Indian Navy Officers Make History: First Humans to Reach Point Nemo During 50,000 KM Circumnavigation

Lieutenant Commander Dilna K and Lieutenant Commander Roopa A successfully traversed Point Nemo, earning high praise from Prime Minister Narendra Modi for their exceptional achievement.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended two Indian Navy officers on Sunday during his 126th 'Mann Ki Baat' radio broadcast, celebrating their remarkable completion of the 'Navika Sagar Parikrama' expedition that covered an impressive 50,000 kilometers.

Speaking during the Navratri festival period, PM Modi highlighted the significance of their achievement: "During Navratri, we celebrate Shakti and honor women's power. Our nation's daughters are excelling in every field—business, sports, education, and science—overcoming seemingly insurmountable challenges."

The Prime Minister posed a thought-provoking question to his audience: "Could you remain at sea continuously for 8 months? Could you travel 50,000 kilometers on a sailboat powered solely by wind, especially when sea conditions can deteriorate without warning?" He emphasized that most would hesitate before attempting such a feat, yet Lieutenant Commander Dilna and Lieutenant Commander Roopa accomplished this extraordinary journey during the 'Navika Sagar Parikrama'.

"They have demonstrated the true meaning of courage and determination," PM Modi stated, acknowledging their exceptional bravery.

During the broadcast, both officers shared their expedition experiences with the Prime Minister. Lieutenant Commander Dilna introduced herself as a member of the Logistics Cadre who joined the Indian Navy in 2014, while Lieutenant Commander Roopa explained she entered service in 2017 with the Naval Armament Inspection Cadre.

Both officers revealed that they followed in their fathers' footsteps—who had served in the Indian Air Force and Navy respectively—which inspired their own military careers.

When asked about their journey, Lieutenant Commander Dilna described it as life-changing: "This circumnavigation was a transformative opportunity provided by the Indian Navy and government. We sailed approximately 47,500 kilometers, departing from Goa on October 2, 2024, and returning on May 29, 2025. It took us 238 days to complete this expedition with just the two of us aboard."

She detailed their three-year training program that covered navigation, communications equipment operation, emergency procedures, diving, and other essential skills.

The officers proudly recounted hoisting the Indian Tricolour at Point Nemo, Earth's most remote location. "We became the first Indians, first Asians, and first humans in the world to reach that specific location," Lieutenant Commander Dilna stated with pride.

Lieutenant Commander Roopa added perspective to their achievement: "The number of people who have circumnavigated the globe on a sailboat is significantly fewer than those who have reached Mount Everest's summit."

She attributed their success to teamwork: "Having sailed together for four years, we understand each other's strengths and limitations. Our boat had only one equipment set that never failed—our teamwork."

PM Modi concluded by expressing his admiration: "Hearing your stories provides a genuinely thrilling experience. Your courage is remarkable. You have my sincere gratitude, and your dedication and accomplishments will undoubtedly inspire our country's youth tremendously."