This Kerala Woman Navy Officer Is Elated After Completing the Historic Expedition
Lieutenant Commander Dilna K, hailing from Kozhikode, Kerala, has achieved a significant milestone as one of the two women naval officers who recently completed a trans-oceanic and inter-continental voyage spanning an impressive distance of 17,000 nautical miles after over six months.
Among the crew, the two women officers, Lt Cdr Dilna K and Lt Cdr Roopa A undertook the expedition from Goa to Rio de Janeiro via Cape Town and back, sailing for 188 days on the vessel. She underwent extensive training aboard the INSV Tarini, along with Lt Cdr Roopa Alagirisamy.
On May 23, as the INSV Tarini reappeared on the Goan horizon and made its way into the mouth of the Mahdoi River, it marked a significant achievement for the Navy.
Reflecting on her experience, Lt Cdr Dilna K said, “I have gained a tremendous amount of knowledge during this expedition. The person who boarded the yacht today is not the same person who embarked nearly seven months ago. I have grown more confident while on the boat, and this transformation was made possible by the support I received from everyone, especially the crew.”
The crew participating in the expedition also included several other members, including Captain Atool Sinha, Lieutenant Commander Ashutosh Sharma, Lieutenant Aviral Keshav, Commander Nikhil Hegde, Commander MA Zulfikar, Commander Divya Purohit, and Commander AC Doke, who played crucial roles.
The women officers have now shifted their focus towards training for the Navy’s upcoming endeavour: sending a woman on a solo circumnavigation of the globe. This ambitious goal demonstrates their determination and commitment to breaking barriers and making history in naval expeditions. They are preparing for the next chapter of their extraordinary journey, where they will strive to conquer new horizons and inspire future generations.
