Panaji: Lieutenant Commander Dilna K and Lieutenant Commander Roopa A, the two women officers of the Indian Navy on board the Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Tarini returned home triumphant after nearly two months of their transoceanic expedition.
The expedition was undertaken in double-handed mode by the two women officers. Their exceptional journey marks a historic milestone as they become the first from India to accomplish such a feat.
The two officers now prepare for their next monumental voyage, a circumnavigation of the globe (Sagar Parikrama – IV expedition) on INSV Tarini scheduled to commence in September this year. This remarkable achievement will not only inspire but also pave the way for future generations of personnel especially women in the Indian Navy to volunteer for challenging maritime adventure activities, the Ministry of Defence stated.
INSV Tarini reached the base port at Goa on April 21, 2024. It was flagged in by Commanding Officer INS Mandovi and Naval Station Commander North Goa at the boat pool of INS Mandovi, in the presence of naval personnel and families of Station Mandovi, symbolizing the collective achievement and camaraderie within the Indian Navy.
The expedition was flagged off from Goa by renowned circumnavigator and mentor Commander Abhilash Tomy (Retired) on February 28, 2024. After 22 days of navigating through the unpredictable elements of the Indian Ocean, INSV Tarini arrived at Port Louis, Mauritius, on March 21. This historic moment was celebrated with a series of events where the officers had the privilege of interacting with government officials from the Mauritius Coast Guard and the Indian High Commission. In a gesture of camaraderie and collaboration, the vessel also undertook a training sortie with personnel from the Mauritius Coast Guard, strengthening bilateral ties and fostering goodwill between the two maritime nations.
Following a hectic schedule at Port Louis, Lt Cdr Dilna K and Lt Cdr Roopa prepared to embark on their return journey to Goa. Departing on March 30, the officers faced continuous challenges posed by heavy winds, adverse sea states, and rough seas.
Their indomitable spirit and steadfast resolve propelled them forward, guiding INSV Tarini safely back to Goa yesterday.
The Ministry of Defence stated that their accomplishments underscore the Indian Navy’s commitment to promoting gender equality and empowering women in the maritime domain. Undeterred by the challenges encountered during their expedition, the officers demonstrated exceptional seamanship and resilience, embodying the spirit of adventure and exploration.
– global bihari bureau
