INSV Tarini: The Indian Naval Sailing Vessel ‘Tarini’ started the final part of her long journey from Cape Town in South Africa to Goa. This sailing trip is part of a big expedition called Navika Sagar Parikrama II. The goal of this journey is to sail all around the world using a small sailing boat, and this time, it is being done by two brave women officers of the Indian Navy. The Navy wants to show the world how strong and skilled Indian women in uniform are, and how good India is at building ships on its own.
On Tuesday, ‘Tarini’ was officially flagged off at 10:30 in the morning from the Royal Cape Yacht Club in Cape Town. The event was attended by many important guests including the officiating Consul General of India in Cape Town, the Defence Attache of India to South Africa, members of the Royal Cape Yacht Club council, and people from the Indian community living in Cape Town.
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A spokesperson from the Indian Navy said, “The vessel was flagged off from Goa on October 2 last year by Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi.”
The two officers sailing this boat are Lieutenant Commander Dilna K and Lieutenant Commander Roopa A. During their stop in Cape Town, the vessel became a place for many friendly and diplomatic activities. The crew welcomed several special guests on board.
It played host to several guests including High Commissioner of India to South Africa Prabhat Kumar; Deputy Speaker of the Western Cape Reagan Allen; former South African cricketer Jonty Rhodes; Kirsten Neuschafer, winner of the prestigious Golden Globe Race 2022–23 and a noted solo circumnavigator; Ruby Jaspreet, Counsel General of India at Cape Town; and members of the Indian diaspora and other local dignitaries, he said, reported Hindustan Times.
A Meaningful Journey
During their time in Cape Town, the officers on ‘Tarini’ did many activities to share their message of women empowerment and gender equality. They talked with people, shared their stories, and showed how strong and capable Indian women can be.
The boat also showed how well India can build ships by itself. The Navy spokesperson said, “The circumnavigation is a significant endeavour aimed at promoting ocean sailing in India, showcasing the strength and resilience of Indian women in uniform, and highlighting India’s indigenous shipbuilding capabilities.”
The boat, under the Navika Sagar Parikrama II project, is going around the world by sailing through the three Great Capes which are known for their challenging seas. This trip is not only a big step for women in the Navy but also a proud moment for all Indians. The boat is expected to arrive in Goa by the end of May, finishing this long and inspiring journey across the oceans.
