“Courageous Hearts, Boundless Seas” — a motto that now echoes through the annals of Indian maritime history.
🌊 A Historic Journey Begins
On October 2, 2024, as India celebrated Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary, two Indian Navy officers—Lieutenant Commander Roopa A from Puducherry and Lieutenant Commander Dilna K from Kozhikode—embarked on a groundbreaking mission: to circumnavigate the globe in a double-handed sailing expedition aboard the INSV Tarini. This endeavor, named Navika Sagar Parikrama II, was flagged off from INS Mandovi in Goa by Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, symbolizing India’s maritime aspirations and commitment to gender equality .
⛵ The Voyage: Challenges and Triumphs
Over eight months, the duo navigated approximately 23,400 nautical miles, facing the formidable challenges of the open sea. Their route included stops at Fremantle (Australia), Lyttelton (New Zealand), Port Stanley (Falkland Islands), and Cape Town (South Africa), before returning to Goa .
The journey tested their endurance and resilience. They braved treacherous waters, including the notorious Drake Passage and Cape Horn, known for extreme winds and towering waves. The duo also faced three cyclones and crossed Point Nemo, the oceanic pole of inaccessibility .
Throughout the voyage, they conducted scientific research in collaboration with the National Institute of Oceanography and the Wildlife Institute of India, studying marine microplastics and large sea mammals. They also tested customized pre-cooked Indian meals developed by the Defence Food Research Laboratory .
🌟 Inspiring a Nation
Lt Cdr Roopa A and Lt Cdr Dilna K’s successful circumnavigation marks a significant milestone in India’s maritime history. Their achievement not only showcases the capabilities of women in the armed forces but also serves as an inspiration for countless others. The Indian Navy’s initiative underscores its commitment to fostering gender equality and excellence.
Their return to Goa on May 29, 2025, was met with widespread acclaim, with Defense Minister Rajnath Singh presiding over the flag-in ceremony at Mormugao Port .
🚀 A Legacy Set in Sail
The voyage of Lt Cdr Roopa A and Lt Cdr Dilna K aboard INSV Tarini stands as a testament to human determination and the spirit of exploration. Their journey not only advanced scientific research and maritime cooperation but also broke barriers, setting a precedent for future generations. As the sails of INSV Tarini caught the wind, they carried with them the hopes and aspirations of a nation, charting a course toward a more inclusive and adventurous future.
