In a landmark moment for the Indian Navy and for women in uniform, Lieutenant Commander Dilna K and Lieutenant Commander Roopa returned to Goa on Saturday after successfully completing Navika Sagar Parikrama II, an ambitious eight-month circumnavigation mission aboard INSV Tarini.
Historic Achievement: Reaching Point Nemo
The most celebrated milestone of the journey was their arrival at Point Nemo, the Oceanic Pole of Inaccessibility—the most remote spot on Earth, over 2,600 km from the nearest landmass.
“It was a great and proud moment for us as we could fly our Indian flag and the Indian Navy’s flag at Point Nemo,” said Lt Cdr Dilna K.
This marks the first time Indian Navy women officers have reached Point Nemo, making it a historic maritime achievement.
Sailing Into the Storm to Make History
The crew encountered a critical decision en route—whether to divert away from an approaching storm or stay the course to reach Point Nemo.
“We decided to go to the Point and fly our flag there. It was risky, but we were determined to make it happen,” said Dilna, reflecting the grit and courage behind the mission.
A Promise Fulfilled: Rajnath Singh Flags In INSV Tarini
Their return to Mormugao Port was witnessed and celebrated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who had promised to welcome the team back personally.
“That was his promise to us during a video call on March 7, and he kept it. It was a very proud moment,” Dilna shared.
Lt Cdr Roopa recalled,
“He had called us in the middle of the ocean and said, ‘I’ll come to receive you in Goa.’ He fulfilled it. We were thrilled.”
Eight Months of Endurance and Transformation
The voyage, which spanned over eight months, tested the physical and mental endurance of the two officers.
“These 8 months have been a great learning experience, a life-transforming journey,” said Lt Cdr Roopa.
With no refrigerator on board, fresh supplies were limited, and the crew subsisted on simple Indian staples like rice and dal.
Symbol of Women Empowerment and National Pride
The expedition is a symbol of India’s commitment to empowering women in the armed forces, and the crew’s feat is already being celebrated as a milestone in maritime history.
“I am grateful to be an Indian. Today, women are getting more and more opportunities—they just need to be willing to take them,” said Roopa.
Conclusion: A Voyage of Grit, Glory, and Nari Shakti
From navigating isolation at Point Nemo, to braving storms and limited supplies, Lt Cdr Dilna and Lt Cdr Roopa’s mission aboard INSV Tarini is more than a maritime feat—it’s an inspiration to a generation. As India sails forward, the flags they hoisted at the world’s remotest point now symbolize courage, determination, and the unyielding spirit of Indian women in uniform.