Historic first in Indian Maritime: M.V. Sindhu sails with all-women bridge leadership
KOLKATA : In a landmark moment for India’s maritime sector, M.V. Sindhu etched its name in history by becoming the first Indian-flag vessel to sail with both a women Master and a women Pilot commanding operations on the bridge.
Under the command of Capt. Meera Uppadhaya, Master of the vessel, and Ms. Reshma Nilofer Visalakshi, Pilot, the ship departed from the Khidderpore Docks in Kolkata in the early hours of 21 April 2026. The vessel is currently en route to Port Blair, marking not just a routine voyage, but a defining milestone in the journey toward gender equality in maritime leadership.
This pioneering achievement highlights the evolving face of India’s shipping industry, where women are increasingly taking on critical operational and leadership roles traditionally dominated by men. The seamless coordination and professional excellence demonstrated during the vessel’s departure underscore the high standards of competence and training among India’s महिला maritime professionals.
The occasion has been widely recognized as a testament to the progressive policies and sustained efforts by maritime institutions, training academies, and regulatory bodies working to promote diversity and inclusivity at sea. It also reflects the broader vision of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways to foster an equitable and future-ready maritime ecosystem.
Industry stakeholders have hailed the voyage as a powerful symbol of empowerment, sending a strong message to aspiring seafarers across the country. As more women step into commanding roles on ships and in port operations, such milestones are expected to accelerate the transformation of the maritime workforce.
This historic sailing of M.V. Sindhu not only celebrates individual excellence but also reinforces India’s commitment to inclusive growth in the maritime domain—setting a precedent and inspiring a new generation of women to navigate the oceans with confidence and leadership.
