In a remarkable milestone for both the Indian Navy and global gender representation in maritime fields, two women naval officers have set the stage for a new era. Lieutenant Commander Dilna K. and Lieutenant Commander Roopa A. embarked on a groundbreaking expedition of circumnavigation aboard the 56-foot Indian naval sailing vessel INSV Tarini. Their journey commenced on October 2 from INS Mandovi in Goa and included a challenging 38-day leg that concluded when they arrived at their first port of call in Fremantle, Western Australia, on November 9.
On a recent Wednesday, the officers were honored with an invitation for tea at the Western Australia Parliament House. There, legislators and officials congregated to hear about their remarkable sailing experiences. Seated in the presidential gallery, the officers received accolades from the assembly, marking another significant recognition of their achievements.
During the session, Sue Ellery, the Leader of the House and Minister for Finance, Commerce, and Women’s Interests, highlighted the duo’s adventurous spirit. She relayed updates from their journey, stating, “I am advised that over the 4,900 nautical miles of their journey so far, they have sailed alongside Humpback whales, encountered high winds, and experienced the significantly cool climate as they sailed south… they are true trailblazers, and their circumnavigation will undoubtedly inspire many girls and young women to consider roles in the Indian Navy.”
The expedition, titled ‘Navika Sagar Parikrama II,’ aims to promote women’s empowerment, uphold gender equality, and enhance oceanic research while showcasing Indian maritime traditions. This mission marks a historic first as it is the inaugural circumnavigation of the globe by Indian women onboard a sailing vessel using a double-handed approach.
The journey is structured into five legs with four planned stopovers. Following their Fremantle stop, the INSV Tarini is scheduled to sail to Lyttleton in New Zealand, Port Stanley in the Falkland Islands, and finally Cape Town in South Africa, before returning to Goa.
Supporting their formidable undertaking is a mentorship program led by Cdr Abhilash Tomy (Retd), who has been guiding them since August 23. The officers have undergone rigorous psychological conditioning and training in various essential skills, including seamanship, meteorology, navigation, survival techniques, and medical care at sea.
This ambitious project is spearheaded by the Indian Navy and involves collaboration with several organizations, including the National Institute of Oceanography (NIO), Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Sagar Defence, Defence Food Research Laboratory (DFRL), Transform Rural India Foundation (TRIF), and the Piramal Foundation. Their collective efforts highlight a commitment to not only advancing naval prowess but also fostering a more inclusive environment in maritime professions.
