The Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Tarini returned triumphant to her base port at Goa on 21 Apr 24 after a historic transoceanic expedition of nearly two months duration, officials said on Wednesday.
The expedition was undertaken in double-handed mode by Lt Cdr Dilna K and Lt Cdr Roopa A, women officers of the Indian Navy.
Their exceptional journey marks a historic milestone as they become the first from India to accomplish such a feat.
The expedition was Flagged off from Goa by renowned circumnavigator and their mentor Cdr Abhilash Tomy (Retd) on 28 Feb 24. After 22 days of navigating through the unpredictable elements of the Indian Ocean, INSV Tarini arrived at Port Louis, Mauritius, on 21 Mar 24, the statement said.
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 embarked, 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 the officers prepared to embark on their return journey to Goa. Departing on 30 Mar 24, 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 on 21 Apr 24.
Their accomplishments underscore the Indian Navys 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.
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 Sep this year.
This remarkable achievement will not only inspire but also pave way for future generations of personnel especially women in the Indian Navy to volunteer for challenging maritime adventure activities.
INSV Tarini was flagged in by Commanding Officer INS Mandovi and Naval Station Commander North Goa at the boat pool of INS Mandovi, in presence of naval personnel and families of Station Mandovi, symbolizing the collective achievement and camaraderie within the Indian Navy.
