Indian Navy’s Brave Women Officers Set Sail on Navika Sagar Parikrama II
The Indian Navy is launching the second edition of Navika Sagar Parikrama, an extraordinary circumnavigation mission, on October 2. The event was presided over by Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Vice Chief of Naval Staff, in New Delhi.
Meet the Courageous Officers
Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Tarini will embark on this challenging expedition with two courageous women officers–Lt Cdr Dilna K and Lt Cdr Roopa A. The historic voyage will be flagged off from the Naval Ocean Sailing Node at INS Mandovi, Goa.
The Journey
Over a period of eight months, the duo will sail 21,600 nautical miles without any external assistance, relying solely on wind power. The circumnavigation will showcase the exceptional valour, courage, and perseverance of the officers as they face the rigours of the high seas, extreme weather conditions, and push 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.
Historical Significance
The expedition was conceived by the Indian Navy with the inaugural Navika Sagar Parikrama, the first Indian circumnavigation of the globe, by an all-women crew of six officers in 2017. The second edition is unique as it will be the first time two officers from India will attempt such a feat in a double-handed mode.
Previously, Capt. Dilip Donde became the first Indian to circumnavigate the globe in 2009-10, followed by Commander Abhilash Tomy, the first Asian skipper to complete two circumnavigations, including the Golden Globe Race in 2022. Notably, Cdr Abhilash Tomy has closely mentored both officers.
Support and Coordination
The expedition is being conducted under the aegis of the Indian Naval Sailing Association, based at Naval Headquarters in New Delhi, and the Ocean Sailing Node, Goa, under the Southern Naval Command. Both nodal centres will coordinate the voyage in liaison with international maritime agencies and authorities.
Words from the Vice Chief of Naval Staff
Speaking on the occasion, the VCNS 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 the Indian Navy’s pledge to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and responsibility, not just within India’s waters but across the vast expanse of the world’s oceans.
Final Preparations
A short film highlighting various aspects of the voyage, including preparatory expeditions and the crew’s training, was screened during the event. During the interaction, both officers shared their experiences and expressed their utmost confidence in the upcoming expedition, embodying the spirit of resilience and indomitable courage.
Navika Sagar Parikrama II is more than just a voyage; it underscores India’s maritime prowess, self-reliance, and commitment to a greater cause.
Doubts Revealed
Indian Navy -: The Indian Navy is the naval branch of the Indian Armed Forces. It protects India’s maritime borders and helps during emergencies at sea.
Navika Sagar Parikrama -: Navika Sagar Parikrama is a mission where women officers of the Indian Navy sail around the world. ‘Parikrama’ means ‘circumnavigation’ or ‘going around’.
Lt Cdr -: Lt Cdr stands for Lieutenant Commander, which is a rank in the Indian Navy. It is a position of responsibility and leadership.
Nautical miles -: A nautical mile is a unit of distance used in sea and air navigation. It is equal to about 1.85 kilometers.
INS Mandovi -: INS Mandovi is a naval base in Goa, India. ‘INS’ stands for Indian Naval Ship, and it is where the journey will start.
Treacherous waters -: Treacherous waters are dangerous parts of the sea. They can have strong currents, big waves, and other hazards.
Women’s empowerment -: Women’s empowerment means giving women the power and opportunities to make their own decisions and achieve their goals. It is about equality and respect for women.