Air Marshal Pratap Rao was commissioned as a fighter pilot on 25 August 1956. He has held numerous important command and staff appointments. Being an A2 Qualified Flying Instructor he was sent on deputation to a friendly country to impart training to its pilots. Subsequently, he was posted to Aircrew Examining Board where he was awarded Vayu Sena Medal in 1975 for utmost devotion to duty. He was also specially selected for the appointment of Military, Naval and Air Attaché to Bangkok. On return he was appointed as Air Officer Commanding (AOC) of a major fighter base in the Western Sector, where for his distinguished service of an exceptional order, he was awarded Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in 1989. He has also held important assignments such as Planning Officer in the Department of Defence Production, Director Intelligence and Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Inspection).

On promotion to the rank of Air Marshal, the Air Officer was appointed Senior Air Staff Officer (SASO) of the Western Air Command (WAC). In this assignment the Air Officer made significant contributions to the operational plans and their execution. The Air Officer was then appointed as Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of WAC. In a very short time the Air Officer was able to appreciate the priorities of Govt and dovetail them with the Command plans, which increased the operational potential of the Command without any additional resources or expenditure.

The Air Officer is presently holding the vital appointment of Vice Chief of the Air Staff. In this assignment, the Air Officer brings to bear his best operational and staff experience. He has left an indelible imprint in the appointments that he has held during his chequered career spanning nearly four decades of dedicated service,

Air Marshal Pratap Rao, AVSM, VM has thus rendered distinguished service of most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Verinder Puri was commissioned as a pilot in the transport stream on 25 August 1956. During his long illustrious career, he has held many important assignments both in the field and staff. He has flown various types of aircraft and has 9500 hours of accident free flying to his credit. An A2 Qualified Flying Instructor, he has also served as staff at the Flying Instructors School. He has been the Air Force Examiner with Aircrew Examining Board for two years. Because of his instructional prowess, he was selected to go on deputation to a friendly country to train its pilots. He has commanded three field units including the prestigious Air Headquarters Communication Squadron associated with VVIP/VIP commitments. For his professionalism, determination and courage he was awarded the Vayu Sena Medal (VM) in 1964 and a Bar to VM in 1975. He has commanded two major Air Force bases and was subsequently specially selected to undertake diplomatic assignment as Air Attaché to USA.

On promotion to the rank of Air Vice Marshal, he was appointed Senior Air Staff Officer (SASO) of Southern Air Command. The Air Officer was responsible for the efficient conduct of air operation during operation Pawan (Sri Lanka) and operation Cactus (Maldives). He was later appointed Senior Air Staff Officer of Eastern Air Command (EAC) on promotion to the rank of Air Marshal, where he worked diligently towards improving the operational preparedness and efficiency of the Command.

The Air Officer is presently serving as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOCin-C) Training Command (TC). He has put his vast flying, field and staff experience to optimum use by ensuring that high training standards are maintained and all courses are completed on schedule.

Air Marshal Verinder Puri, VM and Bar has thus rendered distinguished service of most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Sadanand Kulkarni was commissioned as a Navigator on 23 March 1957. In his long career spanning more than 37 years he has held varied field and staff appointments. He holds A-1 Navigation Instructor category, and has served as Air Force Examiner for three years. For outstanding professional skill he was awarded Vayu Sena Medal in 1969. An alumni of Defence Services Staff College (DSSC), Defence Institute of Work Studies, College of Defence Management (CDM), Naval Post Graduate School, California, USA and National Defence College (NDC), the Air Officer has served with distinction as Directing Staff at DSSC for two years and at CDM for five years. He also held the appointment of Director Systems Evaluation at Air HQ. He was later appointed Air Officer Commanding Air Force Station Tambram, the premier Training Institution of the IAF.

As Commandant of CDM, the Air Officer put his vast academic and teaching experience to full use. He restructured the main course and initiated a number of short duration courses to suit the Services requirement. On promotion to Air Vice Marshal, he was appointed Senior Officer Administration of the Western Air Command. Due to his personal example, tremendous capacity for sustained hard work and methodical approach he established harmonious and effective management of man power and resources which had a direct bearing on the output of operational units.

On promotion to Air Marshal, he was selected for the appointment of Commandant of National Defence College, the most prestigious defence institute of our country which he is holding till date. The Air Officer, with his knowledge and experience has restructured the syllabus, modernised the training aids and support facilities and incorporated a modern library retrieval system.

Air Marshal Sadanand Kulkarni, VM has thus rendered distinguished service of most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Satish Kumar Sareen was commissioned as a fighter pilot on 29 May 1957. He has held several key field and staff appointments in his service career. As a Flight Commander of a MIG-21 Squadron, for courage and devotion to duty, he was awarded Vayu Sena Medal in 1970. He graduated from Defence Services Staff College in 1971 and was appointed Ops-1 in Eastern Air Command. A Pilot Attack Instructor, the Air Officer was selected for a deputation to a friendly country to train its pilots. He commanded a fighter squadron and was the Chief Operations Officer of two major fighter bases. He also commanded an Air Defence Radar Unit. On promotion to Air Commodore, he was appointed Air Defence Commander, Western Sector. In 1985, he was specially selected to the diplomatic assignment of Air Attaché to the Embassy of India at London, UK. On return to India, he was appointed Air Officer Commanding of Air Force Station Srinagar. For his commendable performance he was awarded Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in 1990.

On promotion to the rank of Air Vice Marshal the Air Officer held the key appointments of Additional Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Operations) and Director of Intelligence. While holding these appointments he carried out a complete update of our adversary's capabilities and disseminated the same to all concerned. On promotion to Air Marshal rank, the Air Officer was appointed Senior Air Staff Officer (SASO) of Central Air Command, where he excelled in bringing realism to electronic warfare training. He was personally involved in a night para drop exercise of a Battalion Group, which culminated very successfully. He was later appointed Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C) of South Western Air Command (SWAC). His proposal for operational re-deployment and re-organisation of SWAC units was accepted by Air HQ and is being implemented. He was also tasked to carry out an in-depth review of Logistics Management in IAF. He has produced a policy document to reorganise the entire logistics branch and its functions, which is under study at Air HQ. In Jun 1994, the Air Officer was appointed AOC-in-C Western Air Command (WAC). Air Marshal Satish Kumar Sareen, AVSM, VM has thus rendered distinguished service of most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Kodendera Cariappa Cariappa, VM was commissioned as a fighter pilot on 29 May 1957. As a young pilot, he qualified as a flying instructor. While on an instructional tenure he was attached to a fighter squadron to participate in the 1965 operations. He was shot down on an operational mission and taken prisoner of war. Released with injuries in a POW exchange after the war, he converted onto helicopters before being selected by the then CAS to be his ADC. Thereafter, he commanded a helicopter squadron before and during the 1971 war. For his performance in command of the squadron, he was awarded the Vayu Sena Medal in January 1973. After regaining his medical category, he reverted to the fighter stream and also commanded a fighter squadron. An alumnus of Defence Services Staff College (DSSC), he served as directing staff of the College of Air Warfare. He successfully commanded a fighter base and was selected by the CAS to be his Air Assistant. Thereafter, he was specially selected to undergo the course at prestigious Royal College of Defence Studies in England. On return to India he was appointed Air Officer Commanding of Air Force Station Gwalior.

On promotion to Air Vice Marshal, he was appointed as Chief Instructor (Air) at DSSC. Later he was the Air Officer Commanding, Advance Headquarters, Western Air Command, where he contributed significantly to the overall operational plans.

On promotion to the rank of Air Marshal, he successfully held the appointment of Senior Air Staff Officer (SASO) of Eastern Air Command (EAC). Inspite of disturbed insurgency conditions, he provided a fresh impetus into the operational plans and their modes of implementation. The Air Officer presently holds the vital appointment of Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of South Western Air Command. In this appointment, he brings to bear his vast operational and staff experience to maintain this command in peak operational readiness.

Air Marshal Kodendera Cariappa Cariappa, VM has thus rendered distinguished service of most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Rajamani Ramamurthy was commissioned in the Aeronautical Engineering (Mechanical) branch on 01 March 1958. As Senior Technical Officer of a newly acquired fighter aircraft, he did a commendable job for which he was awarded VSM in 1971. Subsequently, he was appointed Chief of Aircraft at a major Base Repair Depot (BRD) and performed exceptionally well by increasing the production. He was specially selected as the technical member of Jaguar Project Team in UK. As Director of Jaguar and Mirage cell at Air HQ, the Air Officer performed creditably in ensuring timely setting up of support facilities for new aircraft at three AF Wings. He was later appointed as Air Officer Commanding of largest Repair and Overhaul Base, where due to his meticulous planning and foresight, he set up the new facilities and test beds for the overhauling of newly inducted aircraft and aeroengines. On promotion to the rank of Air Vice Marshal, he was appointed Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (ACAS) at Air HQ, responsible for supporting Indo-Western fleet. He was a member of the Ministry of Defence team which negotiated with Rolls Royce and obtained over Rs.80 crores in foreign exchange as damages.

On promotion to Air Marshal, the Air Officer was appointed Senior Maintenance Staff Officer of Maintenance Command (MC). He vigorously pursued the IAF's short and long term maintenance targets. On being appointed AOC-in-C, MC, in July 1993, Air Marshal R Ramamurthy has brought to bear his wide ranging field and staff experience to initiate fresh impetus to the on-going process of technological update of maintenance practices of the IAF.

Air Marshal Rajamani Ramamurthy, VSM has thus rendered distinguished service of most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Ramesh Chandra Bajpai was commissioned as an Engineer in the Electronics Branch on 20 June, 1960. He has held the appointments of Air Officer Commanding of an Air Force Station and Senior Maintenance Staff Officer (SMSO), Eastern Air Command prior to being appointed SMSO, Maintenance Command. He has undergone various courses on Electronics warfare (EW) such as EW Training in USA. He is an alumnus of the National Defence College,

As a founder member of Electronic Warfare organisation in the Air Force, he has contributed immensely in planning, procurement and maintenance of equipment and formulation of procedures for EW operations. He successfully executed a large number of projects for the indigenous development of Airborne Early Warning System.

As SMSO, Eastern Air Command, he achieved substantial improvements in every aspect of maintenance activities and also effected savings in manpower, money and materials. The aircraft serviceability including the serviceability of ageing Hunter fleet improved which helped in accomplishing the training tasks ahead of time. The inventory holdings were reduced resulting in substantial saving. At every formation, workshop output increased and many innovative projects were implemented. All this was achieved with reduced manpower. Over 94 long standing 'Aircraft On Ground' were recovered and rotated. All this would not have become possible but for his dedication, dynamic leadership, untiring efforts and managerial qualities.

Air Marshal Ramesh Chandra Bajpai has, thus, rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Vice Marshal Tushar Sen was commissioned on 15 December 1960 in the flying branch of Air Force. As a young pilot in a Gnat squadron he was awarded Vayu AVSM 1994-95 Sena Medal in 1967. This was in recognition of his contribution in the 1965 operations and skillful handling of two serious in-flight emergencies.

An experienced fighter pilot with over 3500 accident free flying hours, Air Vice Marshal T Sen is a qualified flying instructor and a Fighter Combat Leader. He has held many important field and staff appointments. He has commanded a front line fighter squadron, and is among the few officers who have the distinction of commanding two operational bases. On staff appointments he has served as Command Flight Safety Officer Training Command, Joint Director Air Staff Inspection and Air­ I Eastern Air Command.

While Commanding Air Force Station Adampur, he was responsible for the smooth induction of the MiG 29 aircraft. The work services were completed in record time with the squadron becoming fully operational in six months and the station was adjudged as the best ever fighter base inspected by the Directorate of Air Staff Inspection since its inception in 1971.

In his current tenure as Air Defence Commander, he has brought to bear all his attributes in enhancing the air defiance capability of Western Air Command by optimising the existing resources. His professional knowledge, incisive analysis of problems and uncanny ability to arrive at the best possible solution stood out time and again. His professional stature, fair and firm approach in interpersonal matters and dedication to duty make him an excellent leader.

Air Vice Marshal Tushar Sen VM has, thus, rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Vice Marshal Krishnan Narayanan Nair was commissioned in the Flying Branch on 19 December, 1961. He has over 7300 hours of accident free flying. An A2 Qualified Instructor, he has been a Command Examiner on Packet aircraft. The Air Officer has held the appointments of Commanding Officer of a transport squadron, Station Commander and Air Officer Commanding, Air Force Station, Agra. In staff appointments he has been Air II, Central Air Command and Deputy Director General Defence Planning Staff. An alumni of Defence Service Staff College (DSSC) and National Defence College, he was also a Directing Staff at DSSC.

He was appointed as Commandant of Air Force Academy on 01 Oct 1993. In a short AVSM 1995 span of time he galvanized and shaped the Academy into a model training establishment. Under his dynamic leadership he has innovated and streamlined every aspect of flight safety. As a result, the execution of the enormous flying training task of over 9000 hours every six months has been better systematized. Two courses of women pilots, introduced for the first time in the IAF after he assumed command, have been completed successfully. The entire Academy area has also been given a face lift at no cost through self help introduced by him.

The Air Officer has achieved high serviceability for Kiran and HPT-32 aircraft operating at the Academy. He has also encouraged the engineering staff into innovations leading to designing and fabrication of several test rigs and modifications.

Air Vice Marshal Krishnan Narayanan Nair has, thus, rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Vice Marshal Jayaraj Henry Mandody was commissioned in the Logistics Branch on 16 December, 1961. Whilst being the Chief Logistic Officer at an Equipment Depot (ED), he performed creditably and was awarded VSM in 1988. He has held the appointments of Senior Logistics Officer at two major bases, Deputy Command Logistic Officer at a command Headquarters, and Director of Maintenance Administration as well as Director of Stores at Air Headquarters. He was the first Air Force Officer to command the Embarkation Headquarters at Calcutta, an army formation.

He was appointed the Air Officer Logistics Management (AOLM) at Maintenance Command on 01 November 1993. Under his direction, identification of indigenously available spares, timely build up of stocks and obtaining supplies from HAL held IAF Stores resulted in an all round enhancement of spares availability. Rationalisation of spares through identification of commonality and alternative usage of dormant inventory was also spearheaded by him. Further, he personally supervised special reviews of Mirage and Dornier Weapon Systems by way of specific identification of requirements and laying down of revised ARS (Automatic Replenishment System) scales. To 'reach out and supply', the entire Integrated Transportation System was rejuvenated. Intensive and timely support to operational units was thus provided by the Air Stores Parks through increase in the range of supplies and equitable distribution of short supply items.

Air Vice Marshal Jayaraj Henry Mandody VSM has, thus, rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Vice Marshal Subhash Chandra Mukherjee was commissioned in 1963 and has held various assignments in different operational units with high professional competence.

In 1987, he went on deputation to Group Insurance Society (GIS) as Secretary. During his period of two years in the society he was instrumental in bringing about enhanced benefits for all personnel in the form of GIS88 Scheme. It was his dynamism that brought out loan facilities in the form of House Building Advance. During his tenure at AF Central Accounts Office Individual Running Ledger Account (IRLA) of airmen were computerised and monthly computerised pay slips are now being sent in respect of 1.4 lakh Airmen/ Non-combatants (Enrolled). The manual maintenance of IRLA was dispensed with. This process brought about saving of Rs. 15 lakhs per annum.

Air Vice Marshal Subhash Chandra Mukherjee has, thus, rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Commodore Thirunillayi Ramaswamy Jankiraman was commissioned on 31 January 1963. During his distinguished career of 31 years, he has held varied assignments wherein he distinguished himself with enviable performance. He had the distinction of serving in frontline aircraft squadron, operational Wings, Aircraft Systems Testing Establishment, Base Repair Depot, Command Headquarters and Air Headquarters.

After his training in USSR, on overhaul of the engines of AN­ 12 aircraft, he was placed in­charge of setting up overhaul facilities and commissioning of the Engine Test Bed, which he completed in a record time. During his tenure at Aircraft Systems Testing Establishment he effectively contributed towards completion of many important evaluation trials. On promotion he took over as a Chief Engineer of engine overhaul line at a Base Repair Depot and in one single year doubled the number of engine overhauls from 26 to 52. During the same period, he also prepared the project report of overhaul of engine of AN-32 which is now a reference document.

The Air Officer very gainfully utilised his field experience and first hand knowledge as Command Engineering Officer and as Air Force Liaison Officer in Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (Nasik Division), where he exploited to the fullest total resources of HAL division for the benefit of MiG operating units.

The Air Officer at present is responsible for maintenance management of Russian combat fleets facing Herculean task of provisioning of spares in the face of collapse of Russian supply system. Due to his efforts, the IAF has saved at least Rs. 10 crores in procurement of spares. At present, he is closely monitoring projects on reclamation of parts, increased indigenization life extension studies, in addition to his normal duties.

Air Commodore Thirunillayi Ramaswamy Jankiraman has, thus, rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Commodore Kukkehalli Prabhakar Hegde was commissioned on 27 Feb 1963. As a Flight Lieutenant medical trooper he, unmindful of the risk to his life, undertook mission to save aircrash victims in hostile terrain in Eastern Sector.

In 1969, he became a Medical specialist and served with distinction at Armed Forces Medical College, Pune and several Air Force Hospitals. His proficiency and clinical skill led to his being specially selected for the prestigious appointments as Staff Surgeon to the Chief Of the Air Staff in 1982. His outstanding services were recognized with the award of Vishisht Seva Medal in 1986. In 1987, he became Senior Advisor in Medicine for several service hospitals. He was instrumental in starting post graduate courses in all major clinical subjects at Command Hospital Air Force Bangalore duly recognized by Bangalore University and Medical Council of India. This was a matter of great prestige to medical services and helped many to obtain post graduate degree and improve quality of medical care.

As an Air Commodore, he was posted as Joint Director General Medical Services at Air HQ in Nov 1992. By his varied professional experience, he achieved significant modernization of Air Force Hospitals, Station Sick Quarters and Dental Centres.

In December 1993, he was appointed Air Officer Commanding Air Force Central Medical Establishment (AFCME). Under his stewardship many new diagnostic facilities have been added. The procedures have been reorganized so that the specialist facilities are now extended to outpatients also as a routine. This has benefited serving as well as retired service personnel.

Air Commodore Kukkehalli Prabhakar Hegde VSM has, thus, rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Commodore Teja Mohan Asthana was commissioned on 15 Dec 1962. He was selected to undergo the Fighter Combat Leaders (FCL) Course at a very early stage. He excelled on the course and later served twice on the staff of Tactics and Air Combat Development & Training Establishment (TACDE), the premier establishment in the Air Force for the development of fighter tactics and for training fighter combat leaders. For his contribution in this field he was awarded Vayu Sena Medal in 1980. In between these two postings he was deputed to train the pilots of a friendly country. On his return to India he commanded a MiG21 squadron. He was then appointed Joint Director of Joint Operations at Air HQ. Air Cmde Asthana then commanded a frontline fighter base and was later specially selected to join the Directorate of Air Staff Inspection as its Joint Director. He served in this capacity for a year before becoming the Director of Air Staff Inspection, on promotion to Air Commodore. In these most demanding of appointments applied his vast professional knowledge and experience with understanding and maturity to help raise operational standards in the Air Force. He was then selected to command one of the premier and major forward fighter bases of the IAF. As Air Officer Commanding Air Force Station Adampur, he used the wealth of his experience to improve the operational standards of the combat units on his base as well as the performance of the support services. He also contributed in large measure to planning and participated in a Command level exercise.

Air Commodore Teja Mohan Asthana VM has, thus, rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Commodore Harbinder Singh Sidhu is a transport pilot of outstanding merit with nearly 7000 hours of flying to his credit. He has held Command of two transport squadrons and of an Air Force Selection Board. He has also been an Air Force Examiner. For his various accomplishments as an aviator, he was awarded Vayu Sena Medal in 1979.

As the Air Officer Commanding Air Force Station Agra, the largest transport aircraft base of the IAF, his responsibilities covered an uncommonly wide spectrum, ranging from maintenance, training and the optimal operational utilisation of the most expensive and modern transport aircraft in the IAF inventory, to managing VVIPs visit to Agra. He acquitted himself very creditably, often under great constraints of time and resources.

A singular measure of his committed and professional stewardship was the successful para drop of a Battalion Group by night, on 23 Feb 1994, of which he was the Task Force Commander. It was for the first time that such military mobility involving 21 aircraft flying in a new formation by night, was successfully demonstrated. This exercise had called for the modification of AN-32 formation lights, the mathematics of flight evolution and development of formations to be flown, formulation of procedures to be adopted and the training of a large number of aircrew for the task. He undertook and executed the entire exercise with rare professional supervision.

Air Commodore Harbinder Singh Sidhu VM has, thus, rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Commodore Kurumthodathil Cherian Phillipose was commissioned as a fighter pilot in the flying branch of the IAF on 28 Oct 1963. He took an active part in 1965 and 1971 Indo Pak conflicts. A qualified fighter combat leader (FCL), he was on the staff of Tactics and Air Combat Development Establishment for a period of five years where he not only excelled as an instructor but also helped develop many new combat tactics. He has commanded a MiG­21 Squadron and has been the Chief Operation Officer of a major Air Force Wing equipped with fighters, transport and helicopters. He successfully completed Higher Command Course at College of Co­mbat and Long Defence Management Course at College of Defence Management and later distinguished himself as a directing staff at College of Air Warfare and at College of Defence Management, Hyderabad.

Air Commodore Phillipose took over as Air Officer Commanding, Air Force Station Jamnagar in Jun 1993. He used his vast and varied experience to ensure all round improvement of the Station and help augment its operational preparedness. Air Commodore Phillipose has been involved in every activity of the Station.

Air Commodore Kurumthodathil Cherian Phillipose has, thus, rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Commodore Anil Kumar Trikha was commissioned as a fighter pilot on 18 Apr 1964. He participated in the 1965 operations as a very young pilot. He was selected to undergo the Flying Instructor Course. An A2 Qualified Flying Instructor (QFI) he was selected to serve on the staff of Flying Instructor School. Later he was selected to serve as a QFI on deputation to a friendly country. An alumnus of Defence Services Staff College (DSSC) he also served as Directing Staff in the same institution. He is also qualified as a Fighter Combat Leader (FCL) AVSM 1995-96 and commanded a front line MiG­21 squadron. He was specially selected to undergo a specialist operationally oriented course abroad. Thereafter, he served on the operational staff at Air Headquarters and in the Military Wing of the Cabinet Secretariat before being posted as the Chief Operations Officer of a Jaguar base. His demonstrated performance both in the field and on staff qualified him eminently for a key appointment on the air staff of Western Air Command. For his distinguished service, he was awarded Vishisht Seva Medal in Jan 1992.

On promotion to Air Commodore, he was appointed Air Officer Commanding (AOC) Air Force Station Ambala. In the year and a half that he has been AOC Air Force Station Ambala he used his vast experience in the field and on staff to train the personnel to his station, demanding all round excellence from them. When certain technical problems laid low the Jaguar fleet for an extended period of time, the quality of his leadership ensured that the personnel of Jaguar squadrons and those supporting them were kept constructively occupied and their morale maintained at a high level. At the same time, he associated himself with efforts and trials to upgrade the air defence environment of the Air Force.

Air Commodore Anil Kumar Trikha VSM has, thus, rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Group Captain Dasari Jayapaul was commissioned on 05 March 1964 in the Army Dental Corps and seconded to the Air Force. From the very beginning he has built a very high professional reputation and exemplary professional standards. The officer was awarded VSM in 1986.

As the Commanding Officer of No. 1 Air Force Dental Centre, Palam, he has improved the quality of professional care and a quantum jump in the technological infrastructure of the unit. He introduced a novel concept in AP Dental service, Family Dental Surgery through the auspices of Air Force Wives Welfare Association, which has brought down the waiting period of families coming for treatment from far away units. He got a van allotted on long term basis which is used as 'Dentistry at the door steps'. Simultaneously he also carried out modernisation of other surgeries with latest equipments. Because of such highly advanced and latest professional expertise, Dental centre, Palam has attained a distinction of being a referral centre.

Group Captain Dasari Jayapaul VSM has, thus, rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Squadron Leader Raj Shekhar Mehta was commissioned in Administration branch of IAF on 28 May 1983. He is Deputy Chief Administration Officer at Air Force Station Tezpur.

On 09 September 1993, a herd of wild elephants entered the camp of Air Force Station Tezpur and lodged themselves in dense forest on the Southern Side of the airfield, close to the runway. Attempts to chase them out of the camp by helicopters were futile as the dense forest not only provided them cover but made it nearly impossible to locate their position. The elephants caused an extensive damage to the communication and electric cables, airfield lightening and security fence. Since the elephants were very close to the runway, the flying was adversely affected. On 20th September 1993, it was decided to drive them by organizing a beat. Squadron Leader Mehta, then Station Security officer was assigned the task. A group of 35 men was assigned to him for this job. The group armed with rifles and drums entered the dense forests from Eastern side at around 0930 hours. By 1130 hours, it had combed ¾ of the jungle and chased the herd to one side. Squadron Leader Mehta led his men, encouraging them constantly during the entire operation. At around 1130 hrs, he was suddenly attacked by an elephant and thrown on the ground. Despite the shock, Squadron Leader Mehta retained his cool and dragged himself away from the direction in which the same elephant was attacking him. In the struggle that ensured, his left thigh was stamped and crushed by the elephant before it moved away from him. Even though seriously injured, he crawled to a distance of nearly 20 feet, picked up his portophone and guided the beat party to chase the herd out. Only on completion of the task, he called up the party for his own rescue. Squadron Leader Raj Shekhar Mehta after the first aid was rushed to the local Base hospital and later shifted to the Eastern Command Hospital at Calcutta for major surgery.

Squadron Leader Raj Shekhar Mehta, thus, displayed courage, determination, initiative and leadership qualities of exceptionally high order. Authority: Notification No. 92-Pres/95 dated 26th January, 1995 published in Part 1, Section 1, Gazette of India dated 11th March 1995.

Squadron Leader Tony Paul Nanda is one of the posted strength of a Chetak/Cheetah Helicopter Flight, Air Force, Since 17 January 94.

On 15th September 94, he was detailed to undertake a causality evacuation mission in a Chetak helicopter from Gota village in Riasi district of J&K state. Being aware that the casualties were hit by bullets fired by Anti National Elements, he took due precautions in approaching and landing at the helipad located at a height of 6000' amsl.

He loaded the two causalities quickly and occupied the Pilot seat. The instant the rotors were engaged, the helicopter was fired away from the hill and was hit. One bullet gazed Squadron Leader Tony Paul Nanda's head. Bleeding profusely and in a dazed condition, he gathered his wits and decided that the best course of action was to get airborne.

He took off amidst a spray of bullets and selected the most suitable escape route. Even in the face of great danger, the safety of his helicopter and passengers was paramount to him. Despite his own injury, instead of landing at a nearest airfield he insisted that the aircraft be flown to Jammu, so that the causalities could reach the civil hospital in time. The sheer professionalism, clarity of thought and exceptional courage displayed by Squadron Leader T P Nanda under such dangerous circumstances is in keeping with the highest traditions of the Air Force.

Squadron Leader Tony Paul Nanda, thus, displayed courage, determination, and dedication beyond the call of the duty with utter disregard to his personal safety.

As Commanding Officer of Indian Air Force Element of United Nations Operation in Somalia (UNOSOM-II) during 1993-94 Wg Cdr NK Upadhya with his leadership, administrative acumen and professionalism ensured that all his helicopters were hundred percent airworthy at all times. He achieved this by ensuring a very high standard of maintenance in adverse conditions existing in Somalia. The environment is dusty and humid with a very high salt content. There being no proper airfield or hangars, the helicopters are perforce parked in the open. Wing Commander Upadhya evolved cost effective procedures, thereby bringing down the running cost of helicopter operations considerably.

On 15 March 1994, at 1030 h Wing Commander Upadhya was directed to render assistance to an Indian convoy which was under heavy fire from Somali militia near Wanle Wyne. On reaching the area, he could not find any suitable landing site in the proximity of the convoy. He decided to attempt a landing on the narrow dusty road behind the convoy, the area in which the firing was continuing. Displaying utmost dexterity in flying skill, professionalism and courage, he safely landed the helicopter. He was asked to evacuate five critically wounded Somali militiamen. He quickly assimilated and assessed the situation, and directed another helicopter flying in the area to divert to the site. He got air borne and provided fire cover making it safe for the other helicopter to land. Wasting no time, Wing Commander Upadhya landed, took two casualties on board his helicopter and evacuated them in good time to Indian Hospital at Baidoa. For this exemplary courage and leadership, Wing Commander Upadhya has earned a good name for the Indian contingent amongst the contingents of other 32 nations forming UNOSOM-II.

For exceptional bravery and distinguished service of high order rendered with UNOSOMII in Somalia, the President is pleased to award 'Yudh Seva Medal' to Wg Cdr Narendra Kumar Upadhaya.

In August 1992 Wing Commander Dilip Dinkar Mandpe as Commanding Officer of a helicopter unit was tasked to undersling a snow scooter to one of the forward posts at an altitude of 16,700' AMSL. If the snow scooter had not been airlifted the post would have had to be abandoned in winter and this would have meant a great setback to Op Meghdoot. Realising the gravity of the situation Wg Cdr Mandpe undertook the sortie personally and accomplished the mission successfully.

During this period Wg Cdr Mandpe has flown over 350 captain hrs evacuating several causalities and carrying vital stores in the Siachin glacier under trying conditions and constant threat of enemy small arms fire, artillery shelling and the surface-to-air missiles. The most notable casualty evacuation carried out by Wg Cdr Mandpe was on 08 Apr 1993 when the Air Force was asked to evacuate five casualties from Sonam post. Under adverse weather conditions and visibility just 500 meters, Wg Cdr Mandpe successfully brought out the casualties in two sorties.

In addition to this impressive effort, he has been instrumental in imparting operational training and undertaking clearance of the unit pilots in the 'Op Meghdoot' area. His personal involvement has ensured a very high percentage of unit pilots being fully operational in this area.

For distinguished service of high order in 'Op Meghdoot' area of operations, the President is pleased to award the 'Yudh Seva Medal' to Wg Cdr Dilip Dinkar Mandpe.

Squadron Leader PE Patange as a member of Indian Air Force Element took part in the United Nations Operations in Somalia (UNOSOM-II) for flying duties during October 1993.

On 15 March 1994 at 1145 hrs Sqn Ldr Patange was returning from Mogadishu after completion of a United Nations' mission. He was directed on radio to divert and render assistance to an Indian convoy which was involved in heavy exchange of fire with Somali militia near Wanle Wyne.

Sqn Ldr Patange quickly assimilated the situation and flew the helicopter directly to the site. There was no suitable landing ground in the proximity of the site and heavy firing was continuing. Sqn Ldr Patange, displaying utmost courage and professionalism, landed the helicopter, under fire, on a narrow dusty road behind the convoy. On landing, he was tasked to evacuate to Baidoa, a Somali militia man who was critically wounded in the heavy exchange of fire and was unconscious. An Irish doctor who was accompanying the convoy was also taken on board to take care of the casualty during the flight. While flying towards Baidoa the casualty regained consciousness and became violent posing a grave threat to the crew and the occupants of the helicopter. Sqn Ldr Patange, despite the danger to himself and his crew, kept his cool and handled the situation with exemplary courage. He safely landed the helicopter at Baidoa and handed over the casualty to the Indian Field Hospital. This gallant act of Sqn Ldr Patange has brought a good name to the Indian contingent and enhanced the image of India amongst contingents of other 32 nations which are a part of UNOSOM-II.

For distinguished service of high order while serving with UNOSOM-II in Somalia, the President is pleased to award 'Yudh Seva Medal' to Sqn Ldr Prashant Eknath Patange.

Group Captain Shyamal Kumar Banerjee was commissioned as a pilot in the flying branch on 04 June 1967. He has held the appointment of Flight Commander at Elementary Flying School Bidar, the Chief Flying Instructor at Transport Training Wing Yelahanka and Deputy Director Air Staff Inspection at Air Headquarters. As an experienced Qualified Flying Instructor he assumed the command of an AN-32 Squadron on 29 Jun 92, three months after a fatal Cat I accident in which both the Flight Commander and Navigation leader were killed.

The Squadron aircrew categorization state and the operational clearance state for different roles were low. With his untiring efforts, unflinching determination and perseverance, he tackled this task in an exemplary manner. Under his close supervision, 25 pilots, 13 navigators and 09 Flight Engineers upgraded their aircrew category/Instrument rating. Also 10 pilots and 08 navigators achieved fully operational status. In addition, three Qualified Flying Instructors were cleared for the instructional duties in air maintenance role and two pilots were trained to perform the duties of Right Hand Seat Check Pilot. The aircraft serviceability state of the Squadron improved. The average night flying effort of the Squadron and the average tonnage per hour for air maintenance sorties also increased.

Group Captain SK Banerjee has to his credit 7600 hours of accident free flying. Under his leadership the Squadron has been adjudged the Best Transport and Helicopter Squadron of EAC for two consecutive years 1992-93 and 1993-94. For exceptional devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Gp Capt Shyamal Kumar Banerjee.

Group Captain Sudhir Asthana was commissioned as a fighter pilot in the Indian Air Force. He is a qualified flying instructor with an A-2 Category and was deputed to Govt. of Iraq in 1980 for instructional duties. He is a fighter combat leader of repute and has commanded a MiG-21 Squadron. He is a graduate of Defence Services Staff College and has done a successful tenure in Directorate of Personnel (Officers) at Air HQ. Gp Capt Asthana has to his credit over 3200 hours of accident free flying.Gp Capt Sudhir Asthana took over as Chief Operation Officer of a major flying Wing in January 1993. The Wing has six flying units - all equipped with different types of aircraft and two Missile squadrons, each of them also with different equipment. Coordinating their activities, monitoring their training and planning and executing their integrated flying training is an enormous task. Inspite of limited resources, he ensured near perfect environment for flying which was conducive to good operational training. This was amply proven when Directorate of Air Staff Inspection inspected the Station where the standard of preparedness of Base Air Defence and Air Traffic Control were assessed as Above Average.

The base which is co-located with Command Headquarters has a large number of dignitaries and teams visiting the Station. Flying displays have to be organised at a very short notice involving participation of large number of aircraft of different types, missiles and radar units which require minute and fool proof co-ordination. He planned and coordinated these displays in such a fashion that highlighted the professional standard of IAF. His contribution in the field of flight safety have also been significant and has resulted in major reduction in number of accidents and incidents at the Station.

For exceptional devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Gp Capt Sudhir Asthana.

Group Captain VS Govindarajan was commissioned on 20 December 1969 in the flying branch of IAF. He has been a Flight Commander, Chief Flying Instructor and Senior Flying Training Officer in the Training Command. He is a graduate of Defence Services Staff College.

Gp Capt VS Govindarajan was appointed the Commanding Officer of Paratroopers' Training School (PTS) on 08 December 1992. He was tasked to conduct trials and evolve a procedure for day formation by AN-32 aircraft (ac). He carried out trials within a short period of one month and also trained the supervisors of other units so that the first new formation para drop exercise by day could be carried out in April 1993 at a high altitude dropping zone in Northern Sector.

In June 1993 he was tasked to conduct trials for night close formation on AN-32 ac. Within one month he succeeded in evolving a detailed procedure and ensured requisite modification of the aircraft. In July 1993 he successfully flew as section of six aircraft in a new night formation profile.

In Feb 94 he was appointed type force commander for conducting a large scale Army airborne assault exercise by night. The safe and successful conduct of the exercise was due to the highest leadership qualities displayed by Gp Capt VS Govindarajan.

Under Gp Capt VS Govindarajan's leadership, the Akash Ganga skydiving team of PTS won the National Sky Diving Championship Trophy in 1993. The first ever Indian Combat Freefall Course was conducted in 1994. Para Jumping Instructors of PTS achieved a record freefall from 28,500 feet for the first time.

For exceptional devotion to duty the President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Gp Capt Vrithamani Srinivasaaiyangar Govindarajan.

Group Captain Gurcharan Singh Bhogal was commissioned in the IAF on 19 December 1970. He has over 1300 hrs of accident free flying to his credit. He is also an A-2 flying instructor with over 1000 hrs of instructional flying, and has been an Air Force Examiner. A graduate of Defence Services Staff College he has served as Directing Staff at this prestigious Institution.

Gp Capt Bhogal was posted to the Air Force Academy (AFA) as Chief Instructor (Flying) in March 1993, where he has been responsible for the supervision and conduct of all flying training at the Academy. This task is extremely challenging as it involves conduct of flying and ground training in six different syllabi. This enormous task involves close and direct supervision to ensure the highest quality of flying training amounting to 18,000 hours per year, which is the maximum flown at any IAF Station. In addition Gp Capt Bhogal has personally supervised training and standardisation of a large number of flying instructors.

Induction of women trainees into the flying branch resulted in increased quantum of flying at AFA. Gp Capt Bhogal was asked to introduce simultaneous mixed flying of Kiran and HPT32 aircraft in order to increase availability of ac and achieve optimum utilisation of manpower and ac resources. Gp Capt Bhogal worked ceaselessly to revise orders and procedures with great care and deliberation to ensure that mixed flying is carried out in a very safe environment. The Academy was awarded the Best Flying Training Establishment and the best Flight Safety Trophies of Training Command for the year 1993.

For exceptional devotion to duty the President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Gp Capt Gurcharan Singh Bhogal.

Group Captain Shiv Kumar Bhan was commissioned in the IAF in the fighter stream on 19 December 1970 and has over 2750 hrs of flying to his credit. He is a Fighter Combat Leader and has successfully undergone Higher Air Command Course. He has commanded a Fighter Squadron, has been on the staff of Tactics and Combat Development Establishment and Directorate of Air Staff Inspection and has also served as Flying Instructor in Iraq.

He was posted to Air Force Station, Srinagar as the Chief Operations Officer (COO) on 12 Apr 93. As COO, the Officer involved himself in an exemplary manner to resolve numerous problems of air operations of multiplicity of aircraft roles in demanding times in the Valley. Toshe Maidan Air to Ground Range, which had remained closed for the last five years, was re-activated within a record time. The officer brought the operational status of the Station to a high standard in a short time.

During an Air Defence exercise conducted in the valley in July 1993, the officer exercised direct control of operations at Srinagar and Awantipur. Besides being the Base Air Defence Officer for both the bases, he controlled the entire operations in a safe and realistic manner. It was only due to his vision and correct analysis of likely threats that he could bring in realism in the exercise thus enhancing the potential of all operational elements involved. Similarly, during heavy snowfall in February 1994, he worked vigorously to clear the entire runway and aircraft operating area. This resulted in resumption of commercial flights within two days and by fighters within four days. The officer was instrumental in meticulous planning, excellent coordination and precise execution of Special Heliborne Operations in connection with 'Amarnath Yatra' in August 1994 which was highly appreciated by J&K State Govt.

For exceptional devotion to duty the President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Gp Capt Shiv Kumar Bhan.

Group Captain Pradeep Kumar Mulay was the Commanding Officer of a helicopter Squadron (Sqn) from February 1992 to October, 1993.

During his tenure as CO the Sqn performed exceptionally well in all the fields. The Sqn maintained high aircraft serviceability with a clean flight safety record.

Gp Capt Mulay motivated the personnel of his Sqn by working effectively and efficiently. The Sqn performed very well when inspected by Directorate of Air Staff Inspection in Feb 93 by obtaining an assessment of Average Plus. Further, the Sqn achieved the distinction of winning the trophy of front gun team event in Command Gunnery Meet, 1992-93 in helicopter stream.

The Sqn carried out each and every task assigned and performed well. Forward Area Re-arming Refuelling Point trials were carried out in area of operations of an Army Corps successfully under his able guidance and professional knowledge. It was under his able Command that the Attack Helicopters carried out air to ground firing in Mahajan Range for the first time. Sqn added one more feather to its cap in Oct 93, when it was judged as the best helicopter unit in Western Air Command.

For exceptional devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Gp Capt Pradeep Kumar Mulay.

Wing Commander JS Panesar was commissioned as a pilot in the fighter stream in Jun 1973. He was one of the few officers who were selected to go to France to convert on to Mirage 2000 aircraft. He is a Fighter Combat Leader, a graduate of Defence Services Staff College and an expert on electronic warfare in which he has made significant contributions. He has over 3200 hours of accident free flying to his credit.

Wg Cdr Panesar has successfully completed two years in Command of a MiG-21 Bis Squadron. The Sqn operated safely and efficiently on detachment from Naliya when the parent Base was closed for seven months for runway resurfacing. This was possible due to Wg Cdr Panesar's ability to motivate the aircrew and technical staff and to mould them into an effective team. The Sqn was able to improve aircraft serviceability during his tenure.

Wg Cdr Panesar has also been a Fighter Combat Leader for the last 11 years. He took keen interest and played an active role in the training of young pilots and for inculcating in them the finer ingredients of combat flying. With ceaseless efforts and with his exemplary leadership, he brought about significant elevation of the operational (Op) capabilities of the Sqn by upgrading the Op status of many pilots. His Sqn won the team bombing trophy in the Inter Squadron Weapons Meet 1993. For exceptional devotion to duty the President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Wg Cdr Jasbir Singh Panesar.

Wing Commander Selvaraj Raj was commissioned as a pilot in the fighter stream on 09 February 1974. He has held the appointment of Flight Commander of MiG-21 Squadron (Sqn) and was specially selected to go to the then USSR. On return he successfully held the appointment of Flight Commander of MiG29 Sqn. He is a graduate of Defence Services Staff College. His last flying appointment was that of Air Force Examiner with Aircrew Examining Board. He is an A-2 Qualified Flying Instructor.

He was detailed for Pechora Missile Course, in which he was assessed as 'Exceptional'. He took over the command of a Pechora squadron on 31 March 1992.

His achievements, individually and that of the Squadron, established his professionalism and leadership qualities. He was specially selected as Directing Staff for a missile upgradation course at Tactics & Air Combat Development Establishment (TACDE). He enhanced the unit's operational capability by relocating combat flights at better sites. He put up a detailed paper projecting certain weaknesses in Air Defence for which action has been taken at the highest level.

For exceptional devotion to duty the President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Wg Cdr Selvaraj Raj.

Wing Commander Mohinder Pal Singh Gill was commissioned as a fighter pilot on 22 December 1973. A Qualified Flying Instructor and a Fighter Combat Leader, he commanded a MiG-23 BN Squadron (Sqn) from Oct 92 to Sep 93. He is also an alumni of Defence Services Staff College. Wg Cdr MPS Gill took over command of Sqn after the tragic loss of previous Squadron Commander in a fatal flying accident. The morale of the Sqn was low. However, Wg Cdr MPS Gill, with great perseverance and skill rejuvenated the squadron. After taking over he paid special emphasis on raising the operational standard of the Sqn. Due to his efforts the Sqn enjoyed a very high operational status. Under his able guidance the squadron prepared for an exercise wherein the performance of Sqn came up for praise from every quarter including the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Air Command who flew with the Sqn. During the Command Gunnery Meet 92-93, the squadron did extremely well overall, particularly in bombing and won the overall championship for the year. During Air Staff Inspection in March 1993 the Sqn was assessed as 'Average Plus' in flying and 'Above Average' in ground subjects. The Sqn was declared the best fighter Sqn in Western Air Command for the year 1992-93. These achievements were possible due to Wg Cdr Gill's exemplary leadership, professional competence, and organisational ability. During his tenure the aircraft serviceability was also sustained 75% despite many restraints faced due to the shortfall in aeroengines and other spares.

For exceptional devotion to duty the President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Wg Cdr Mohinder Pal Singh Gill.

Wing Commander Arup Raha was commissioned as a fighter pilot on 14 December 1974. He has served as an instructor at both Flying Instructors School and at Tactics and Combat Development Establishment (TACDE). He is currently an Examiner for awarding instrument rating on MiG-29 aircraft. Trained in Russia, he has contributed immensely towards operational utilisation of the MiG-29 aircraft. He is also a graduate of Defence Services Staff College.

Wg Cdr A Raha was appointed the Commanding Officer of a MiG-29 Squadron (Sqn) in June 1992. On taking over Command, he faced the problem of poor operational status of aircrew and lack of supervisory pilots, compounded by reduced flying effort due to lack of spares. With thorough planning and sustained effort, within a period of one year his squadron achieved fully operational status for all aircrew. The Sqn currently boasts of 10 supervisors and 10 Trainer Captains with 100 percent instrument rated status which is an exceptional achievement.

Wg Cdr A Raha ensured a very high serviceability state of aircraft despite the nonavailability of critical spares from Russia. The officer's exceptional professional competence has helped in evolving sound operational tactics for the MiG-29 aircraft in Air Defence role. The current tactics for the aircraft in intercept role were formulated by him. He has flown more than 700 h/1250 sorties on MiG-29 aircraft, possibly the highest in the IAF. He has to his credit 3300 hrs of accident free flying.

For exceptional devotion to duty the President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Wg Cdr Arup Raha.

Wing Commander Pramod Kumar Roy was commissioned as a helicopter pilot in the Flying Branch on 11 July 1975. He is a Qualified Flying Instructor and has held the appointments of Flight Commander at Mi25 and Mi-35 Helicopter Squadrons. He has also been co-opted at tactics and Air Combat Development Establishment (TACDE) for conducting Helicopter Combat Orientation Course and Attack Helicopter Course. He is a graduate of Defence Services Staff College.

Wg Cdr PK Roy has been commanding a Mi-8 Helicopter Unit since 10 October 1992. He is an 'A' Master Green Pilot and has also been appointed as Command Examiner on Mi-8 Helicopter. He has flown over 4200 hours on all the Helicopter types in the IAF.

During his tenure, the unit was declared the best helicopter/transport unit of command for the year 1993. The unit also bagged the Gunnery Meet trophy for Rocket firing team. Air Staff Inspection Team on their inspection visit in April 1994, assessed the unit as 'Average Plus' in all spheres of activity. He carried out four night exercises with Army as the Type Force Commander. In addition, as the VVIP/VIP helicopter flight of command, the unit has flown dignitaries like the President of India, Chiefs of Army Staff of Bangladesh and Thailand, etc. The crowning achievement of the unit during Wg Cdr PK Roy's tenure has been completion of over 11,000 hours of accident free flying.

For exceptional devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Wg Cdr Pramod Kumar Roy.

Sqn Ldr Sanjay Dattatraya Patki has been posted to Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE) Agra, as a Free Fall qualified parachute Jump Instructor since 29 Jul. 91.

He has been actively involved with development projects on personnel and aircrew parachutes and related safety equipment. He has undertaken live jump testing of indigenous Parachute Automatic Opening Device. He did first live jump trial with (PTA-M) parachute Tactical Assault Main on 28 April 92, which has been developed by ADRDE as a low level parachute for induction in Army. Thereafter, he progressed technical and user trials with PTA-M involving low level jumps at 600 ft and jumps at high altitude. On 14 Aug 93, he did first live jump trial with indigenous Ram Air (9 Cell) Free Fall Parachute. He has to his credit a total of 448 parachute descents inclusive of 311 Free Fall Jumps.

ADRDE has developed Seat MK-10 Aircrew Emergency Parachute for HPT-32 aircraft. Airworthiness authorities suggested that live jump trial be undertaken with Seat MK-10 parachute before final approval. Due to small size of parachute (24 ft Dia), high rate of decent and unusual position (being seattype), carrying out free fall jump with Seat MK-10 parachute was a high risk mission. Sqn Ldr SD Patki volunteered to undertake this challenging task.

On 21 September 1993, he successfully carried out the first ever live jump trial with Seat MK-10 aircrew emergency parachute. This trial was the first of its kind in the country. This live jump by Sqn Ldr SD Patki would boost the confidence amongst future users.

For exceptional devotion to duty the President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Sqn Ldr Sanjay Dattatraya Patki.

Master Warrant Officer Shunmugam Ayyanar, Flight Engineer was enrolled as an engine technician on 25 June 1962. He converted as Flight Engineer in January 1973 and since then he has been working as a flight engineer in various helicopter units and Air HQ Communication Squadron.

Master Warrant officer Ayyanar is one of the most experienced Flight Engineer on Mi-8 helicopter with 7800 flying hours to his credit. He has been holding aircrew category 'A' since 1987. He has experience of flying missions like air maintenance, special heliborne operations, casualty evacuation, flood relief, air lift of VVIPs etc. in entire length and width of country. His impressive incident free flying record includes over 1800 hours in air maintenance, more than 600 hours for flood relief and casualty evacuation and over 1700 hours in helilift of VIPs. During 'OP PAWAN' as the senior most flight engineer, he carried out his job in an extremely exemplary manner. He flew more than 300 sorties during 'OP PAWAN', many of them under fierce firing from LTTE gunmen.

For, exceptional devotion to duty the President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Master Warrant Officer Shunmugam Ayyanar.

695654 Sergeant Jatindra Nath Pradhan, Flight Gunner is on the posted strength of a Mi-8 Helicopter Unit of Indian Air Force since 14 Dec 93.

On 22 Jul 94, Sgt Pradhan was detailed as the second Flight Gunner for rescuing the occupants of a truck that had been stranded in the middle of Kalisindh River which was in spate.

One of the two occupants of the truck had earlier been washed away in the turbulent, surging flood waters. The ill-fated truck lay almost submerged some 75 m from the nearest bank with the water level just below the roof. The cascading waters were shaking the truck violently, making for a very precarious unstable perch. The truck was just 10 feet way from a cataract where the foaming and swirling water was threatening to wash it away any moment.

Despite the frightening circumstances, Sgt Pradhan descended via the winch to the top of the truck to rescue the sole survivor. He did so knowing that he would have to wait on the truck in its perilous position, till the winch was lowered a second time. Having secured the helpless survivor Sgt Pradhan awaited his turn with great fortitude knowing fully well that at any moment he himself could be washed away. Thus, in keeping with the best traditions of the Air Force, Sgt Pradhan risked his own life to save another.

For exceptional courage, the President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Sergeant JN Pradhan.

Air Commodore Sriprumbodur Raghavan was commissioned in the Logistics branch on 10 November 62. He has held the appointment of Senior Logistics Management Officer at Eastern Air Command and been in Command of Air Force Station Faridabad. He also served a tenure on deputation to Canteen Stores Department as Deputy General Manager. He has successfully completed the Long Defence Management Course. Air Cmde Raghavan was appointed the Air Officer Commanding of a major Equipment Depot (ED) on 01 February 1993. His task was to provide effective spares support to the entire Russian fleet of the Air Force in the face of dwindling availability of spares from CIS countries. He instituted methods to identify commonalty of spares among the MiG variants, the tapping of HAL held IAF stores and analysis of the past demands and, thus, identified a large number of critical items that were later procured. He provided valuable inputs for prioritised indigenisation of spares. He identified 88 rotables, which were causing problems in the field and accordingly, the Base Repair Depots (BRDs) were tasked for rotable repairs.

The Depot was assigned the role of developing the entire inventory management package of the newly acquired Antariksh 303 Computer System. Under his able guidance and leadership, the Depot has accomplished development of certain softwares despite various teething problems. The software developed by the Depot has now been accepted as standard inventory management package.

The efforts put in by Air Cmde S Raghavan enabled the Depot to meet all its tasks and provide uninterrupted and sustained support to operational units despite severe all round constraints.

For distinguished service of high order the president is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Air Cmde Sriprumbodur Raghavan.

Air Cmde Srinivasan Venkatachary, was commissioned on 19 January 1963 in the Accounts branch of the IAF. During his service, he has held assignments at Stations, Wings, Commands and Air HQ. Throughout, he has displayed keen sense of involvement and dedication.

As Joint Director Financial Planning since March 1991, he was involved in the formulation of Air Force annual budgets, monitoring of expenditure of acquisitions, modernisation, works services and locally controlled heads, besides keeping a close watch over the foreign exchange outgo vis-à-vis allocations. With budget allocations far below the projections, commitments on maintenance, modernisation schemes and contractual payments had to be very carefully and judiciously controlled. In the task of monitoring expenditure and regulating the allocations, his incisive scrutiny, apt prioritisation and skilful timely diversion of funds greatly contributed towards totally avoiding defaults in payments of contractual obligations for foreign acquisition, meeting all prioritised requirements of AF formations and optimum utilisation of funds by the allottees. It was due to his personal involvement that Air Force budget was fully utilised during the last three years. Management of shoe string budget with expenditure and prioritisation undergoing frequent changes at the level of Air HQ and the Ministry and diversion of funds for high priority schemes entails maintenance of accurate inputs through constant liaison with various agencies. Air Cmde Chary has always taken this task as challenge and

successfully ensured accurate inputs and enabled the authorities to make optimum use of funds.

For distinguished service of high order the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Air Cmde Srinivasan Venkatachary.

Air Commodore Proteep Kumar Ghosh was commissioned as an Engineer in the Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics) Branch on 29 January 1963. He has held the appointments of Deputy Planning Officer in the Ministry of Defence, Command Systems Officer in Training Command, Command of Air Force Station Dalhousie, a Regional Air Defence Ground Environment System (ADGES) Maintenance Establishment (RAME) and a Base Repair Depot. As the first Commanding Officer of RAME at Guwahati Air Cmde PK Ghosh was responsible for overhaul and maintenance of Diesel Generating (DG) sets, air conditioning equipment and calibration of Test Equipment belonging to various ADGES and Flying units in the Eastern Sector. He had severe constraints in terms of manpower and equipment since the establishment for the unit was pending sanction from the Govt. Through his sound technical knowledge and leadership qualities he not only met all the assigned overhaul and calibration tasks, but also maintained over 85% average serviceability of DG sets in the field. Calibration of Test Equipment undertaken by him drastically reduced their down time in the field units. Further, during the flash flood at Hashimara and Panagarh in 1992, he averted total failure of the ADGES network through his timely technical assistance.

Air Cmde PK Ghosh was appointed the Air Officer Commanding of a Base Repair Depot (BRD) on 01 Feb 94. Though new to this assignment, he has already made a mark by indigenising a large number of critically required spares no longer available ex CIS countries. He also successfully contributed in bringing up the equipment at the Interim Test Range at Chandipur, facilitating the scheduled test launch of Agni Missile.

For distinguished service of high order, the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Air Cmde Proteep Kumar Ghosh.

Air Cmde Gulshan Kumar Kwatra was commissioned on 06 April 1964 in Engineering Branch of the IAF. He performed creditably during 1971 War and was Mentioned in Despatches. He has held appointments of Chief Engineering Officer at Uttarlai, Chief of Planning and Chief of Aircraft at a Base Repair Depot and staff appointments at Air Headquarters. He has also been on deputation to the Botswana Defence Forces.

He was appointed Chief Engineering Officer at Air Force Station Bidar with effect from 07 Dec 1992 at a time when works services for Airfield Lighting Project were moving at a slow pace. With his vast managerial experience, high intellectual acumen, sheer grit and determination he analysed the prevailing bottlenecks and initiated remedial measures. These efforts resulted in completion of the project on time.

He was responsible for recovery of 12 aircraft grounded for prolonged period, speedy aircraft structural repairs and sustained high aircraft serviceability. He demonstrated air worthiness of over 40 aircraft by achieving 100% serviceability and flying all aircraft on 12 occasions.

He spearheaded a drive for inventory control resulting in saving of Rs. 57 lakhs. His involvement in commissioning of Modern Servicing Garage and repairs of safety vehicles resulted in substantial savings.

He was responsible in minimising aircraft accidents and incidents due to technical reasons and achieving zero vehicle accident rate. He introduced a number of modifications and innovative maintenance practices and safety measures. His professionalism and dynamic approach added a new dimension in achieving high maintenance standards.

For distinguished service of high order the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Air Cmde Gulshan Kumar Kwatra.

Gp Capt Ashok Kumar was commissioned in the Logistics Branch on 10 April 1965. He held the appointments of Senior Logistics Officer Air Force Station Jodhpur, Command logistics Management Officer at HQ South Western Air Command and Command of Equipment Depot (ED) Detachment. He was also appointed as Defence Adviser to the Ethiopian Air Force. For his creditable performance, he was Mentioned in Despatches in 1971. Gp Capt Ashok Kumar was appointed the Commanding Officer of an Air Stores Park on 28 January 1993. His responsibility com prised providing sustained spares support to all the forward bases of Western Air Command (WAC). He made valuable suggestions in respect of stocking policy for various items which ultimately enabled the Depot to backload more than 3500 lines of items. Sharper focus on critically required items was thus possible. Under his constant pursuance, a large number of critical items were identified, provisioned and procured through indigenisation as well as foreign indent. He further rationalised the distribution of spares by corelating flying effort with spares requirement and through proper dialogue with HQ WAC supplied the essential requirements to all units. The improved packaging of Aero-lubes introduced by him brought down their transit losses considerably. He also contributed substantially towards identification of nonmoving stores and their disposal.

The dedicated efforts put in by the officer paid direct dividends in terms of substantial reduction of AOG (Aircraft Operationally Grounded) demands of items and also better management of resources. The functioning of Air Force Servicing Cell was toned up by him and all outstanding AOG demands cleared in a time bound manner.

For distinguished service of high order the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Gp Capt Ashok Kumar.

Group Captain Vinod Khanna was commissioned as an Electronic Engineer on 04 October 1965. He has held the appointments of Deputy Air Attaché, Embassy of India, USA, Chief Engineer Officer AF Station Rajokri, Commanding Officer of a Guided Weapon Technical Squadron, Deputy Command Engineering Officer in HQ South Western Air Command and at present holds the appointment of Station Commander at Air Force Station, Kasauli. In the year 1993, AOC-in-C Western Air Command directed the station to make contingency plans to prevent any disruption of communications at Kasauli hub-centre. Group Capt Khanna took upon himself to fabricate light weight, low cost and highly manoeuvrable antennas in order to reduce the time of link loss. After fabricating the antennas, trials were conducted on various links to establish the usefulness of these antennas. The trials proved successful and use of these light weight contingency antennas has now been accepted by Air HQ for use in other hub-centres also as contingency measure. By devising these antennas and proving their usefulness, Gp Capt Vinod Khanna has saved at least thirty lakh rupees. The time of link loss has also been reduced from 10-12 hours per antenna to less than 02 hours.

The Officer also initiated various measures such as modification to power house and electronic equipment to keep the serviceability of equipment at more than 99%. For maintaining a high degree of operational preparedness and very high serviceability of equipment, the Station was awarded the Best Performance Trophy in November 1993.

For distinguished service of high order the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Gp Capt Vinod Khanna.

Gp Capt Shakti Nath Kar was commissioned on 03 January 1966 in the Engineering Branch of IAF. In his more than 28 years of service he has held important staff and field appointments which include Senior Technical Officer of a MiG-21 Squadron and Senior Engineer (Mechanical) of a MiG Operating Wing. As Deputy Chief Resident Engineer at Resident Technical Office (Air Armament) he has made valuable contributions to defence indigenisation effort by clearing a number of operational and training stores for inducting into Air Force. He is an alumni of Institute of Armament Technology and Defence Services Staff College.

In 1991, Gp Capt SN Kar was called upon to head a task force to upgrade the operational status of a life expired missile system for which a foreign manufacturer demanded nearly Rs 1.6 Crore. He took up this challenge and by sheer professional competence and innovative approach completed the task in record time using indigenous resources. By this valuable contribution, he not only enhanced the operational potential of the Air Force but also saved Rs 1.6 crore at a time when the country was passing through an acute resource crunch.

In 1994, while on a pre-delivery inspection assignment abroad, his tact and skillful handling of negotiations, resulted in a saving of Rs 1.44 crore in precious foreign exchange.

For distinguished service of high order the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Gp Capt Shakti Nath Kar.

Group Captain Hariharpur Venkatasubbiah Hari Haran was commissioned on 24 December 1967 in the Administrative branch of the IAF. He has functioned as Assistant Provost Marshal at Agra and Dy Provost Marshal at Air Headquarters.

AF Station Gorakhpur is 30 years old and works services were needed to upgrade existing facilities and to create new assets for current requirements. He formulated the works plan to tackle both aspects and followed up with Boards of Officers for special repairs and new works. His personal involvement enabled retrieval of usable assets resulting in considerable savings and better utilisation of meagre funds. Simul taneously, he devoted his attention towards the runway resurfacing work, then in progress. His long hours on site with the engineers ensured adherence to specifications and time frames.

Works services by nature require time for execution. Gp Capt HV Hari Haran ensured reduction of lead time required for execution of works services through accurate forecasting and meticulous planning. He pursued all works with zeal and perseverance, and completed large number of them within the planned time. AF Station Gorakhpur was adjudged 'Best Administered Wing' of command in 1993-94 and secured 'Average plus' assessment in Administration from Directorate of Air Staff Inspection in May 1994.

For distinguished service of high order the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Gp Capt Hariharpur Venkatasubbiah Hari Haran.

Group Captain Aravinda Agrawal was commissioned as an engineer in the Engineering branch on 01 January 1968. He has been associated with aircraft maintenance since his commission. He has been posted as the Senior Test Engineer of Aircraft and Systems Testing Establishment and at Air HQ in the Mirage Induction Cell.

Gp Capt Agrawal was the Chief Engineering Officer of Air Force Station, Adampur. During his tenure, maintenance activities of the base have been steadily im proved. Over and above his normal day-to-day commitments, he has personally inspired his officers and technicians to innovate and modify rigs and aircraft subsystems for the benefit of service. There are four innovations for MiG-23 ac, two for MiG-29 ac and two for general purpose which merit recognition. The most noteworthy are the test rig for checking the Laser Range Finder without removing the components from the ac and the Radar Test Bench for MiG-29 ac. The local fabrication of both these saved 80 man-hours per laser testing procedure and approximately Rs. one crore in foreign exchange for the Radar Test Bench.

For distinguished service of high order the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Gp Capt Arvinda Agrawal.

Gp Capt DK Hegde was commissioned as an Aeronautical Engineer in the IAF on 15 August 1968. Whilst being the unit signal officer at Air Force Station Sirsa during the Indo-Pak conflict 1971, he performed creditably and was Mentioned in Despatches. In his 26 years of service he has held various instructional, staff and field appointments. He has worked as Project Engineer at Radar Communication Project Office (RCPO) and Joint Director, Air Defence Ground Environ ment Systems (ADGES) at Air HQ. He is currently the Deputy Command Engineering Officer of an Operational Command.

Gp Capt Hegde has been trained in UK for the computerised Ground Replay Equipment for the Crash Data Recorder of Jaguar aircraft. He installed and commissioned these equipments at two of the Jaguar bases most efficiently. His keen observations and thorough understanding of this system resulted in modifications to the original software which has greatly improved the performance of these equipments.

During the tenure at a Jaguar base he successfully undertook repair of complex airborne electronic equipment which were otherwise to be repaired abroad. This saved large sum in foreign exchange. He amply demonstrated his skill and professionalism once again during his tenure at a MiG-29 base. He set up and conducted extended second line servicing of avionic and navigational equipment of the ac though there were neither spare facilities nor literature for most of the components. This resulted in saving of precious foreign exchange besides improving the serviceability.

For distinguished service of high order, the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Gp Capt Dayanand Kunhanna Hegde.

Gp Capt Pradeep Kumar was commissioned in the IAF as a helicopter pilot on 21 June 1969. He was on the staff of the Flying Instructors School from January 1981 to December 1982. He is a graduate of the Defence Services Staff College.

Gp Capt Pradeep Kumar took over the command of Air Force Station, Kumbhigram on 24 August 1992. Due to geographical and environmental factors the life in the Station was considered to be hard. Gp Capt Pradeep Kumar through his hard work, foresight and total involvement improved the quality of life on the station. The Station at the moment boasts of a dairy farm with abundant supply of fresh milk and various other Non-Public Fund ventures. By efficient management and reproductions in overheads the Non-Public Fund ventures on the station have shown a 100% improvement in profitability. The station now has a bio-gas plant, the produce of which is used in Airmen's Mess. Through his continuous effort he has transformed this Station which used to be covered in undergrowth to a Station where the landscape is trimmed foliage with planted trees.

During his stewardship a Helicopter Unit, which is a lodger unit of the Station, improved their operational capability and overall service ability. The unit took part in numerous counter insurgency operations with outstanding alacrity due to his overall guidance.

His eye for detailed and expert supervision has helped in saving of substantial amount of money. He optimised the use of vehicles resulting in a saving of nearly 3000 Itrs of petrol every month. During his period of command the vehicle serviceability improved to 98% against an earlier 50%. In the field of signals equipment the serviceability has been increased to nearly 100%.

For distinguished service of high order the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Gp Capt Pradeep Kumar.

Group Captain Kuldip Singh Rana was commissioned on 19 December 1970, as a pilot in the flying branch. He has been Flight Commander (Flt Cdr) of two Canberra Squadrons (Sqns). The officer has also commanded a Canberra unit. He has 5000 hours of accident free flying.

Gp Capt KS Rana took over Command of No. 1 Delhi Air Sqn NCC on 31 August, 1992. Within a short period, using his immense motivational skills and personal example, he was able to substantially improve the administrative functions of the unit.

Gp Capt Rana was not satisfied with the quality and quantum of the gliding effort. He, therefore, completed his own glider conversion in the shortest possible time and got actively involved in the gliding training. Totally unmindful of his personal comfort and inconvenience, Gp Capt Rana plunged head long into the task of restoring the operational and administrative credibility of the unit. It is entirely due to his sustained hard work that the Sqn was able to achieve 4059 glider launches in 1992-93 and 4112 launches in 1993-94.

The officer also converted to microlight aircraft. During All India Vayu Sainik Camp (AIVSC) 93, flying from dawn to dusk, he completed air experience sorties of 500 cadets in seven days. During this period he also twice handled serious emergencies by landing the microlight ac safely after engine failure in the air. His unit was adjudged as the best Air Sqn in NCC at the Prime Minister's Rally 1995.

For distinguished service of high order the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Gp Capt Kuldip Singh Rana.

Gp Capt Vivek Kumar Chopra was commissioned as a Fighter Pilot in the Indian Air Force on 12 June 1971. His excellence in professionalism earned him the nomination for Qualified Flying Instructor (QFI) course at rather young age. Thereafter, he was selected for Fighter Combat Leader Course. To make full use of his experience, the officer was specially selected as Directing Staff at the Tactics and Combat Development and Training Establishment (TACDE). He also held the appointment of Flying Inspector at Directorate of Air Staff Inspection. Gp Capt Chopra commanded a MiG-21 BIS Fighter Squadron (Sqn) in Western Sector. He ensured a high standard of training and discipline and the Sqn displayed exceptional flight safety record during his command tenure. This can be seen from the facts that the Sqn was adjudged amongst the best two Sqns in Western Air Command in flight safety. All pilots were made fully operational and despite the shortage of spares the Sqn flew more than 6000 sorties during 1989-91, which was the highest flown by any fighter sqn in IAF.

Currently, Gp Capt Chopra is discharging the responsibilities of Deputy Director Personnel (Officers) at Air HQ. In dealing with the great variety of cases in this key assignment, Gp Capt Chopra has displayed dynamism and bold initiative. The most significant contribution by him has been in updating existing personnel policies, ushering in computerisation in the key areas of this Directorate and carrying out in-depth studies in the case of manpower planning and their training. With his dogged perseverance, analytical and incisive mental facilities, Gp Capt Chopra has been able to take all the matters pertaining to his work situation to their logical conclusion.

For distinguished service of high order the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Gp Capt Vivek Kumar Chopra.