When Lieutenant Commanders Dilna K and Roopa A set sail aboard the Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Tarini, they were not merely embarking on a maritime expedition. They were charting a course that would redefine possibilities for women in uniform and leave an enduring mark on India's naval history.

Now, their extraordinary courage, resilience, and seamanship have earned them one of the nation's highest peacetime gallantry honours—the Shaurya Chakra. President Droupadi Murmu conferred the award on the two Indian Navy officers in recognition of their exceptional achievements during the historic Navika Sagar Parikrama expedition.

Their remarkable journey was not just about crossing oceans. It was about breaking barriers, overcoming nature's fiercest challenges, and inspiring countless young Indians to dream bigger.

A Voyage for the History Books

The story of Dilna and Roopa's achievement began with a bold mission. Sailing aboard INSV Tarini, the officers undertook the Navika Sagar Parikrama expedition in a double-handed mode, meaning the entire voyage depended solely on the skill, endurance, and teamwork of the two sailors.

In 2024, they successfully completed a challenging transoceanic expedition between Goa and Mauritius, becoming the first Indian women officers to accomplish such a feat. Flagged off by renowned circumnavigator and mentor Commander Abhilash Tomy (Retd), the journey tested every aspect of their training and determination.

After 22 days navigating the unpredictable waters of the Indian Ocean, they reached Port Louis in Mauritius. Yet the return journey proved equally demanding, with strong winds, rough seas, and adverse weather conditions constantly testing their resolve. Despite the challenges, the duo safely brought INSV Tarini back to Goa, earning admiration across the country.

Conquering the World's Oceans

Their achievements did not stop there. The officers later embarked on the ambitious Navika Sagar Parikrama-II mission, an eight-month circumnavigation voyage that showcased India's growing capabilities in ocean sailing and exploration. 

Beginning on October 2, 2024, from Goa, the expedition covered an astonishing 23,400 nautical miles—approximately 43,300 kilometres—across some of the world's most challenging waters. The voyage took them through Australia, New Zealand, the Falkland Islands, South Africa, and several remote stretches of ocean where sailors must rely entirely on their skills, preparation, and courage.

Battling towering waves, powerful winds, unpredictable weather systems, and prolonged isolation at sea, the officers demonstrated exceptional endurance and professionalism throughout the mission. Their successful return to Goa in 2025 marked another historic chapter in India's maritime legacy.

Inspiring Future Generations

The Shaurya Chakra is awarded for acts of exceptional courage and devotion to duty. In honouring Dilna K and Roopa A, the nation recognised not only their sailing achievements but also their ability to inspire. Their journey reflects the spirit of modern India—fearless, ambitious, and willing to venture into uncharted waters.

As they prepare for future maritime challenges, their story continues to motivate young women across the country to pursue careers in the Armed Forces and embrace opportunities once considered beyond reach.