Raksha Mantri Virtually Flags Off ‘Samudra Pradakshina’, First Ever Tri-Service All-Women Circumnavigation Sailing Expedition, from Mumbai

Last Updated: 2025-09-12 - On September 11, 2025, Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh flagged off the first-ever Tri-service all-women circumnavigation sailing expedition, Samudra Pradakshina, from Mumbai. This historic event is significant for UPSC aspirants as it touches upon themes relevant to GS Papers 2 and 3, including women empowerment and maritime diplomacy.

Key Facts About Samudra Pradakshina

• Flagged off on September 11, 2025 by Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh.
• First-ever Tri-service all-women circumnavigation sailing expedition.
• Named Samudra Pradakshina.
• Led by Lieutenant Colonel Anuja Varudkar.
• Comprises 10 women officers.
• Embarking on a journey aboard the Indian Army Sailing Vessel (IASV) Triveni.
• Journey duration: approximately 9 months.
• Distance to be covered: 26,000 nautical miles.
• Will cross the Equator twice and round three great Capes: Leeuwin, Horn, and Good Hope.
• International port calls at Fremantle, Lyttelton, Port Stanley, and Cape Town.
• Conducting scientific research on microplastics, marine biodiversity, and ocean health.
• Adheres to strict guidelines of the World Sailing Speed Record Council.
• Symbolizes India's commitment to women empowerment and maritime diplomacy.
• Showcases advancements in indigenous defense capabilities.
• Represents the government's commitment towards jointness between the Armed Forces.

India's Maritime Diplomacy and Women Empowerment

The Samudra Pradakshina expedition is a testament to India's growing emphasis on maritime diplomacy and women empowerment, aligning with the nation's strategic goals. This initiative not only highlights India's prowess in defense capabilities but also showcases its commitment to gender equality, a critical component of social development. The expedition's success could bolster India's ranking in global gender equality indices and maritime achievements.

Related Government Schemes/Policies

• Beti Bachao Beti Padhao: Aims to improve the efficiency of welfare services for girls.
• Make in India: Encourages indigenous production, including defense capabilities.
• Sagarmala Project: Focuses on port-led development and maritime infrastructure.

UPSC Relevance

• GS Paper 2: Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International relations - Women empowerment initiatives.
• GS Paper 3: Technology, Economic Development, Bio-diversity, Environment, Security, and Disaster Management - Maritime security and defense capabilities.
• Prelims Angle: Questions on the expedition's specifics, such as the number of participants, distance covered, and key ports.
• Mains Angle: Analytical themes on women in defense, maritime diplomacy, and India's strategic interests.

FAQ Section

• What is Samudra Pradakshina?
  Samudra Pradakshina is the first-ever Tri-service all-women circumnavigation sailing expedition, aimed at showcasing women's empowerment and India's maritime capabilities.
• Why is Samudra Pradakshina important?
  This expedition symbolizes India's commitment to gender equality and maritime diplomacy, aligning with national goals of 'Nari Shakti' and 'Viksit Bharat'.
• What are the key features of Samudra Pradakshina?
  The expedition involves 10 women officers, covers 26,000 nautical miles, and includes scientific research on marine biodiversity, adhering to international sailing standards.