Defence Minister Rajnath Singh today interacted with the lady crew officers of Navika Sagar Parikrama II on the eve of International Women’s Day through video conferencing. Navika Sagar Parikrama-II is an Indian Navy expedition undertaking a dual-handed circumnavigation of the Earth by two women officers of the Navy, Lieutenant Commander Dilna K and Roopa A. During the interaction, Mr Singh lauded the courage, dedication, and resilience of the crew, who have embarked on a challenging voyage of circumnavigating the globe. He congratulated the crew for the remarkable milestones of crossing Point Nemo, the world’s most isolated waters and sailing through the Drake Passage, one of the most treacherous water bodies. The Defence Minister reiterated the government’s vision of a gender-inclusive armed force, encouraging more young women to aspire to careers in defence and adventure sports. He acknowledged the invaluable role of women in bolstering national security and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to expanding opportunities for women in the defence sector.