Did the IASV Triveni, India's All-Women Tri-Service Sailing Vessel, Reach Australia?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Historic arrival of IASV Triveni in Fremantle.
- First all-women tri-service expedition.
- Covers 26,000 nautical miles.
- Engagements with local communities.
- Highlighting women's empowerment in military.
Canberra/New Delhi, Oct 27 (NationPress) The Indian Army Sailing Vessel IASV Triveni, part of the groundbreaking Tri-Service All-Women Circumnavigation Expedition titled 'Samudra Pradakshina', docked in Fremantle on Monday, marking its inaugural overseas port visit, according to an official announcement.
The crew was warmly welcomed by Kajari Biswas, the Consul General of India for Western Australia, along with Capt (IN) Rohit Raymond, the Defence Adviser in Canberra, and other officials from the Consulate, as stated in the release.
This arrival signifies a significant milestone in a nine-month expedition that commenced from the Gateway of India in Mumbai on September 11, flagged off by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
Upon reaching Fremantle, the team participated in various activities including rigging and maintenance inspections, conducting safety checks, and engaging with local Defence and sailing communities as well as the Indian Diaspora.
A lecture focusing on 'Women in Ocean Voyages' is also on the agenda. The vessel is slated to set sail for New Zealand on November 8, the statement noted.
'Samudra Pradakshina' is recognized as the world's first Tri-Service All-Women Circumnavigation Expedition, featuring nine women officers from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force aboard the domestically-built 50-foot IASV Triveni. The journey will take them on an easterly course covering approximately 26,000 nautical miles, crossing the Equator twice and rounding the Three Great Capes: Cape Leeuwin, Cape Horn, and the Cape of Good Hope.
This mission emphasizes both operational and diplomatic objectives, demonstrating women's leadership in military roles while reinforcing maritime relationships with partner nations, as highlighted in the statement.
"The 'Samudra Pradakshina' expedition stands as a beacon of Nari Shakti, Tri-Service jointness, and India's maritime aspirations. The bravery, expertise, and resilience displayed by these officers exemplify the finest qualities of our armed forces," the statement concluded.