The Indian Navy is all set to welcome the triumphant all women crew of Navika Sagar Parikrama II on successful completion of circumnavigation of the Globe onboard Indian Naval Sailing Vessel Tarini, Defence Ministry said here on Tuesday. Accomplishing this rare feat in double-handed mode, Lt Commander Roopa A and Lt Commander Dilna K are set to touch the shores of Goa on May 29.
Over a period of eight months, the Naval duo covered a distance of 25,400 nm (approx 50,000km) across four continents, three oceans and three Great Capes, braving extreme weather conditions and challenging seas relying solely on sails and wind power. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will preside over the welcome ceremony at Goa. This extraordinary sailing expedition was flagged off from Naval Ocean Sailing Node, Goa on October two, last year.
The duo commenced their circumnavigation with port calls at Fremantle (Australia), Lyttleton (New Zealand), Port Stanley (Falkland) and Cape Town (South Africa).
The officers engaged in numerous diplomatic and outreach engagements, interacting with parliamentarians, Indian diaspora, school children, Naval cadets and university faculty across the globe. In a rare gesture, they were honoured as special invitees at the Western Australian Parliament in recognition of their achievements.
The crew encountered winds up to 50 knots (93 kmph) coupled with stormy weather conditions and extremely cold temperatures during the journey, setting the ultimate test of human endurance, perseverance and sailing skills. Though each leg had its own challenges, the third leg of the journey from Lyttleton to Port Stanley was one of the most arduous. The crew encountered three cyclones, navigated through the treacherous Drake Passage and successfully rounded Cape Horn. The circumnavigation highlights the unwavering spirit, exceptional valour, courage and perseverance of the officers amidst challenging conditions of the sea and nature.
