India, Sept. 11 -- Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday flagged-off a historic Tri-service all-women circumnavigation sailing expedition Samudra Pradakshina, the first ever in the world, from the Gateway of India in Mumbai.

In his address from South Block, he described the voyage as a glowing symbol of Nari Shakti, the collective strength, unity and jointness of the three Services, Aatmanirbhar Bharat and its military diplomacy and global vision.

Over the next nine months, 10 women officers will sail onboard the indigenously-built Indian Army Sailing Vessel (IASV) Triveni on an easterly route covering approximately 26,000 nautical miles.

They will cross the Equator twice, round the three great Capes - Leeuwin, Horn & Good H...