Speech by H.E. Mr. Ajaneesh Kumar, Ambassador of India to Argentina, on the occasion of the Flag-Off Ceremony of the Indian Army Sailing Vessel (IASV) Triveni in Belgrano University on 13 March 2026

Chief of Navy Vice Admiral Juan Carlos Romay, Brigadier General Carlos Horacio Martín, Distinguished Ambassadors and members of the Diplomatic Corps, Senior officials of the Government and Armed Forces of Argentina, Lieutenant Colonel Anuja Varudkar and the remarkable crew of the Indian Army Sailing Vessel IASV Triveni, Distinguished guests, Members of the Indian community, Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good afternoon.

It is a great honour and privilege for me to welcome you to this important and inspiring occasion as we gather here today in the beautiful city of Buenos Aires to mark the flag-off ceremony of the IASV Triveni as it shortly resumes its historic voyage around the world.

2. Today’s ceremony celebrates far more than the departure of a sailing vessel. It celebrates courage, determination, cooperation among nations, and the timeless human spirit of exploration that has connected continents and cultures across the vast oceans of our planet.
3. IASV Triveni is undertaking a truly historic mission — the world’s first circumnavigation by an all-women Tri-Service crew drawn from the Armed Forces of India. The officers on board represent the proud traditions of the Indian Army, the Indian Navy, and the Indian Air Force, working together as a unified team in one of the most demanding maritime expeditions imaginable.
4. This remarkable voyage was formally flagged off by H.E. Mr. Rajnath Singh, the Hon’ble Raksha Mantri of India, on 11 September 2025 from the historic Gateway of India in Mumbai. Since that moment, IASV Triveni has sailed across thousands of nautical miles of open ocean, facing unpredictable weather, powerful currents, and the many challenges that accompany long-distance ocean sailing.
5. From India, the crew sailed to Australia and New Zealand, and from there across the vast Pacific Ocean to reach the shores of Argentina. Their journey has taken them through some of the most demanding waters on the planet, including the legendary maritime region near Cape Horn, long regarded by sailors as one of the most formidable passages in the world’s oceans.
6. Their arrival in Argentina marks an important milestone in this global expedition. From here, IASV Triveni will continue its journey across the Atlantic Ocean toward South Africa, before eventually returning home to India, completing an extraordinary circumnavigation of the globe.
7. Ladies and Gentlemen,

This voyage represents not only an extraordinary maritime achievement but also a powerful message about the values that guide modern India — courage, perseverance, teamwork, and above all, the empowerment of women.

8. The mission of IASV Triveni is a shining example of “Nari Shakti” (women empowerment), the strength and leadership of women. Across India’s long civilisational history, the role of women as leaders, warriors, scholars and innovators has been deeply honoured.
9. The six officers aboard IASV Triveni as well as the reserves embody this spirit of strength and determination. Through their courage and professionalism, they are inspiring young people particularly young women across the world to pursue their dreams, to challenge boundaries, and to serve their nations with dedication and pride.
10. Allow me also to take this opportunity to express our deep appreciation to the Government of Argentina, specially to the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Trade and Worship, and the friendly people of Argentina for their warm hospitality and generous support extended to the crew of IASV Triveni during their stay in Buenos Aires. I would not be fulfilling my duties if I did not express my gratitude to the university authorities, who have so kindly made their auditorium available to us for this event.
11. The presence of the Honourable Chief of Navy Vice Admiral Romay, senior officials of the Argentine Government, and members of the Argentine Armed Forces today reflects the close and friendly relations between India and Argentina. Our two countries share a strong commitment to international cooperation, maritime safety, and the promotion of peace and stability across the world.
12. Ladies and Gentlemen,

I would also like to warmly acknowledge the presence of our vibrant Indian community in Argentina. Though you may live far from the shores of India, your emotional connection with the motherland remains strong. Your presence here today reflects your pride in India’s achievements and your enduring bond with our shared heritage.

13. Dear officers of IASV Triveni,

As you prepare to continue your remarkable journey in the coming days, please know that you carry with you not only the Tricolour of India, but also the hopes and admiration of millions of Indians and friends of India across the world.

14. Your courage on the high seas, your discipline in the face of challenge, and your unwavering commitment to duty remind us that with determination and teamwork, no ocean is too vast and no horizon too distant.
15. On behalf of the Government and people of India, the Embassy of India and all our friends gathered here today, I wish you fair winds, following seas, and a safe and successful voyage as you continue this historic circumnavigation of our planet.

May your journey continue to inspire generations to come.

Thank you.
Jai Hind.

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