The second edition of the Navika Sagar Parikrama, a landmark event in India's naval history, was officially flagged off from the Ocean Sailing Node at INS Mandovi, Goa. Two women naval officers, Lieutenant Commanders Dilna K and Roopa A, embarked on an ambitious voyage of circumnavigating the globe aboard the Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Tarini, marking a significant milestone in the country's maritime achievements.
The expedition, titled “Navika Sagar Parikrama II” is India's first circumnavigation by women in a double-handed sailing mode, symbolizing the strength of women in the maritime domain and the Indian Navy's commitment to promoting women's empowerment. Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, led the flag-off ceremony in the presence of senior naval officials, including Vice Admiral V Srinivas, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief (South), and Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, Director General Armed Forces Medical Services.
Speaking at the event, Admiral Tripathi emphasized the significance of the Sagar Parikrama in fostering maritime consciousness and its embodiment of a strong and capable India. He acknowledged the pioneering efforts of the late Vice Admiral MP Awati, whose vision inspired this series of circumnavigations, as well as past voyages by Capt Dilip Donde, Cdr Abhilash Tomy, and the first Navika Sagar Parikrama in 2017. The Admiral praised the crew for their courage and preparation, wishing them "fair winds and following seas" as they represent India on the global maritime stage.
The expedition will cover over 21,600 nautical miles (approximately 40,000 kilometers) and will be completed in five legs, with stops at Fremantle, Australia; Lyttleton, New Zealand; Port Stanley, Falkland Islands; and Cape Town, South Africa. INSV Tarini, a 56-foot sailing vessel inducted into the Navy in 2017, has already logged over 66,000 nautical miles, including participation in the first Navika Sagar Parikrama.
The vessel is equipped with state-of-the-art navigation, safety, and communication systems and has undergone recent upgrades. Both officers, Lt Cdr Dilna K and Lt Cdr Roopa A, have trained rigorously for over three years, covering over 38,000 nautical miles, and received mentorship from retired Cdr Abhilash Tomy. Their training included seamanship, navigation, survival techniques, and psychological conditioning to prepare for the challenges they will face at sea.
This historic voyage not only demonstrates the Indian Navy’s dedication to maritime excellence but also serves as a powerful symbol of “Nari Shakti”, or women’s power, in the nation’s growing maritime influence.(pr)