‘Shown what true courage looks like’, PM Modi to Navy officers who did ‘Navika Sagar Parikrama’
Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated the incredible journey of two Indian Navy officers during his latest “Mann Ki Baat” radio show, highlighting their daring global sail as a shining example of women’s strength in India.
Speaking in the 126th episode on Sunday, Modi tied the story to Navratri festivities, where people honor female power. “From business and sports to education and science, India’s daughters are conquering every field and tackling challenges that once seemed impossible,” he said.
At the center of his praise were Lieutenant Commander Dilna and Lieutenant Commander Roopa, who completed the “Navika Sagar Parikrama”—a solo-handed circumnavigation of the globe on a wind-powered sailboat. The duo covered about 47,500 kilometers over 238 days, facing unpredictable ocean weather the whole way. “Can you imagine staying at sea for eight months, traveling 50,000 kilometers in a boat driven only by wind, with storms ready to hit anytime?” Modi asked listeners. “These brave Indian Navy officers did just that, showing real courage and grit.”
Dilna, from the Navy’s Logistics Cadre since 2014, and Roopa, from the Naval Armament Inspection Cadre since 2017, shared their stories with Modi. Both drew inspiration from their fathers—one a former Indian Air Force officer, the other from the Navy—pushing them toward defense careers.
The adventure kicked off from Goa on October 2, 2024, and wrapped up on May 29, 2025, with just the two women aboard. After three years of intense training in navigation, communication, emergency gear, and diving, they tackled the high seas together.
One highlight? Hoisting the Indian Tricolour at Point Nemo, Earth’s most remote ocean spot. “We were the first Indians and first Asians to reach there—and the first humans ever,” Dilna proudly told Modi.
Roopa added a fun fact: “Fewer people have sailed around the world on a sailboat than have summited Mount Everest.” She credited their success to four years of teamwork. “We know each other’s strengths and weaknesses inside out. Our boat’s most reliable gear? That unbreakable bond.”
Modi wrapped up by thanking them warmly. “Dilna and Roopa, your tales give me goosebumps. Your bravery is unmatched, and it will surely motivate India’s youth to chase big dreams.” Their “Navika Sagar Parikrama” achievement underscores women’s empowerment in the Indian Navy and beyond, inspiring a new wave of adventurers.
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