Navika Sagar Parikrama II [Current Affairs]

Navika Sagar Parikrama II, led by Indian Navy officers Lt Cdr Roopa A and Lt Cdr Dilna K, is set to continue India’s rich sailing tradition with a historic all-women expedition to circumnavigate the globe aboard INSV Tarini. This voyage celebrates maritime skill and gender equality, showcasing the Indian Navy’s commitment to preserving maritime heritage and promoting seamanship. Both officers have been training rigorously for three years, accumulating thousands of nautical miles, and were mentored by Cdr Abhilash Tomy (Retd.).

Their previous expeditions include journeys from Goa to Rio de Janeiro and back, and from Goa to Port Blair and Mauritius. The logo of the expedition, unveiled by the Indian Navy, represents the spirit of adventure and resilience, with symbols including the sun, compass, and a sailboat. This circumnavigation will highlight India’s growing maritime prominence and dedication to gender equality.

Key Highlights of Navika Sagar Parikrama II

Participants: Two Indian Navy women officers – Lt Cdr Roopa A and Lt Cdr Dilna K.

Preparation: Three years of rigorous training, including previous trans-oceanic expeditions.

Mentorship: Guided by Golden Globe Race hero, Cdr Abhilash Tomy (Retd.).

Logo Significance: The octagonal Navy emblem, sun, compass, and sailboat symbolize Indian Navy’s maritime spirit.

Mission Goals: To promote seamanship, maritime heritage, and gender equality through a challenging circumnavigation of the globe.

Navika Sagar Parikrama I (2017-2018)

Participants: Six-member all-women Indian Navy crew.

Duration: 254 days, from 10 September 2017 to 21 May 2018.

Port Calls: Fremantle (Australia), Lyttelton (New Zealand), Port Stanley (Falkland Islands), Cape Town (South Africa), and a technical halt at Port Louis (Mauritius).

Distance Covered: 21,600 nautical miles (40,000 km).

Legacy: Featured in the documentary Tarini and inspired National Geographic’s “Girls Who Sailed” campaign, promoting stories of determination.

Key Highlights

Officers and Expedition: Lt Cdr Roopa A and Lt Cdr Dilna K, previously part of a six-member crew, will now attempt a global circumnavigation as a duo.

Training: They have completed multiple trans-oceanic voyages, covering thousands of nautical miles and preparing under the guidance of Cdr Abhilash Tomy, a renowned circumnavigator.

Symbolism: The logo for the expedition represents the Indian Navy, sun, compass, and a sailboat, symbolizing adventure and resilience, with the all-women crew reflecting gender equality and excellence.

Background

Navika Sagar Parikrama I: The first expedition in 2017-2018 saw an all-women crew complete a 254-day global voyage covering 21,600 nautical miles, passing through 4 ports and 3 oceans, showcasing Nari Shakti and India’s maritime prowess.

Achievements: The first crew was awarded the Nari Shakti Puraskar and the Nau Sena Medal for completing this challenging voyage, representing women empowerment and India’s “Make in India” initiative.