Indian Navy’s Women Officers Set for Historic Global Circumnavigation on INSV Tarini

Mumbai, India – In a historic step forward for India's maritime legacy, two Indian Navy women officers, Lieutenant Commander Roopa A and Lieutenant Commander Dilna K, are preparing to embark on an extraordinary circumnavigation of globe aboard Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Tarini. This ambitious expedition, titled Navika Sagar Parikrama II, will see se officers navigate challenging oceans of world, marking a significant milestone in Indian maritime history and promoting gender equality in high seas. officers have been rigorously preparing for this expedition for past three years, honing ir skills through various trans-oceanic and double-handed sailing expeditions.

Navika Sagar Parikrama II is second edition of India's women-led global circumnavigation, following successful journey of first Navika Sagar Parikrama in 2017-18. mission is not just a test of seamanship but a reflection of India's growing prominence in global maritime affairs. Indian Navy, through its dedication to revitalizing art of sailing, has preserved maritime heritage of country while promoting seamanship skills through training vessels such as INS Tarangini and INS Sudarshini, and expeditions aboard INSV Mhei and Tarini. This latest endeavour continues this rich legacy.  

Preparation and Training  

Lieutenant Commanders Roopa A and Dilna K have built a formidable sailing portfolio in recent years. Last year, y were part of six-member crew for a trans-oceanic voyage from Goa to Rio de Janeiro via Cape Town and back, covering thousands of nautical miles. Following this, y completed an arduous Goa-Port Blair-Goa voyage in double-handed mode. In early 2024, y also undertook a sortie from Goa to Port Louis, Mauritius, furr sharpening ir skills.

To meet extreme demands of circumnavigation, officers have undergone extensive training in seamanship, navigation, and endurance. ir mentorship comes from none or than Commander Abhilash Tomy (Retd.), decorated naval officer and hero of Golden Globe Race, known for his circumnavigation feats. ir training has equipped m with physical, mental, and tactical skills necessary to face one of most gruelling challenges on ocean. 

Significance of Expedition  

circumnavigation of INSV Tarini is much more than just a maritime venture; it represents Indian Navy’s forward-thinking approach to gender equality and operational excellence. It underscores Navy's commitment to expanding role of women in all aspects of military service, particularly in demanding roles such as ocean sailing.  

This voyage will require officers to showcase extreme endurance, resourcefulness, and skill, as y sail through some of most dangerous waters in world, braving unpredictable wear, high seas, and long periods of isolation. expedition also exemplifies spirit of Atmanirbhar Bharat, India's drive for self-reliance, as vessel and its crew are representative of indigenous capabilities and talent.   

Logo Unveiling: Navika Sagar Parikrama II  

Indian Navy has also unveiled official Logo of Navika Sagar Parikrama II, symbolizing significance of this global expedition. octagonal shape at centre reflects Indian Navy, with sun representing celestial navigation and compass serving as a guide for sailors through perilous waters. sailboat, navigating ocean’s vastness, is a powerful metaphor for resilience and spirit of venture that defines Indian Navy’s seafaring trition.

all-women crew, epitomized in this symbol, highlights Navy’s commitment to fostering gender equality and empowering women in every facet of naval operations. This expedition is not just about crossing oceans but about breaking barriers and redefining tritional norms in one of most demanding professions.