The Indian Navy is all set to welcome the triumphant crew of Navika Sagar Parikrama II on the successful completion of their historic circumnavigation of the globe onboard the Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Tarini. This extraordinary sailing expedition, undertaken in the challenging double-handed mode by Lt Cdr Roopa A and Lt Cdr Dilna K, will culminate with their arrival at Mormugao Port, Goa on 29 May 2025. The voyage, which commenced on 02 October 2024 from the Naval Ocean Sailing Node (NOSN), Goa, marks a rare and remarkable achievement in maritime history. The Flag-in ceremony will be presided over by the Hon’ble Raksha Mantri, Shri Rajnath Singh, signifying the formal conclusion of this monumental journey.
Over a period of eight months, the officers covered an astounding 25,400 nautical miles (approximately 50,000 kilometers), navigating across four continents, three oceans, and rounding the three Great Capes. The expedition, powered solely by wind and sail, demonstrates India’s growing stature in global maritime activities and showcases the Indian Navy’s commitment to operational excellence and gender empowerment. Symbolizing the motto “Courageous Hearts, Boundless Seas,” the mission also reinforces the spirit of Nari Shakti in India’s armed forces.
Popularly known as #DilRoo, the sailing duo undertook port calls at Fremantle (Australia), Lyttelton (New Zealand), Port Stanley (Falkland Islands), and Cape Town (South Africa). These visits included diplomatic outreach and engagement with local communities, schoolchildren, university faculty, naval cadets, and members of the Indian diaspora. In a rare and prestigious gesture, the officers were honoured as special invitees at the Western Australian Parliament, where their contributions to maritime excellence and women’s leadership were widely appreciated.
The voyage tested the limits of human endurance and sailing skill, with the officers encountering winds up to 50 knots (93 kmph), rough sea states, and extremely cold conditions. Among the toughest phases was the third leg from Lyttelton to Port Stanley, during which the crew navigated through three cyclones, crossed the notorious Drake Passage, and successfully rounded Cape Horn. This leg of the journey remains a testament to the sailors’ resilience, courage, and seamanship in one of the world’s most treacherous maritime regions.
During their journey, the officers had the opportunity to interact with Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh on the eve of International Women’s Day. He congratulated them on their exemplary achievement and acknowledged the critical role of women in national security. The interaction also reaffirmed India’s commitment to expanding opportunities for women in the defence forces. Additionally, Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff, interacted with the crew at multiple stages and commended their dedication, teamwork, and professionalism.
As the nation eagerly awaits the return of the resilient Navika Sagar Parikrama II crew, their journey stands as a beacon of national pride, maritime excellence, and women-led leadership. Their achievement not only furthers India’s maritime legacy but also inspires the next generation to explore uncharted waters with courage and conviction. This circumnavigation reaffirms the Indian Navy’s pledge to uphold the highest standards of professionalism across the vast expanse of the world’s oceans and showcases India’s capability and spirit on the global stage.
