Team Herald
PANJIM: The historic voyage of two women Indian Navy officers Lt Cdr Dilna K and Lt Cdr Roopa will be flagged off from Naval Ocean Sailing Node, INS Mandovi, Goa from October 2. Over a period of eight months, the duo will navigate more than 21,600 nautical miles (approximately 40,000 km) without any external assistance, relying solely on wind power.
Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Tarini would sail on this challenging expedition with two courageous women officers. The circumnavigation highlights the exceptional valour, courage and perseverance of the officers, who will face rigours of high seas, extreme weather conditions, pushing 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. The voyage is not just a testament to their personal bravery and skill, but also a celebration of the Indian Navy's commitment to Nari Shakti showcasing their indomitable spirit and determination.
The expedition was conceived by the Indian Navy with the inaugural Navika Sagar Parikrama, the first ever Indian circumnavigation of the globe by an all women crew of six officers in 2017.
The second edition of the expedition will be an exceptional one as they will become the first from India to accomplish such a feat in double handed mode.
Earlier, Capt Dilip Donde was the first Indian to circumnavigate the globe in 2009-2010. Subsequently, Cdr Abhilash Tomy was the first Asian skipper to participate in two circumnavigations and accomplished the rare feat of completing the Golden Globe Race in 2022. Significantly, Cdr Tomy has been closely associated with the training of both the officers as the official mentor.