New Delhi [India]: As part of the Navika Sagar Parikrama II, Indian Navy officers Lt. Cdr. Dilna and Lt. Cdr. Roopa sailing aboard INSV Tarini extended heartfelt greetings on the occasion of International Women’s Day. The duo is currently on a mission to sail around the world, showcasing women’s empowerment and resilience.
"Stand together, Stand independent," Sailors of INSV Tarini extend wishes on International Women's Day
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#WATCH | On the eve of Women's Day, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh virtually interacts with two Indian Navy women officers, Lt Cdr Roopa A and Lt Cdr Dilna K, who are on a globe-circumnavigating expedition, Navika Sagar Parikrama II, onboard INSV Tarini.
— ANI (@ANI) March 7, 2025
He says, "I congratulate… pic.twitter.com/PDRAUadIuR
In a video message, Lt. Cdr. Dilna expressed her admiration for women worldwide, stating, “To all the strong women in my life and around the world, wishing you all a very happy International Women’s Day. Today we celebrate our strength and resilience. Each one of you has inspired me and motivated me and made a difference in my life. Let us remember that our voice matters, our story matters, and our presence matters. Never let anyone bring you down. Stand together, independent, respectful and supportive, as I sail along with Roopa. We remind ourselves of the bar of women’s friendship and strength.”
Her fellow officer, Lt. Cdr. Roopa, also shared an empowering message, saying, “To all the mothers, aunts, friends, and colleagues, you have made a difference in my life, ignited a spark in me that has made me chase my dreams. You have all given me the strength and courage to grow from a girl to a woman and break stereotypes along the way. I want you to remember your part and your potential. Prioritize yourself and everything will fall into your place.”
Navika Sagar Parikrama II is a testament to the changing times and the Indian Navy’s commitment to women’s empowerment. The expedition, which was flagged off in October 2024, is an all-women circumnavigation attempt by the Indian Navy. The two officers have demonstrated remarkable courage and determination, inspiring countless women across India.
#WATCH | International Women's Day 2025 – Navika Sagar Parikrama 2 | Message from the South Atlantic Ocean
— ANI (@ANI) March 8, 2025
Lt Cdr Dilna & Lt Cdr Roopa stand the test of tides, sailing through storms and proving that the oceans, like the world, have no limits for their courage and that courage… pic.twitter.com/dIU6m2BCmh
According to a statement from the Indian Navy, “They have braved storms and survived violent seas, bearing the dreams of the whole nation. While the world watches with awe, the two officers have shown the true spirit of womanhood and the heights that women can achieve. Dilna and Roopa, with their brave effort, will continue to inspire thousands of Indian women who aspire to make their mark in history.”
The journey has been far from easy. On February 18, INSV Tarini reached Port Stanley, successfully completing the third and most challenging phase of their expedition. This leg of the journey included navigating through three cyclones, the remote Point Nemo—known as the Oceanic Pole of Inaccessibility—and the perilous Drake Passage before rounding the infamous Cape Horn.
The officers departed from Port Stanley on March 6 and are now headed towards Cape Town as they continue their mission to circumnavigate the globe.