Two women Navy officers to embark on circumnavigation mission on October 2

The Indian Navy is gearing up for the second edition of its landmark global circumnavigation mission, Navika Sagar Parikrama II. A curtain raiser event, presided over by Vice-Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Vice-Chief of Naval Staff (VCNS), was held in New Delhi on Monday, setting the stage for the ambitious expedition.
The Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Tarini will set sail on this challenging voyage with two intrepid women officers—Lt Cdr Dilna K and Lt Cdr Roopa A on October 2. The expedition will be flagged off from the Naval Ocean Sailing Node at INS Mandovi, Goa.
Over the course of eight months, the officers will navigate an impressive 21,600 nautical miles without external assistance, relying solely on wind power. This circumnavigation will test their endurance as they face the rigours of high seas, extreme weather, and the treacherous waters surrounding the three great capes—Cape Leeuwin, Cape Horn, and the Cape of Good Hope.
The voyage is a testament to the officers’ exceptional courage and perseverance, as well as the Indian Navy’s commitment to Nari Shakti (women empowerment), showcasing the resilience and determination of women in maritime challenges.
The Navika Sagar Parikrama was first conceived in 2017 when an all-women crew of six Indian Navy officers successfully circumnavigated the globe. This second edition marks a new milestone, as it will be the first time any Indian crew accomplishes such a feat in double-handed mode.
Lt Cdr Dilna and Lt Cdr Roopa will carry forward a legacy established by Captain Dilip Donde, the first Indian to circumnavigate the globe in 2009-10, and Cdr Abhilash Tomy, who became the first Asian skipper to complete the prestigious Golden Globe Race in 2022.
Cdr Tomy has been a key figure in training both officers, serving as their mentor for this expedition.
The expedition is conducted under the aegis of the Indian Naval Sailing Association based at Naval Headquarters, New Delhi, and the Ocean Sailing Node in Goa, part of the Southern Naval Command. These nodal centers will coordinate the voyage in close liaison with international maritime agencies and authorities, ensuring the safe and smooth progress of the mission.
At the curtain raiser event, VCNS Vice-Admiral Krishna Swaminathan praised Navika Sagar Parikrama II as a symbol of women’s empowerment, innovation, and India’s maritime heritage.
“This expedition is not just about sailing—it’s a journey of empowerment, charting new paths for a brighter and more empowered future. It reaffirms the Indian Navy’s commitment to uphold the highest standards of professionalism across the world’s oceans, “said the Vice-Admiral.
A short film showcasing the preparatory expeditions and rigorous training undertaken by the officers was screened at the event, offering a glimpse into the demanding journey ahead.
During their interaction with the media, both Lt Cdr Dilna and Lt Cdr Roopa expressed their confidence and readiness for the upcoming voyage.
“This expedition will push our limits, but we are fully prepared, both mentally and physically,” said Lt Cdr Dilna. “We’re ready to take on the challenges of the high seas, with the experience and training we’ve gained over the years,” added Lt Cdr Roopa.
Navika Sagar Parikrama II is not merely a voyage—it embodies the essence of maritime prowess, self-reliance, and dedication to a greater cause. It symbolises the spirit of adventure, determination, and the important role of women in the Indian Navy, as these two officers prepare to write a new chapter in India’s maritime history.