NEW DELHI, Sep 23 : As a part of second edition of Navika Sagar Parikrama expedition, two courageous women officers of the Indian Navy, Lt Commander Dilna K and Lt Commander Roopa A, will set out on an extraordinary mission to circumnavigate the world on October 2 in the Indian Naval Sailing Vessel Tarini.
This information was given by Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Vice Chief of Naval Staff, at an event held here on Monday.
The historic voyage will be flagged off from Naval Ocean Sailing Node, INS Mandovi, Goa.
Over a period of eight months, the duo will navigate more than 21,600 nautical miles (approx. 40,000 km) without any external assistance, relying solely on wind power. The circumnavigation highlights the exceptional valour, courage, and perseverance of the officers, who will face the rigours of high seas and extreme weather conditions, pushing the limits of human endurance.
The route will take them through some of the most treacherous waters, including the perilous passage around the three great Capes: Cape Leeuwin, Cape Horn, and the Cape of Good Hope.
The voyage is not just a testament to their personal bravery and skill but also a celebration of the Indian Navy’s commitment to Nari Shakti, showcasing their indomitable spirit and determination.
The expedition was conceived by the Indian Navy with the inaugural Navika Sagar Parikrama, the first ever Indian circumnavigation of the globe, by an all-women crew of six officers in 2017.
The second edition of the expedition will be an exceptional one, as they will become the first from India to accomplish such a feat in double-handed mode.
Earlier, Captain Dilip Donde (Retd.) was the first Indian to circumnavigate the globe in 2009 – 10. Subsequently, Cdr Abhilash Tomy (Retd.) was the first Asian skipper to participate in two circumnavigations and accomplished the rare feat of completing the Golden Globe Race in 2022.
The expedition is being conducted under the aegis of the Indian Naval Sailing Association, based at Naval Headquarters, New Delhi, and Ocean Sailing Node, Goa, under Southern Naval Command. Both the nodal centres will be coordinating the voyage in liaison with international maritime agencies and authorities.
Speaking on the occasion, Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Vice Chief of Naval Staff, described Navika Sagar Parikrama II as a journey of empowerment, innovation, and commitment to India’s maritime heritage while charting new paths for a brighter and empowered future.
He reaffirmed the Indian Navy’s pledge to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and responsibility, not just on our shores but across the vast expanse of the world’s oceans.
(UNI)
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