The return of Lieutenant Commanders Dilna K and Roopa A -- the two-member women team of Indian Navy marked a historic milestone, as the duo became the first Indian women to accomplish a global circumnavigation in double-handed sailing mode. Pics/Defence PRO
Updated On: 2025-05-29 11:48 PM IST
Compiled by : Asif Ali Sayed
Addressing a flag-in ceremony in Goa for the Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Tarini, Rajnath Singh hailed the courage, endurance, and accomplishments of two Indian Navy officers—Lieutenant Commanders Dilna K and Roopa A—who returned after successfully completing Navika Sagar Parikrama II, a circumnavigation expedition undertaken in double-handed mode
Highlighting the growing role of women in the armed forces, the Defence Minister said, “From the heights of Siachen to the depths of the ocean, Indian women are fulfilling critical responsibilities that have significantly enhanced the nation’s security envelope"
Describing the expedition as the epitome of ‘Nari Shakti’, Singh applauded the officers for overcoming immense physical and psychological challenges, including extended solitude at sea
“Not everyone can achieve what these two officers have. Their grit, determination and mental strength are a matter of national pride,” he stated
The ceremony featured the release of a photo essay book titled ‘Breaking Waves, Making History’, capturing the extraordinary voyage through photographs and first-hand narratives, offering insights into maritime exploration and seafaring from a unique perspective