Mumbai: A 12-member all-women tri-service crew embarked on a 55-day ocean sailing expedition to Seychelles on Monday.
The crew, comprising officers from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, set sail aboard the Indian Armed Sailing Vessel (IASV) Triveni from the Indian Naval Watermanship Training Centre in Colaba.
The expedition was officially flagged off by Lieutenant General AK Ramesh, Commandant of the College of Military Engineering (CME), marking the beginning of a 4,000-nautical-mile round trip between Mumbai and Seychelles.
Described by the Ministry of Defence as a “pioneering initiative,” the voyage underscores the spirit of Nari Shakti (women power) and aims to promote gender inclusivity in India’s maritime and military domains.
The all-women team was selected from among 41 enthusiastic volunteers and underwent two years of intensive training in ocean sailing.
Their preparation included a series of increasingly challenging expeditions under diverse and demanding conditions, testing their endurance, teamwork, and technical skill.
The crew has successfully navigated difficult weather, mechanical issues, and the physical rigors of extended sea travel.
The expedition is also part of the preparatory phase for a major circumnavigation sailing mission planned for 2026.
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Beyond showcasing women’s capabilities in the armed forces, the voyage pays tribute to India’s historic warrior queens—Rani Velu Nachiyar, Rani Durgavati, and Rani Lakshmi Bai—whose legacy continues to inspire generations of Indians.
The team is expected to return to Mumbai on May 30, when a formal flagging-in ceremony will be held to celebrate the successful completion of the expedition.
