In this image released by @SpokespersonMoD via X on March 7, 2025, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh digitally interacts with ‘Navika Sagar Parikrama II’ crew Lt Commander Dilna K and Lt Commander Roopa A, who are circumnavigating the globe aboard INS Tarini.
| Photo Credit: @SpokespersonMoD
On the eve of International Women’s Day, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday, via video conference, interacted with the two women Naval officers — Lt. Cdr. Dilna K and Lt. Cdr. Roopa A — undertaking global circumnavigation under Navika Sagar Parikrama II in sailing vessel INSV Tarini.
“During the interaction, the Defence Minister lauded the courage, dedication, and resilience of the NSP-II crew, who have embarked on this challenging voyage as part of India’s continued efforts to showcase Nari Shakti in high-endurance missions,” the Navy said in a statement. He congratulated the crew for the remarkable milestones of crossing Point Nemo — the world’s most isolated waters — and sailing through the Drakes Passage, one of the most treacherous water bodies, it stated.
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh interacts via video conference to the two women Naval officers Lt. Cdr. Dina K. and Lt Cdr. Roopa. Photo: X/@rajnathsingh
The Minister acknowledged the invaluable role of women in bolstering national security and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to expanding opportunities for women in the defence sector, the Navy added.
The expedition was flagged off on October 2, 2024 at Goa by Navy Chief Adm. Dinesh K. Tripathi. INSV Tarini is presently on the fourth leg of the journey and would reach Cape Town, South Africa on April 1 and complete their voyage of 23,400 Nm (43,300 km) at Goa by end-May.
Published – March 07, 2025 09:47 pm IST