Indian Women Naval Officers Reach First Port in Australia on Global Circumnavigation Voyage

Indian Women Naval Officers Reach First Port in Australia on Global Circumnavigation Voyage

Context:

Two Indian women Navy officers, Lt. Cdr. Dilna K. and Lt. Cdr. Roopa A., arrived in Fremantle, Australia, on November 9 as the first stop of their global circumnavigation expedition aboard INSV Tarini.

  • The 39-day journey, covering 4,900 nautical miles from Goa, is part of Navika Sagar Parikrama-II, flagged off by Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi on October 2.

Relevance:
GS-03 (Internal security, Defence)

Key highlights:

  • INSV Tarini’s journey from Goa included crossing the Equator on October 16 and the Tropic of Capricorn on October 27.
  • The officers encountered diverse weather, with winds up to 40 knots and sea conditions rated at level six.
  • The vessel and crew were reported to be in good condition, and progress updates were closely monitored by Admiral Tripathi.
  • The crew was warmly welcomed in Fremantle by Indian and Australian dignitaries, with cultural performances arranged by the Tamil Association of Western Australia.
  • This historic expedition underscores India’s commitment to promoting women’s roles in defence and maritime activities.

About INSV Tarini

  • INSV Tarini is the second sailboat in the Indian Navy, following INSV Mhadei.
  • It was constructed at the Aquarius Shipyard in Goa.
  • After thorough sea trials, INSV Tarini was officially commissioned into the Indian Navy on February 18, 2017.
  • Tarini is notably recognised for its 2017 circumnavigation of the globe with an all-women officer crew in the iconic expedition, Navika Sagar Parikrama.