Mon Sep 23 20:35:00 UTC 2024: ## Two Indian Navy Officers Embark on Historic Solo Circumnavigation of the Globe
**NEW DELHI, Sept 23** – In a groundbreaking feat of maritime prowess, two Indian Navy officers, Lt Commander Dilna K and Lt Commander Roopa A, will embark on an unprecedented solo circumnavigation of the globe, covering 21,600 nautical miles (approx 40,000 km) over eight months.
The expedition, named Navika Sagar Parikrama II, will see the duo navigate treacherous waters, including the treacherous Cape Leeuwin, Cape Horn, and Cape of Good Hope, relying solely on wind power. They will become the first Indian sailors to complete this journey in double-handed mode, a testament to their exceptional courage, resilience, and commitment to pushing the boundaries of human endurance.
The historic voyage will be flagged off from the Naval Ocean Sailing Node, INS Mandovi, Goa on October 2nd. The expedition is being conducted under the aegis of the Indian Naval Sailing Association, with coordination from international maritime agencies.
“We are fully prepared for the voyage,” stated the two officers, emphasizing their confidence and preparedness.
Vice Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan lauded the expedition, calling it a journey of empowerment, innovation, and a commitment to India’s maritime heritage. He reaffirmed the Indian Navy’s dedication to professionalism and responsibility, both domestically and globally.
Both officers, veterans of previous trans-oceanic expeditions, have proven their mettle through past voyages. Lt Commander Dilna K, commissioned in 2014, follows her father, a former Indian Army officer, in a legacy of service. Lt Commander Roopa A, who joined the Navy in 2017, also comes from a family with a strong military background, her father having served in the Indian Air Force.
Navika Sagar Parikrama II is not just a voyage but a powerful statement of India’s maritime strength and its dedication to advancing human potential. The officers’ journey promises to be a captivating story of perseverance, resilience, and a deep commitment to pushing the boundaries of human achievement.
First Piper 