Goa, 02 October 2024 – The Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Tarini has embarked on a historic voyage for the second edition of the Navika Sagar Parikrama, a circumnavigation of the globe. The expedition was flagged off at the Ocean Sailing Node in INS Mandovi, Goa, by Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff.
In this remarkable journey, two women naval officers, Lt Cdr Dilna K and Lt Cdr Roopa A, will sail around the world in double-handed mode, a first in Indian maritime history. Their mission highlights India’s commitment to showcasing women's empowerment, symbolizing "Nari Shakti" (women power) in the maritime domain.
A Historic Milestone for the Indian Navy
The event was witnessed by senior naval officers, including Vice Admiral V Srinivas, FOCINC (South), Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, DG AFMS, and Vice Admiral Vineet McCarty, CPS, among others. The Chief of the Naval Staff, after releasing a special commemorative chart, interacted with the officers before they set sail.
In his speech, Admiral Tripathi praised the legacy of Indian naval circumnavigation, from pioneers like Late Vice Admiral MP Swati to recent voyages by Capt Dilip Donde, Cdr Abhilash Tomy, and the first Navika Sagar Parikrama. He highlighted the courage, confidence, and conviction of Lt Cdr Dilna and Lt Cdr Roopa, calling them "the flag bearers of a resurgent India."
The Global Voyage
The voyage will cover more than 21,600 nautical miles (around 40,000 kilometers) and will be completed in five legs, with stops at four ports for rest and repairs. The planned route is:
Goa to Fremantle, Australia
Fremantle to Lyttleton, New Zealand
Lyttleton to Port Stanley, Falkland Islands
Port Stanley to Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town to Goa
INSV Tarini, a 56-foot sailing vessel built by Aquarius Shipyard Ltd, has already sailed over 66,000 nautical miles and was part of the first Navika Sagar Parikrama in 2017. The vessel has undergone recent maintenance and equipment upgrades to ensure it is ready for this challenging voyage.
Both Lt Cdr Dilna K and Lt Cdr Roopa A have trained rigorously over the past three years, covering 38,000 nautical miles and preparing under the mentorship of Cdr Abhilash Tomy (Retd). They are fully equipped to handle the many challenges they will face at sea.
The Indian Navy wishes the officers a successful journey as they carry India's flag across the world's oceans, spreading the message of "Courageous Hearts, Boundless Seas."
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