Defence Minister Rajnath Singh presided over a grand flag-in ceremony at Mormugao Port today, welcoming Indian Navy officers Lieutenant Commander Roopa A and Lieutenant Commander Dilna K after their remarkable eight-month global circumnavigation aboard the Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Tarini. This unprecedented journey saw the duo travel approximately 50,000 kilometers, crossing four continents and three oceans, marking a historic achievement in India’s maritime narrative.
The expedition, dubbed Navika Sagar Parikrama II, launched on October 2, 2024, with Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi flagging off the vessel from the Naval Ocean Sailing Node in Goa. In a departure from the first Navika Sagar Parikrama (2017-2018)—which featured a six-member all-women crew—this latest journey was uniquely undertaken by just two officers, showcasing their exceptional skills, resilience, and teamwork. The officers made notable stops at Fremantle (Australia), Lyttelton (New Zealand), Port Stanley (Falkland Islands), Cape Town (South Africa), and Mauritius before ultimately returning to Goa.
Over the course of the 240-day voyage, Lieutenant Commander Roopa A and Lieutenant Commander Dilna K navigated some of the globe’s most challenging maritime areas, including the notoriously treacherous Drake Passage and the waters surrounding Cape Horn. They faced severe weather conditions, enduring three cyclones and wind gusts reaching up to 50 knots. Their success not only highlights the Indian Navy’s commitment to promoting gender equality but also underscores India’s growing maritime capabilities.
The INSV Tarini itself, a cruising sloop constructed at the Aquarius Shipyard in Divar, Goa, was commissioned in 2017 and has since covered over 85,000 nautical miles in service. The expedition also contributed to scientific advancements through collaborations with various organizations, including the National Institute of Oceanography, which focused on studying marine microplastics, and the Wildlife Institute of India, which investigated mega fauna. Additionally, the journey involved the Defence Food Research Laboratory, which worked on creating pre-cooked Indian meals tailored for prolonged voyages.
During the ceremony, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauded the officers for their courage, determination, and perseverance, emphasizing the Indian Navy’s role in empowering women and driving innovation. The event drew attendance from senior naval officials, local dignitaries, and members of the Indian diaspora, all of whom gathered to celebrate the crew’s extraordinary accomplishments.
Following this ceremonial flag-in, the Defence Minister is set to visit INS Vikrant in the Arabian Sea to engage with naval personnel.
This historic voyage undertaken by INSV Tarini and its crew embodies the rich maritime heritage of India and reflects the unwavering spirit of its naval officers, serving as an inspiration for future generations to strive for excellence and venture into uncharted waters.
