Lt Gen Rajesh Pushkar Commends Women Officers for Completing Historic Tri-Service Samudra Pradakshina Expedition
Pune, July 23, 2026: Lt Gen Rajesh Pushkar, AVSM, VSM, the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Southern Command, extended his congratulations to nine women officers of the Indian Armed Forces for completing 'Samudra Pradakshina,' which is the nation's inaugural Tri-Service all-women circumnavigation sailing expedition aboard the IASV Triveni.
The Army Commander engaged with the expedition's participants, applauding their exceptional bravery, resilience, and determination, which were crucial in achieving one of the most challenging maritime expeditions undertaken by women officers in the Indian Armed Forces. He praised the team for exemplifying the essence of Tri-Service Jointness, showcasing seamless cooperation among officers from the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force throughout the historic journey.
This significant expedition spanned 314 days and nearly 25,500 nautical miles, navigating through four oceans under varied and challenging maritime and weather conditions. The successful circumnavigation marks a pivotal moment in India's military history, underscoring the increasing role of women in taking on demanding operational and adventure missions while demonstrating professional excellence on the global stage.
In his discussions, Lt Gen Rajesh Pushkar commended the officers for their extraordinary endurance, leadership, teamwork, and adaptability throughout the expedition. He highlighted that the successful completion of Samudra Pradakshina reflects the Armed Forces' commitment to empowering women and providing equal opportunities for them to excel across various domains, including high-endurance maritime expeditions.
The Army Commander stressed that the expedition is not only a testament to individual determination but also serves as a prime example of integrated operations among the three Services. The voyage underscored the significance of interoperability, mutual trust, and joint planning, which are central to enhancing India's defense preparedness and operational effectiveness.
The success of these nine women officers has been widely recognized as an inspiration for aspiring military personnel and young women across the nation. By circumnavigating the globe aboard IASV Triveni, they have established new standards for adventure, leadership, and perseverance, while reinforcing the legacy of Nari Shakti within the Indian Armed Forces.
According to Southern Command, this remarkable achievement highlights the Indian Armed Forces' ongoing focus on promoting gender inclusivity, fostering Tri-Service cooperation, and encouraging personnel to push the limits of excellence in challenging operational environments. The historic expedition aboard IASV Triveni will stand as a defining moment in India's military maritime history, symbolizing courage, determination, and national pride.
