The Indian Navy is all set to embark on the extraordinary mission of circumnavigating the globe with the second edition of Navika Sagar Parikrama expedition comprising two women officers. A curtain raiser event presided by Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Vice Chief of Naval Staff was held at here on Monday.
Indian Naval Sailing Vessel Tarini will sail on this challenging expedition with two courageous women officers -Lt Commander Dilna K and Lt Commander Roopa A on October two.
The historic voyage will be flagged off from Naval Ocean Sailing Node, 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 rigours of high seas, 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 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 was the first Indian to circumnavigate the globe in 2009 -10.
Subsequently, Commander Abhilash Tomy was the first Asian skipper to participate in two circumnavigations and accomplished the rare feat of completing the Golden Globe Race in 2022. Significantly, Tomy has been closely associated with the training of both the officers as the official mentor.
Speaking on the occassion, the Vice Chief 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 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.
During the interaction, both the officers shared their experiences and expressed extreme confidence for the forthcoming expedition embodying the spirit of resilience and indomitable spirit.
Navika Sagar Parikrama II is more than a voyage; it underlines the essence of maritime prowess, self reliance and commitment to a greater cause.
