NewKerala.com

Key Points

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has launched a historic global sailing expedition featuring ten women officers from India's Army, Navy, and Air Force. The mission will see these officers navigating over 26,000 nautical miles, crossing challenging oceanic routes and stopping at key international ports. This unprecedented voyage symbolizes the unity of India's armed forces and demonstrates the extraordinary capabilities of women in leadership roles. The expedition is not just a maritime challenge, but a powerful statement about national pride, military strength, and gender empowerment.

Key Points: Rajnath Singh Launches Historic Women-Led Tri-Service Ocean Voyage

  • First tri-service all-women sailing expedition to circumnavigate globe
  • 10 women officers covering 26,000 nautical miles across challenging waters
  • Mission highlights jointness of Indian armed forces
  • Represents women's leadership and national maritime capabilities
2 min read

Defence Minister flags off historic tri-service sailing expedition on IASV Triveni

Indian women officers embark on groundbreaking global sailing expedition, showcasing military unity and female leadership across Army, Navy, and Air Force.

"Our daughters will complete this mission and show the world that the valour of Indian women knows no bounds. - Rajnath Singh, Defence Minister"

New Delhi, Sep 11

In a historic first, women officers of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force have embarked on a mission to circumnavigate the globe by sea. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh flagged off the Indian Army Sailing Vessel (IASV) Triveni through video conferencing from New Delhi on Thursday.

A joint team of ten women officers will cover more than 26,000 nautical miles during this voyage, marking the first-ever tri-service expedition of its kind. The formal departure of the boat took place on September 11.

"This is the first time in history that women officers of all three services -- the Army, Navy, and Air Force -- are undertaking a mission to sail around the world, united under one flag and one mission," Singh said.

The Defence Minister added: "I am certain our daughters will complete this mission and show the world that the valour of Indian women knows no bounds. This is not just a sea voyage -- it is also a journey of discipline, courage, and willpower. Storms, loneliness, fatigue, and despair may come your way, but the light of determination burning in your hearts will overcome every challenge. When you return, you will not just come back after circumnavigating the oceans -- you will return after creating a new record for India."

He highlighted that the expedition also reflects the spirit of jointness among the three forces. "This unity among the Army, Navy, and Air Force is the strength we are fostering. When our forces move together, even the mightiest waves seem small before them."

The Defence Minister also underlined the significance of women leading the mission. "The proudest part of this campaign is that it is commanded by women officers. Today, women are not only partners but commanders of their own destiny."

During the voyage, the team will halt at key ports including Fremantle (Australia), Lyttelton (New Zealand), Port Stanley (Falkland Islands), and Cape Town (South Africa), engaging with local officials and communities to represent India's military strength as well as its cultural heritage.

The women officers will cross the equator twice, sail past the world's three great capes, and navigate some of the most challenging waters, such as the Southern Ocean and the Drake Passage.

The expedition -- part of Mission MARG -- is being hailed as a landmark in showcasing India's maritime prowess, the unity of its armed forces, and the power of its women.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Finally our armed forces are getting the recognition they deserve for joint operations. Tri-service coordination is crucial for national security. Great initiative!
M
Michael C
As a sailing enthusiast, I know how challenging the Southern Ocean and Drake Passage can be. These women are taking on some of the most dangerous waters in the world. Respect!
A
Ananya R
My cousin is in the Navy and she says this expedition is already inspiring so many young girls to consider careers in armed forces. Representation matters! 👏
S
Siddharth J
While this is a great symbolic gesture, I hope it translates into more substantial roles for women in combat positions. The real test is permanent commission and command roles.
K
Kavya N
26,000 nautical miles! That's like going around India 15 times! These officers are true heroes. Can't wait to follow their journey on social media.
V
Vikram M
The diplomatic aspect is smart - engaging with local communities at ports will showcase India's soft power along with military capability. Smart move by defence establishment.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50