In a momentous ceremony, Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff, officially flagged off the Navika Sagar Parikrama II expedition from the Ocean Sailing Node at INS Mandovi, Goa. This pioneering initiative marks the first-ever circumnavigation of the globe by Indian women in a double-handed sailing vessel. Two Women Naval Officers Lt Cdr Dilna K and Lt Cdr Roopa A embark on a historic voyage of circumnavigation onboard Indian Naval Sailing Vessel Tarini.
The event was attended by a distinguished gathering, including Vice Admiral V. Srinivas, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief (South); Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, Director General of Armed Forces Medical Services; and other senior naval officers, civilian dignitaries, and enthusiastic members of the naval community, both serving and retired. A special commemorative chart for the expedition was also unveiled during the ceremony.
Admiral Tripathi took a tour of the sailing vessel and interacted with the crew before the official cast-off. In his address, he highlighted the Sagar Parikrama as “the symbolic expression of devotion and a significant step in fostering maritime consciousness, embodying the spirit of Sashakt and Saksham India.” He acknowledged the visionary foresight of Late Vice Admiral M.P. Awati, who pioneered the idea of circumnavigation on sailboats, as well as the subsequent voyages of Capt. Dilip Donde and Cdr. Abhilash Tomy, showcasing seafaring skills on the global stage and commitment to the spirit of Nari Shakti.
The Navika Sagar Parikrama II expedition will cover over 21,600 nautical miles (approximately 40,000 kilometers) and is planned in five legs, with scheduled stopovers at four ports for replenishment and maintenance. This historic voyage not only showcases the talents of Indian women but also reinforces the nation’s commitment to maritime excellence.
