In a remarkable feat of courage and determination, two Indian Navy officers, Lieutenant Commander Roopa A., and Lieutenant Commander Dilna K., have successfully navigated the world’s most remote point, Point Nemo, during their ambitious circumnavigation aboard INSV Tarini.
This achievement underscores their exceptional seamanship and marks a significant milestone in India’s maritime history especially for women in India and globally..
This significant milestone was reached at 0030 hours IST on January 30, 2025, during the third leg of their circumnavigation journey from Lyttelton, New Zealand, to Port Stanley in the Falkland Islands.
What is special about Point Nemo
Point Nemo, officially known as the “Oceanic Pole of Inaccessibility“, is situated in the South Pacific Ocean, located at coordinates 48°53’S 123°24’W in the South Pacific Ocean, is approximately 2,688 kilometers from the nearest landmass..
Its isolation makes it the most remote location on Earth, often referred to as the “spacecraft cemetery” due to decommissioned satellites being directed to re-enter Earth’s atmosphere above this point..
Navigating through this desolate region presents unique challenges, including unpredictable weather patterns and the psychological test of enduring extreme isolation..
About the Navy officers
Lieutenant Commander Roopa A., hailing from Pondicherry, joined the Indian Navy in June 2017.. Her father, G.P. Alagirisamy, served in the Indian Air Force, instilling in her a profound sense of duty and discipline..
Lieutenant Commander Dilna K., from Kozhikode, Kerala, was commissioned into the Navy in June 2014.. Her late father, Devadasan, served in the Indian Army, inspiring her commitment to national service..
Both officers have undergone rigorous training over the past three years, accumulating over 38,000 nautical miles of sailing experience..
Their preparation included trans-oceanic expeditions from Goa to Rio de Janeiro via Cape Town and back, as well as voyages to Port Blair and Port Louis in dual-handed mode.
They received mentorship from esteemed circumnavigators, including Commander Abhilash Tomy, the first Indian to complete a solo, non-stop circumnavigation of the globe..
About the journey
The officers embarked on the Navika Sagar Parikrama II mission on October 2, 2024, from INS Mandovi near Panaji, Goa.. This eight-month-long expedition covering approximately 23,400 nautical miles aims to promote ocean sailing, showcase India’s Nari Shakti (women power), and foster global maritime cooperation..
The journey retraces the route of the previous all-women circumnavigation, with planned stops in Fremantle (Australia), Lyttelton (New Zealand), Port Stanley (Falkland Islands), and Cape Town (South Africa), before returning to Goa in May 2025..
It also contributes to scientific research in collaboration with the National Institute of Oceanography, the Wildlife Institute of India, and the Defence Food Research Laboratory, focusing on studies related to marine microplastics, megafauna, and the development of customized pre-cooked Indian meals for long voyages..
During their passage through Point Nemo, the officers collected water samples to be analyzed by the National Institute of Oceanography.. These samples are expected to provide valuable data on oceanic conditions, including marine biodiversity and chemical composition, contributing to ongoing oceanographic research..
Significance of the achievement
Crossing Point Nemo is a testament to the officers’ exceptional navigation skills, resilience, and mental fortitude.. Their successful navigation through this remote and challenging part of the ocean highlights the Indian Navy’s commitment to excellence and gender equality..
This accomplishment not only inspires future generations of women in shipping, maritime, and in the armed forces but also reinforces India’s position in promoting inclusivity and diversity within its military ranks..
As Lieutenant Commanders Roopa A. and Dilna K. continue their voyage, they exemplify the spirit of adventure and dedication that defines the Indian Navy..
Their journey serves as a beacon of inspiration, demonstrating that with determination and rigorous training, even the most formidable challenges can be overcome..
SHIPPING AND FREIGHT RESOURCE SALUTES THE DETERMINATION AND FORTITUDE OF THESE OUTSTANDING OFFICERS..
For a visual overview of this remarkable achievement, watch the following videos:
