Defence Minister Flags Off “Samudra Pradakshina”

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh virtually flagged off “Samudra Pradakshina”, a historic sailing expedition that marks the world’s first all-women Tri-service global circumnavigation. The mission is a significant milestone in India’s maritime and defence history, showcasing the strength, resilience, and skill of women officers from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.

What is Samudra Pradakshina?

“Samudra Pradakshina” is a nine-month circumnavigation expedition (September 2025 – May 2026) covering nearly 26,000 nautical miles under sail power only. The route follows an Easterly circumnavigation, crossing the Equator twice and rounding the three legendary Great Capes — Cape Leeuwin (Australia), Cape Horn (Chile), and Cape of Good Hope (South Africa).

The voyage strictly complies with the World Sailing Speed Record Council (WSSRC) rules — meaning no canals, no powered transit, only sail power.

Key Features of the Expedition

• Crew: All-women officers from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.

• Duration: 9 months (Sept 2025 – May 2026).

• Distance: ~26,000 nautical miles.

• Route: Easterly circumnavigation, crossing the Equator twice.

• Challenges: Harsh weather, unpredictable seas, and complete reliance on wind power.

India’s Circumnavigation Legacy

India has a proud history of global circumnavigation milestones:

• 1969: Sir Robin Knox-Johnston (UK) – First-ever solo non-stop circumnavigation.

• 2009–10: Captain Dilip Donde (Retd) – First Indian to complete solo circumnavigation.

• 2012–13: Commander Abhilash Tomy (Retd) – First Indian to achieve non-stop solo circumnavigation.

• 2017–18: Navika Sagar Parikrama (INSV Tarini) – First all-women Indian Navy crew circumnavigation.

• 2024–25: Navika Sagar Parikrama-II (INSV Tarini) – Two women naval officers completed a double-handed circumnavigation.

Now, with Samudra Pradakshina, India sets another global record — the first-ever all-women Tri-service circumnavigation expedition.

Significance

This expedition highlights:

• India’s commitment to gender inclusivity in the armed forces.

• The growing maritime capability of the country.

• The spirit of courage, endurance, and global leadership in adventure sailing.

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