
- Scuba diving
- Basic medicals and first aid
- Crisis handling
- Fatigue management
- Weather readings and mechanical work
- Included a training expedition to Seychelles, covering 10,000 nautical miles
Significance and Leadership
- Squadron Leader Shraddha Raju is part of the team, bringing 11 years of experience as a technical officer.
- Lieutenant Colonel Anuja Varudkar leads the expedition, emphasizing the synergy among the Services and highlighting Nari Shakti.
Expedition Details
- Distance to be covered: 21,600 nautical miles
- Set to commence on September 11
- Duration: 8 to 9 months
- Key points of interest:
- Crossing the equator twice
- Rounding three Great Capes: Cape Leeuwin, Cape Horn, and the Cape of Good Hope
- Challenging route through Drake Passage, known for rough seas
- Planned visits to four foreign ports: Australia, New Zealand, Argentina, and South Africa
- Return to Mumbai in May 2026
Vessel and Diplomatic Engagement
- Triveni is a 50-foot indigenously built yacht, symbolizing Atmanirbhar Bharat
- Equipped with modern navigation and communication systems
- Lt. Commander Priyanka Gusain, a naval constructor with 8 years of experience, highlighted the expedition's role in strengthening diplomatic relations.
