In a landmark moment for gender inclusion in military operations, the Indian Armed Forces' first-ever all-women tri-services sailing expedition team returned to Mumbai on Wednesday after successfully completing a 1,800-nautical-mile international voyage to Seychelles.
The expedition, which was flagged off on April 7 in Mumbai, marks a historic milestone in the Indian military’s maritime journey, showcasing the operational strength and synergy of women officers across the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
The team included Lt Col Anuja, Maj Karamjeet, Maj Tanyah, Capt Omita, Capt Dauli, Capt Prajakta of the Indian Army; Lt Cdr Priyanka of Indian Navy and Sqn Ldr Vibha, Sqn Ldr Shraddha, Sqn Ldr Aruvi, Sqn Ldr Vaishali of the Indian Air Force.
Sailing aboard the indigenously-built 56-foot vessel Triveni, the all-women crew navigated two months of harsh open-sea conditions, battling tropical squalls, high sea states, and prolonged fatigue.
The expedition was ceremonially flagged in by Commandant, College of Military Engineering Lieutenant General A.K. Ramesh in Mumbai, who hailed the expedition as “a milestone in gender-inclusive operational excellence.” Commending the grit and endurance of the 11-member crew, he noted that the mission underscored the evolving role of women as front-line contributors in India's defence landscape.
During their port call in Seychelles, the crew engaged in multiple high-level defence diplomacy events, including meetings with the country’s minister of foreign affairs, the Chief of Combined Defence Staff, and the Indian High Commissioner.
The mission represents a major stride in the Armed Forces’ emphasis on jointmanship, maritime outreach, and women-led initiatives, the defence ministry said, adding that it affirms India’s commitment to expanding its blue water capabilities through inclusive and integrated efforts.
“As India continues to expand its maritime footprint and capabilities, the successful completion of this voyage serves as a symbol of the Armed Forces’ commitment to excellence, equality, and strategic vision - led proudly by its women warriors on the high seas,” the defence ministry release stated.