Fremantle, Australia: The Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Tarini departed from Fremantle today at 8:30 AM IST (11:00 AM local time), embarking on the second leg of the Navika Sagar Parikrama-II (NSP-II) expedition to Lyttelton, New Zealand. An enthusiastic crowd gathered to bid farewell to the intrepid crew, cheering for their safe and successful passage across the Tasman Sea.
Navika Sagar Parikrama-II, flagged off by the Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi on October 2, 2024, is a landmark expedition in Indian naval history. It involves a dual-handed circumnavigation of the globe by two trailblazing women officers, Lieutenant Commander Dilna K and Lieutenant Commander Roopa A, aboard the 56-ft sailing vessel Tarini.
The journey, which underscores the Indian Navy’s commitment to maritime exploration, women’s empowerment, and global cooperation, began in Goa and included a 39-day voyage to Fremantle covering 4,900 nautical miles under sail.
INSV Tarini arrived in Fremantle on November 9, 2024, to a warm welcome by the Consul General of India in Perth, officials from the Royal Australian Navy, and members of the Indian diaspora, many of whom are Indian Armed Forces veterans.
During their stay, the crew engaged in a series of activities promoting India’s rich maritime heritage and the role of women in leadership. Highlights included:
- Recognition in Western Australia’s Parliament: As special invitees, the crew interacted with parliamentarians and witnessed a session where their remarkable journey was formally acknowledged.
- Cultural Exchange: Interactions with the Indian community and youth at a vibrant event coordinated by the Consul General of India in Perth.
- Educational Engagements: Visits to the Royal Australian Naval Base HMAS Stirling and Ocean Reef High School, where the officers shared their experiences, inspiring young minds with tales of resilience and innovation.
The stopover also served as an opportunity for essential maintenance on Tarini, overseen by a shore support team from India. The crew received a detailed briefing on the upcoming phase from their mentor, Commander Abhilash Tomy (Retd), a veteran circumnavigator who also assessed the vessel’s readiness.
In its second leg, INSV Tarini will sail across the Great Australian Bight, Tasmania, and the South Island of New Zealand, covering approximately 3,400 nautical miles (6,300 kilometers) in 20 days. This phase will challenge the crew with varied weather conditions, including frontal systems and plummeting temperatures.
As ambassadors of India’s maritime heritage and progressive values, Lt Cdr Dilna K and Lt Cdr Roopa A embody the spirit of exploration and determination. Their journey not only showcases the capabilities of Indian women in the naval arena but also strengthens maritime ties between India and Australia.
The Navika Sagar Parikrama-II continues to inspire, reflecting India’s strides in gender equality, resilience, and global maritime engagement.