How is the Indian Navy Celebrating the Return of Women Officers After Their Historic Voyage?

New Delhi, May 27 (NationPress) The Indian Navy is poised to celebrate the remarkable achievements of the crew of Navika Sagar Parikrama II, who have successfully completed their journey around the globe aboard the Indian Naval Sailing Vessel Tarini.

In an impressive double-handed mode, the young women officers of the Indian Navy, Lt Cdr Roopa A and Lt Cdr Dilna K, are scheduled to arrive in Goa on May 29. This exceptional sailing adventure was launched from the Naval Ocean Sailing Node in Goa on October 2, 2024. Over the course of eight months, the pair, affectionately referred to as DilRoo, traversed approximately 25,400 nautical miles (around 50,000 km) across four continents, three oceans, and three Great Capes, enduring harsh weather conditions and treacherous seas, relying solely on sails and wind.

The Flag-in ceremony for this historic event will take place at Mormugao Port, Goa, presided over by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, formally concluding the circumnavigation. According to the Ministry of Defence, this expedition exemplifies India's maritime ambitions, highlighting the country's significance in global maritime activities and the Indian Navy's dedication to excellence and Nari Shakti, embodying the motto ‘Courageous Hearts Boundless Seas’.

The duo embarked on their journey as proud representatives of a resurgent India, making port calls in Fremantle (Australia), Lyttleton (New Zealand), Port Stanley (Falkland Islands), and Cape Town (South Africa). Throughout their voyage, they participated in various diplomatic and outreach activities, engaging with parliamentarians, the Indian diaspora, school children, naval cadets, and university faculty worldwide. They were notably honored as special invitees at the Western Australian Parliament in recognition of their achievements.

The ministry noted that their extraordinary accomplishments garnered praise from local communities, international sailing organizations, and foreign parliaments, serving as a symbol of women empowerment, maritime excellence, and national pride.

During their journey, the crew faced winds reaching up to 50 knots (93 km/h) along with tumultuous weather and freezing temperatures, testing their endurance, perseverance, and sailing skills. Each segment of the trip presented unique challenges, with the third leg from Lyttleton to Port Stanley proving particularly grueling, as they navigated through three cyclones and the perilous Drake Passage, successfully rounding Cape Horn.

This circumnavigation underscores the indomitable spirit, exceptional bravery, and determination of the officers despite the daunting conditions of the sea and nature, as stated by an official.

During the expedition, the crew had the privilege of engaging with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on the eve of International Women's Day. The minister congratulated them on their outstanding milestone and acknowledged the essential role of women in strengthening national security, reaffirming India's commitment to enhancing opportunities for women in the defense sector. Furthermore, Adm Dinesh Kumar Tripathi, the Chief of Naval Staff, also commended the crew on several occasions for their remarkable skills, professionalism, camaraderie, and teamwork.

As the nation eagerly anticipates the arrival of the resilient crew of Navika Sagar Parikrama II, this expedition represents a significant chapter in India's maritime legacy. The crew embodied the spirit of exploration and showcased their seafaring expertise on a global scale. This journey has been one of empowerment, innovation, and dedication to India's maritime heritage, paving the way for a brighter and more empowered future. It reaffirms the Indian Navy's commitment to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and accountability throughout the vast oceans of the world, added the official.