Navika Sagar Parikrama II (GS Paper 3, Defence)
Context
- The Indian Navy is embarking on a historic and ambitious mission with the Navika Sagar Parikrama II, an all-women expedition aimed at circumnavigating the globe.
- This mission not only builds on India’s rich maritime heritage but also underscores a strong commitment to gender equality and global naval prominence.
- Led by two distinguished Indian Navy officers, Lt Cdr Roopa A and Lt Cdr Dilna K, the voyage promises to push the boundaries of seamanship and adventure.
Mission Overview and Objectives
Navika Sagar Parikrama II is a testament to the Indian Navy’s dedication to advancing maritime skills and promoting gender equality. Lt Cdr Roopa A and Lt Cdr Dilna K, both seasoned naval officers, are preparing to set sail aboard the INSV Tarini. Their voyage, which involves circumnavigating the globe, has several key objectives:
- Showcasing Advanced Seamanship: The expedition will demonstrate high levels of maritime expertise, built upon rigorous training and previous trans-oceanic experiences.
- Preserving Maritime Heritage: By continuing India’s tradition of seafaring exploration, the mission aims to honor and maintain the country’s rich maritime legacy.
- Championing Gender Equality: The all-women crew will highlight the role of women in the naval field, promoting gender parity and inspiring future generations of female sailors.
Training and Preparation
Lt Cdr Roopa A and Lt Cdr Dilna K have undergone extensive training over the past three years in preparation for this demanding voyage. Their preparation has included:
- Intensive Training: The officers have accumulated thousands of nautical miles through various training exercises and previous expeditions. This extensive experience is crucial for navigating the challenges of a global circumnavigation.
- Previous Expeditions: They have successfully completed notable journeys, including routes from Goa to Rio de Janeiro and back, as well as voyages from Goa to Port Blair and Mauritius. These expeditions have equipped them with valuable experience and skills.
- Mentorship: Their training has been guided by Cdr Abhilash Tomy (Retd.), a renowned circumnavigator and hero of the Golden Globe Race. His expertise has been instrumental in preparing the officers for this ambitious mission.
Historical Context and Legacy
The Navika Sagar Parikrama II follows the successful completion of Navika Sagar Parikrama I, which took place from September 10, 2017, to May 21, 2018. This pioneering expedition featured a six-member all-women crew and made a significant impact:
- Journey Details: The first expedition covered 21,600 nautical miles (40,000 kilometers) and included port calls at Fremantle (Australia), Lyttelton (New Zealand), Port Stanley (Falkland Islands), Cape Town (South Africa), and a technical halt at Port Louis (Mauritius). This extensive voyage highlighted the crew’s resilience and maritime expertise.
- Recognition and Impact: The crew’s achievements were celebrated with the Nari Shakti Puraskar and the Nau Sena Medal, recognizing their contribution to women empowerment and showcasing India’s maritime capabilities. The expedition was featured in the documentary Tarini and inspired National Geographic’s “Girls Who Sailed” campaign, further promoting stories of determination and courage.
Symbolism and Logo
The logo for Navika Sagar Parikrama II encapsulates the spirit of the expedition. It incorporates:
- Octagonal Navy Emblem: Representing the Indian Navy’s maritime tradition and strength.
- Sun: Symbolizing energy, resilience, and the journey’s adventurous nature.
- Compass: Reflecting navigation skills and the voyage’s global scope.
- Sailboat: Emphasizing the maritime aspect of the mission and the crew’s sailing prowess.
These symbols collectively represent the Indian Navy’s commitment to exploration, adventure, and the enduring spirit of seamanship.
Future Implications and Inspirational Value
- The Navika Sagar Parikrama II mission is set to inspire a new generation of sailors and contribute to India’s growing maritime prominence.
- By achieving this challenging circumnavigation, Lt Cdr Roopa A and Lt Cdr Dilna K will continue to build on the legacy of their predecessors and further the Indian Navy’s dedication to excellence and gender equality in the naval domain.
- This expedition not only marks a significant milestone in maritime exploration but also serves as a powerful testament to the capabilities and achievements of women in the field, reinforcing the values of adventure, resilience, and empowerment on the global stage.
