The Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Tarini has successfully arrived in Fremantle, Australia. This marks the end of an important 39-day non-stop journey from Goa. The expedition, known as Navika Sagar Parikrama II, was launched on October 2, 2024. It aimed to promote gender equality and strengthen global maritime cooperation.
Expedition Overview
INSV Tarini was flagged off by Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of Naval Staff. The voyage covered a distance of 4900 nautical miles. The crew faced challenging conditions, including strong winds and rough seas. They crossed key geographical points like the Equator and the Tropic of Capricorn.
Crew Composition and Challenges
The crew consisted of Lt Cdr Dilna K and Lt Cdr Roopa A. They encountered winds reaching 40 knots and sea states of up to 6. Despite these adversities, the crew remained healthy and optimistic throughout the journey.
Reception in Australia
The arrival of INSV Tarini on November 9 was celebrated by Indian and Australian dignitaries. The Consul General of India at Perth and the Defence Advisor from Canberra were present. The event included a cultural performance by the Tamil Association of Western Australia, showcasing India’s rich cultural heritage.
Significance of the Expedition
This expedition marks India’s commitment to international maritime relations. It serves as a platform for promoting gender equality within the Navy. The journey also reflects India’s dedication to sustainable global engagement. The resilience of the female sailors is a testament to their determination and capability.
Future Prospects
INSV Tarini will visit four major international ports as part of its journey. This will further enhance India’s maritime presence on the global stage. The expedition’s success encourages more initiatives aimed at encouraging cooperation among maritime communities.
Questions for UPSC:
- Examine the role of women in the Indian Navy and their impact on gender equality.
- Critically discuss the significance of maritime expeditions in promoting international relations.
- With suitable examples, discuss the challenges faced by naval expeditions in extreme weather conditions.
- Analyse the contributions of cultural performances in strengthening bilateral relations between nations.
Answer Hints:
1. Examine the role of women in the Indian Navy and their impact on gender equality.
Women in the Indian Navy have increasingly taken on important roles, breaking traditional barriers and contributing to gender equality. The presence of female officers like Lt Cdr Dilna K and Lt Cdr Roopa A on voyages such as the Navika Sagar Parikrama II symbolizes the Navy’s commitment to inclusivity. Their participation not only showcases women’s capabilities in challenging environments but also inspires future generations, promoting a cultural shift towards gender parity within the armed forces. This progressive approach enhances the Navy’s operational effectiveness and reflects broader societal changes regarding women’s empowerment.
2. Critically discuss the significance of maritime expeditions in promoting international relations.
Maritime expeditions, such as the INSV Tarini’s voyage, play important role in encouraging international relations by enhancing diplomatic ties and cultural exchanges. These journeys allow nations to showcase their maritime capabilities and commitment to global cooperation. The presence of dignitaries from both India and Australia during the Tarini’s reception illustrates how such expeditions can facilitate dialogue and collaboration between countries. Additionally, they promote shared values like sustainability and gender equality, reinforcing mutual respect and understanding, which are essential for peaceful international relations.
3. With suitable examples, discuss the challenges faced by naval expeditions in extreme weather conditions.
Naval expeditions often encounter severe weather challenges, including high winds and rough seas, as evidenced by INSV Tarini’s experience with winds reaching 40 knots and sea states of up to 6. Such conditions can jeopardize the safety of the crew and vessel, complicate navigation, and hinder communication. Historical examples include the USS Cyclops, which disappeared during a storm in 1918, denoting the risks involved. Effective training, robust vessel design, and real-time weather monitoring are essential for mitigating these challenges, ensuring the safety and success of maritime operations.
4. Analyse the contributions of cultural performances in strengthening bilateral relations between nations.
Cultural performances serve as a powerful tool for strengthening bilateral relations by encouraging mutual appreciation and understanding between nations. The Tamil Association of Western Australia’s performance during the reception of INSV Tarini exemplifies how cultural exchanges can create a shared sense of identity and respect. Such events humanize diplomatic interactions, making them more relatable and engaging. They provide a platform for showcasing a nation’s heritage, promoting tourism, and encouraging people-to-people connections, ultimately contributing to more robust and amicable international relations.
