Group Captain Anup Kumar Patnaik (15295) AE (L) was commissioned on 04 Jan 1978. In 28 years of distinguished service, he has held several field and staff appointments. The officer w.e.f. 01 Oct 04 is on the posted strength of Air Force Station Jorhat, as Chief Engineering Officer (CEO).

A highly qualified and experienced engineer on aircraft, electronic warfare and signals intelligence, the officer, in his 28 years of service, commanded a Ground Electronic Surveillance Unit, set up the Engineering Faculty for Aeronautical Engineer's ab-initio training at Air Force Academy as the first Chief Instructor and held important appointments at Air Headquarter including Joint Director Operations (Information & Electronic Warfare) and as Director Engineering 'B'for non-Russian transport aircraft and helicopters. The officer interfaced Electronic Cipher Line machines with Personal Computers in 1991 for which he was commended by the CAS in 1992.

On taking over as CEO Jorhat, he focused his attention on building up AN-32 serviceability, which, at that time, was only 44 %. He was able to recover five out of eight AOG aircraft within twelve months from the two AN-32 Squadrons on the base. Through liaison with Base Repair Depots, Equipment Depots, Command Headquarters and Air HQ and non stop effort at the Air Force Station, average serviceability crossed 80% by March 06. By Apr 06, both squadrons had independently achieved 100 % serviceability. The officer then took on a seemingly impossible task. He planned availability of 20 ac out of the 24 from both Squadrons, to enable a record breaking 20 ac fly past, unprecedented for the AN-32 fleet of the IAF. With ingenuity, planning, and relentless hard work, he achieved the unprecedented. On 31 May 06, both the Squadrons flew 10 AN-32s each in two formations, making history for the Air Force Station, Jorhat and for the transport fleet of the IAF.

The officer's achievements extended to all aspects of engineering on the Wing. He was instrumental in carrying out a major BEML wheel dozer repair locally by retrieving spares from a BER vehicle of Air Force Station Kalaikunda saving Rs 11 lakhs to the exchequer. He installed inverter lights on both sides of the main runway, to cater for failure of the commercial power supply until the DG set took over the load. By personal liaison with EAC and Air HQ, he ensured despatch of 300 life expired heavy bombs by road to stock holding depot, a task pending for the last two years due to non-availability of railway wagons. The Instrument Landing System on the Station had been unserviceable since 1998, and all attempts to obtain spares had failed. Using existing components, he ensured that it was made serviceable on 01 May 06 and has remained serviceable since then. Serviceability of navigational aids and communication equipment, vehicles etc were maintained at 98-99% for the past one year despite their vintage. His inspired leadership, sustained hard work and professional pride instilled in his engineering team, made these outstanding achievements possible.

For his outstanding contributions, foresight, personal involvement and distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Anup Kumar Patnaik.

Group Captain Yugal Kishore Negi (15351) Lgs was commissioned on 08 Jun 78. He has varied experience in the field of logistics and has been excelling in all aspects of his profession as well as administration. He has held several important appointments which include Chief Logistics Officer (CLO) of two premier Base Repair Depots (BRD), Senior Logistics Officer of a flying base, Asst Dir Purchase, Dy Chief Examiner at GEB, OC of MC/MF Dett and SO to AOC-in-C, MC, IAF. Ever since taking over the command of Equipment Depot in Kanpur, the officer due to his dynamic vision and forward planning has been actively engaged in extensive planning and timely procurement to meet the production targets of the BRDs.

The officer has demonstrated outstanding managerial qualities and vision in steering the multifarious logistics activities during his CLO tenures. The BRDs were able to achieve their task in desired time frame due to his foresightedness, and ability to maintain uninterrupted supply of spares on account of timely periodical reviews and their constant monitoring. His dedicated contributions helped to synergise the various techno-logistics activities of the depot, and his invaluable contributions in all spheres helped 11 BRD in achieving the 'Best BRD Trophy' for two consecutive years. Besides, the overall satisfaction level of demands of field units enhanced manifold.

With his exceptional leadership qualities, as CO of Equipment Depot he has been able to motivate and get all his personnel to work towards his vision, which has resulted in proactive logistics support. Non-moving inventory worth Rs. 288.32 crores was gainfully identified and utilised during his tenure. In addition, a saving of Rs. 12,21,465/- accrued to the state on account of effective utilisation of his knowledge on purchase matters. The depot under his able leadership was awarded the "Best ED" trophy for the year 2005. The officer is socially and militarily impeccable. He positively bonds the work environment and the air-warrior fabric.

For his outstanding professional acumen, exemplary dynamism, dedication and distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Yugal Kishore Negi.

Group Captain Divakar Paul Upot (15544) F (P) was commissioned as a pilot in the Flying Branch on 30 Dec 78. He has held the appointments of the CO of a fighter squadron, Directing Staff at TACDE and College of Air Warfare and the Chief Operations Officer (COO) of a premier flying base. The officer is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy. He did his post graduation in Military Studies from the College of Defence Management.

As COO of Air Force Station Adampur, the officer earned a reputation for himself for his proactive approach and vision. He worked tirelessly to provide a safe flying environment with improved quality of flying and handled numerous Air exercises professionally that kept the combat units at the base in a high state of operational readiness. This resulted in the station being declared as the Best Operational Wing for two consecutive years.

Gp Capt Upot was specially selected to serve as Staff Officer to the Chief of the Air Staff in Jan 05. As Staff Officer, he was instrumental in meticulous planning of the daily programme/appointments of the CAS, visits within and outside the country, preparation of visit reports, speeches, addresses and various other activities that ensured smooth functioning of the Secretariat. His professional competence and managerial skill was at work in the secretariat as not only he himself worked relentlessly to perfection but guided other Staff Officers and Staff to follow his footsteps.

For his distinguished service of a high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Divakar Paul Upot.

Group Captain Prabir Chakraborty (15632) AE (L) was commissioned on 01 Jan 79 in the Engineering Branch of IAF. In the 27 years of distinguished service, he has held several important assignments that include Senior Technical Officer at Institute of Aviation Medicine and Command ADGES Maintenance Officer at HQ Maintenance Command before taking over as Director ADGES (Radar) at Air HQ.

The officer is trained on THD-1955 Radars, which is the backbone of Air Defence in the IAF. He has been intensively involved during the installation of three THD radars and has had extensive tenures in THD Radar units in various capacities. His professional acumen combined with vast knowledge, hands-onexperience and competence has resulted in betterment of the THD systems in the IAF.

Major overhaul and upgradation of THD1955 is a highly skill oriented and intricate technical activity demanding extensive coordination, monitoring and correction. The activity used to be completed in a period of 6-8 months. During Sep 05, the officer, drawing upon his skills and expertise, evolved an ambitious plan of carrying out overhaul of these radars and their upgradation together in an integrated manner. By utilising appropriate management and production techniques, he was able to get the task completed in just three months, thus preparing a new template for such an activity. This not only increased the radar availability in the IAF but also resulted in significant saving of manpower. His singular skills and expertise have resolved numerous technical snags in the system. His experience in the system has also led to avoiding over-provisioning, which would have led to unnecessary expenditure and non-moving stocks.

The officer is a thorough professional, highly motivated and has tremendous ability to impart knowledge to others. He is a good organiser and has organised numerous workshops on the system for enhancing field-level knowledge and skill. He has repeatedly exhibited singularly laudable performance, which has enhanced Air Defence capabilities of IAF.

For his distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Prabir Chakraborty.

Group Captain Ravinder Sharma (15646) AE (M) was commissioned on 01 Jan 79 in the Engineering branch of the IAF and is presently on the posted strength of Air Force Station Palam since 01 Dec 03. In 27 years of distinguished service, he has held several important staff and field appointments that include Senior Technical officer (STO) of Mi-35 attack helicopter squadrons, CO of two Training Schools, Senior Engineer (Mechanical) of a fighter base and joint director for helicopter maintenance at Air HQ.

Whilst being the STO of Mi-25 Helicopter Squadron (Sqn) in Oct 87, the officer was entrusted with the challenging responsibility of deploying the Sqn for overseas operations as part of IPKF at a very short notice. Under trying circumstances in the unfamiliar terrain, the officer handled the whole gamut of complex operations diligently with unflagging zeal. As a result, his resourcefulness blended with technical expertise stood the Sqn in good stead in maintaining an accident/incident free record during the entire tenure with IPKF.

Owing to the exceptional professional acumen, he was one amongst few officers who were selected to undergo maintenance conversion course on Mi-35 helicopters in erstwhile USSR in Sep 89. On return he was instrumental in erection and subsequent induction of Mi-35 helicopters to the Air Force inventory. As STO of Mi-35 helicopter Sqn, he designed and indigenized few test equipment and simplified servicing procedures for which he was commended by the Chief of Air Staff in Jan 95. As the CO of the Workshop Training Institute (WTI), he created high quality training facilities and documents which paved the way towards recognition of training at WTI equivalent to Engineering diploma by the All India Council of Technical Education.

The officer was appointed as Chief Engineering Officer of Air Force Station Palam on 01 Dec 03. Since then, Station's impeccable record of accident free flying of over 20,000 hrs stand as a mute testimony to the officer's leadership qualities, exhaustive technical skills and devotion to duty. With his charismatic personality, he carried the whole team in synergy towards realization of the organizational goals. This was amply evident when Dornier aircraft of the Station not only achieved 100% serviceability after a gap of 20 years but also sustained it for one month. He also played a pivotal role in induction of Embraer aircraft in the IAF for VVIP role and setting up its type training facilities at this station in record time. The officer created an environment of technical excellence in the station that prompted a series of innovations which included design and fabrication of mini tarmac sweeping machine, ac washing rigs and onboard work station for operating special equipment on Dornier ac. During Air Force Day Parade 2005, the officer with imaginative innovations, conceptualized and created an exceptional parade backdrop, which was highly appreciated and won the Air Force many accolades from the sister services as well civil dignitaries.

For his distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Ravinder Sharma.

Group Captain Shirish Baban Deo VM (15681) F (P) commissioned as a fighter pilot in the IAF, had stood first in flying and went on to accumulate over 3900 accident free flying hours. He has been the Directing Staff at Flying Instructor School and Tactics and Air Combat Development Establishment. An exceptional professional, he has shown impeccable performance in the field. He has won trophies in every gunnery meet he has participated. For his exceptional devotion to duty, he has been awarded VM in 01.

At Air HQ, he was responsible for the design, planning and implementation of the Air HQ Operations Centre, an excellent design which has been replicated at National and Command HQs level. As the member secretary of the Chiefs of Staff Committee on Air Defence programme he helped in focusing the strategy. As Chief Operations Officer at Air Force Station Pathankot he designed the Graphical User Interface and Algorithms for the Campus Area Network - a break through towards IT automation at no cost to the organisation.

On taking over Signals Unit (SU), he conceived, designed and implemented a method to pass the latest weather radar picture to over 2950 users on WACNET. This was done entirely from the existing resources without any expenditure. He also conceived, designed and led the team that produced the Radar Data Extraction and Display Software without any expenditure of Public funds. This software enables extraction of radar data and its display at remote locations. Cost of such software and its implementation in the commercial market is millions of dollars. The software also permits remote Simulated Intercepts thus avoiding large expenditure on frequent temporary duties of Fighter Controllers. The officer also designed and developed a large area smoke generator, using components of obsolete systems, that performs as well as the foreign make smoke generators costing Rs 5.65 Crores. He was instrumental in developing a GPS Jammer noise source that can be used to jam hostile missiles using GPS.

Radar at the SU has shown significantly improved availability by reviewing the maintenance schedule under his leadership. Radar maintenance and quality control software developed by him enables fine tuning of the radar parameters. He has also brought about a sea change in the Station Administration.

For his distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Shirish Baban Deo VM.

Group Captain Sudhanshu Rath (15726) F (P) was commissioned in the flying branch of the IAF on 03 Dec 79. He is a Qualified Flying Instructor, Instrument Rating Instructor and Examiner (IRIE) and a graduate from Defence Service Staff College. He has over 3000 hours of fighter flying to his credit and has been flight commander of three fighter squadrons. He has been in the operational staff at a Command HQ. While working as the Command Flight Safety Officer, he developed an Operational Risk Management matrix for all types of aircraft which went a long way in enhancing flight safety. He also introduced the concept papers for Air Warrior Team and Multi-Skilling, which were further institutionalized and extended to all the Commands of the IAF.

During the last two years, he has been the Chief Operations Officer at the highest operational airfield in the world. He has worked incessantly with exceptional devotion to duty under trying circumstances and brought about significant enhancement in the operational efficiency of the base. He established a very strong bond of mutual support with the associated Army Corps, para-military forces and civil administration of Leh and Kargil and thereby became a single point contact for all these agencies in time of need. Also, he shouldered the additional responsibility of officiating as the Station Commander of the base for over six months continuously. He managed the station creditably and today all officers of the station look up to him for advice and guidance on varied matters. His personal efforts in managing with reduced strength of officers and handling of certain critical situations at the station have been highly appreciated by Command HQs and all the visiting senior officers. Apart from this, his presentations on Air Force activities and interaction with all the visiting teams from various training institutions from within the country and abroad, have been of a very high order, thus projecting a good image of the IAF. Through his personal involvement and drive, he also ensured that the air maintenance task of the base was expeditiously achieved and the highest ever tonnages were achieved for two successive years.

For distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Sudhanshu Rath.

Group Captain Chandalingappa Sannachandappa Havaldar (16256) Adm/ ATC was commissioned in the IAF on 13 Dec 80 and has been on the posted strength of premier fighter Station wef 19 Jul 04 as the Chief Administrative Officer. He has held key appointments like Directing Staff (Adm) in Air Force Academy and Air Force Administrative College and JD Air Staff Inspection (Adm) at Air HQ in the past.

In AF station Srinagar, the officer has made persistent efforts to improve the admin services and initiated a number of projects to improve the quality of life of personnel. His judicious utilization of Human Resources has ensured the proper monitoring of the works services and the completion of jobs such as stabilized power supply, water filtration plant, hot water plants etc. He has ensured optimum management of the Non-Public Funds to build up the infrastructures at the station.

This station had to undertake massive relief operations in Kashmir valley following two natural disasters - one of unprecedented snowfall in February 2005 and the other of a massive earthquake in October 2005. During both these relief operations the station had to manage totally undefined and new administrative challenges where the officer performed as the lynchpin of the operations. For the first time in its history the IAF adopted four earthquake affected villages at the Indo-Pak border. Once the relief operations got over the station was tasked to undertake complete rehabilitation of about 600 families in these villages amidst a situation of security threat. It was under the officer's supervision that all the measures of development of infrastructures and distribution of rations were conducted.

For his distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Chandalingappa Sannachandappa Havaldar.

Group Captain Archan Kumar Bhattacharya (16322) AE (M) was commissioned on 05 Jan 81. He has held several important appointments during his career. As Chief Engineering Officer (CEO) of premier Wing, the Wing was adjudged 'Best in Maintenance' in EAC. As Senior Technical Officer of Sqn, he was instrumental in achieving above average in maintenance during DASI and the Sqn earned "The Best Fighter Sqn in SWAC". He was commended by AOC-in-C for these.

As CEO of Air Force Station Kalaikunda, he brought up the serviceability of MiG-27 aircraft considerably and was directly involved in achieving 100% serviceability for 18 Sqn in Dec 05. Besides, he has a distinctive thrust on self-help approach by utilising the Station workshop. Under his able guidance, a fixture for replacement of wing sealing panel for MiG-27 ac was successfully fabricated and thus completely eliminated the requirement of HAL assistance on these issues. This innovation not only saved the money to exchequer but also reduced the down time of aircraft. His accomplishments further include prompt and planned recovery of prolonged AOG ac, fabrication of Landing Gear Flushing Rig, optimum utilisation of Structural Repair Bay, extensive repairs/modifications of MT vehicles, recovery of two downgraded MRS and overhauling of BEML tractor thus saving large amount of money to the exchequer.

His obsession to improve aircraft maintenance standards continuously did not deter him from focusing his attention on other technical activities. Due to his active involvement, approach lights, runway lead in lights and ORP lights could be made operational after being unserviceable for close to a decade. His initiative and constant hard work brought up the standard of Maintenance Control and Co-ordination Flight to a 'Centre of Excellence' which deserve a special mention.

All the tasks allotted to maintenance Group were completed successfully well in time prior to Exercise COPE INDIA 05 and S1NDEX 06. An effective maintenance support was provided to foreign and IAF sqns which was appreciated by one and all. This would not have been possible without his immaculate planning, positive attitude and effective leadership towards achieving the goal. The same was also appreciated during CASI and DASI visits. The overall assessment for Maintenance Support Group by DASI was Av Plus, while being assessed Above Average in number of other sections. Armament Sqn being one of those sections has now been designated as "Centre of Excellence" by HQ EAC.

Apart from his professional jobs, he was entrusted to bring up the standard of Officers' mess and Officers' Institute to a desired level to meet the requirements of EX COPE INDIA 05 and Republic of Singapore Air Force operating from this base. Officers' Mess, Living-in accommodation and Institute has been brought up to an international standard which was highly appreciated by the IAF and foreign delegations.

For distinguished service of a high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Archan Kumar Bhattacharya.

Wing Commander Devi Prasad Pani (16428) Adm/FC was commissioned on 11 Jun 81 in the Administration branch of the IAF. He is a graduate from Defence Services Staff College and a Category AYE Master Fighter Controller. The officer has held important assignment of Chief Operations Officer of an Air Defence direction Center for two years and Joint Director air Staff Inspection at Air HQ for four years. For his dedication and devotion to the service he has been commended by the Chief of the air Staff in 1996 and 2004. Currently he is posted as commanding Officer of Air Defence College, Air Force since 2004.

On assuming the command, with his innovative idea he submitted a detailed proposal for designing an Air Defence Simulator which would facilitate in providing realistic practical training and result in saving a huge sum of money required for flying effort. The simulator is now ready to be inducted in the IAF. This simulator would not only bring in qualitative improvement in the training standard but would also increase the operational potential of the Air Defence crew. The IAF would, now be saving a huge amount of costly flying hours which was required for training activities. This simulator has given the IAF a quantum jump in its potential. This effort of officer speaks volumes about his vision, dedication and insatiable desire for progress.

Keeping in mind the current and anticipated requirements of Air Defence, he has not only revised all the syllabus but has made the training programme more interactive and participate. These visible changes have been consistently appreciated by all dignitaries. Due to his sound planning, various courses with large intake of officers have been successfully and smoothly conducted at this college. This officer is an asset to the IAF and his virtues are worth emulating.

For his distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Devi Prasad Pani.

Wing Commander Ashok Kumar Sharma (16460) Accts was commissioned on 11 Jun 81 in the Accounts Branch of the IAF. During his career, the officer had held the appointments of Senior Accountant Officer at various stations, Joint Directorate of Admin Inspection and worked as an instructor in two officer training establishments. He is presently posted as the Chief Instructor, Accounts Faculty at Air Force Administrative College (AFAC).

The officer assumed the additional responsibility at Training Coord Officer (TCO) since Mar 05. During the same period, AFAC was tasked to restructure the generic training for offices in the IAF into a Distance Education cum Contact Programme pattern. The task devolved on the office of the TCO. He handled this additional task with a focused vision.

The officers' task in the initial stages was to compare the existing pattern of training to those planned for change. Distance Education as a concept did not have any template within the three services to emulate. With no baggage of the past to refer, the officer proactively interacted with different organisations such is IGNOU, ICFAI, etc to create a template which convincingly helped AFAC to move ahead.

The result of officer's unswerving dedication and perseverance was that, AFAC could create not only the parent document, establish the training infrastructure, create the courseware and implement the scheme in a short period of six months. This is a laudable and a proud achievement by any standards and the credit justifiably goes to the officer. He has been so thorough and professional in his approach that the action document he created is now serving as the foundation for restructuring other professional courses at AFAC.

For his distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Ashok Kumar Sharma.

Group Captain Gedela Raveendranath (16985) F (P) was commissioned in 1AF as a fighter pilot in Dec 82. He is a qualified flying instructor, an Instrument Rating Instructor and Examiner, a graduate of Defence Services Staff College and Naval Higher Command Course. During 23 years of service, he has flown over 3800 hrs on various fighter and trainer ac. He was awarded commendation by Chief of the Air Staff and Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Western Air Command for devotion to duty and exemplary service in the years 2001 and 1999 respectively. He commanded a MiG-23 Squadron and has been serving as the Chief Operations Officer of Air Force Station Jodhpur since 06 Sep 04.

Jodhpur is one of the busiest airfields of the Indian Air Force with five flying and three Ground Based Air Defence units permanently based and one to two additional units on detachment. The average flying undertaken in a year by units from the airfield is in excess of 6500 hrs and the air traffic support services remain operational for 18 hours a day to cater to military and civil flights. The officer, owing to his inspiring leadership and keen foresight, was able to ensure safe and smooth conduct of all flying related activities during this period. He was also the Chief co-coordinator for a series of Command and sector level exercises including Army-AF cooperation exercises. He meticulously planned and coordinated these exercises which demanded long working hours and intense work load during the conduct. All detachments at base and flying activity by the units based at Air Force Station Jodhpur were accorded similar professional involvement to ensure that all objectives were achieved. His contribution to the cause of flight safety was immense in ensuring practically nil environment and support related incidents and accidents during his period.

Being the largest Air Force Station of the IAF with a large number of lodger units, foresight and vision were essential in the planning of various work services for modernisation and upgradation of operational assets. The officer efficiently tackled the mammoth task of identifying the key areas and ensuring successful completion of the upgrade. Through his experience, knowledge, leadership and hard work, he provided a very motivating, inter-disciplinary influence on operational, maintenance and administrative environment of the Station and was instrumental in the station winning the best in Operations in South Western Air Command in the year 2004.

For his distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Gedela Raveendranath.

Wing Commander Anup Kumar Varshneya (17077) Edn/PJI was commissioned on 29 Dec 82 in the Education branch of IAF. During his 24 years of service he has held important field and instructional appointments which includes security officer of forward air field, Para Jump Instructor at PTS Agra, Chief Instructor at Aviation Research Centre, WTI, AF and ATI, AF. He is presently posted as Joint Director (Garud) at Air HQ with effect from 30 June 2003.

The officer is a Para Jump Instructor with vast experience. His contribution towards training Army personnel in night free fall is well recognized. He holds the national record for Canopy Relative Work and has a mention in Limca book of world record for highest altitude Jump from 28,000 AMSL. He has successfully innovated and pioneered the development of the popular diamond formation. He has also participated in joint exercises with Combat Free Fall team of USA. His achievements in Para trooping have been par excellence. He has more than 1450 jumps to his credit.

The officer was responsible for the uphill task of conceptualization, planning and raising of the Special Forces of IAF whose philosophy, ethics and doctrine were hitherto unfamiliar to IAF. Faced with this mammoth task, with commendable dispatch, professional maturity and visionary zeal he set about his task. It is due to his indefatigable enthusiasm that the prestigious training facility of "Garud Regimental Training Centre" was established with several novel features. The officer tirelessly monitored and coordinated the operational training of Garuds with SF of Army, NSG and SFF in such a manner that enabled the newly inducted Garuds to achieve operational status within shortest span of time.

The officer contributed immensely to the development of a Joint Operational training Philosophy and helped the Garuds to achieve at par rating with other more seasoned SF Forces. Due to his exemplary efforts, the onerous task of operationally scheduling, training and deploying Garud flights at operational bases in J&K Sector become a spic and span activity. Notwithstanding the meager preparatory time available, he fine-tuned the capability of Garuds to lethal and precision operations in a risk-prone environ ment, when the Govt directed to dispatch a Garud flight to Congo as part of the UN Peacekeeping Mission.

For his pioneering and yeoman contribution to the training of 'Garuds' Special Forces of IAF, his organizing ability, initiative and distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Anup Kumar Varshneya.

Group Captain Diptendu Choudhury (17335) F (P) was commissioned in the IAF on 22 Dec 83 and has been on the posted strength of the Dte of Air staff Inspection wef 26 Jun 04. The officer has approximately 3000 hours of active fighter flying and is current with 'Master Green' rating on MiG-21 (T-75 & 96), MiG-29 and SU-30 aircraft. He has commanded a fighter squadron, worked as staff at TACDE and had been the Chief Operations Officer of a fighter base prior to being posted as Joint Director Flying at the Dte of Air Staff Inspection.

The officer has immensely contributed towards making the IAF more effective. His thought provoking service papers on Review of Op Employment of SU-30 aircraft, Op Capability of MiG-29 aircraft, Imperatives of Future Fighter Operations and Rebasing Concept have been well appreciated at all levels. The officer has also put in dedicated work towards revising inspection procedures, improvement in inspection pattern, interactive visits to Air/Command HQ and DG's review during AF Commanders' Conference.

An extremely hard working and sincere officer who has been professionally well groomed as a fighter pilot. The officer had to shoulder the responsibility as a Director for almost a year and was therefore, in the centre stage during all inspections. Single-handed he planned and co-ordinated the conduct of 'Best Combat Unit' competition of Fighter Sqns in the most professional manner and has been the active member of the Flying Team while inspecting Wings and Sqns. The vast and varied flying experience of the officer would be a dream for any Air Defence pilot, yet his unassuming but firm display of professional attributes is a true reflection of a thorough bred professional. The Director General Staff Instructions was last revised in the year 1999. The officer took it upon himself to undertake the mammoth task of its revision and re-issue. The list of contributions made by the officer for improvement in work efficiency and operational thinking to make the IAF more effective is never ending.

For his outstanding professional competence, extreme dedication and distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Diptendu Choudhury.

Wing Commander Ravi Sharma (17785) Lgs was commissioned in the Logistics Branch on 21 Dec 84 and is presently posted as the Senior Logistics Officer Air Force Station, New Delhi since 21 Jun 03.

The officer was seconded to Navigation branch during 1988-95, where in he flew almost 4000 hrs as navigator, which is the highest among his peer group. Thereafter while posted at Air Headquarters, he was at the forefront in indegenisation and installation of first arrester barrier system for which he was commended by the Chief of the Air Staff. Further, during his tenure as Senior Logistic Officer and Senior Administrative Officer at Kumbhigram, the station was adjudged as the best administered station in Eastern Air Command.

The officer during the present appointment was tasked to equip eight UN missions to Congo and Sudan in a short span of last two and half years. Meeting the deadlines was crucial. His judgment of situation and meticulous planning enabled him to develop concept of forming a cell to equip foreign missions which earned accolades from all echelons of UN and Air Force. He closely interacted with more than 150 vendors including the Original Equipment Manufacturers situated in various parts of the country and reduced the lead time to meet the deadline without compromising on quality and cost. The task involved meticulous planning, forecasting and persuading agencies, finding the source of equipment, its serviceability, packing and safe transit of 13000 lines/3000 tons of spares to its final destination in Congo. The officer also played a stellar role in design and development of winter over wear (leather jacket), aircrew brevets and 30 other accoutrement items which resulted in reduction in cost as well as increase in life.

With his personal example, he has been able to bring in an attitudinal change in the personnel under him resulting in proactive logistics support. The challenging task of ration issue at Delhi area has been efficiently met by him. He was instrumental in successful implementation of Clothing Online Information System, which is of immense help to over 7500 air warriors of Delhi area. It reduced their unnecessary movement for entitlement check and collection. His efforts in planning and forecasting spares requirement has yielded in saving of 30 % (Rs 35 Lakhs) in Mechanical Transport spares expenditure by procuring genuine spares from Original Equipment Manufacturers/authorized out lets. His professional competence, administrative acumen and leadership qualities make him a role model for others to emulate.

For his distinguished service of high order, exemplary dedication to service, unlimited enthusiasm and efficient management capabilities, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Ravi Sharma.

Wing Commander Pankaj Mohan Sinha (17842) F (P) was commissioned on 14 Jun 85. He is presently posted to Air HQ (DPO) as the JDPO-l (F). He is a A-2 QFI, Fighter Strike Leader and IRIE. He is the graduate of DSSC and has undergone the Air Weapons Controllers Courses and bagged two trophies at DSSC. He was awarded the 'Top Graduate' in the course at USA. He has served as a DS at TACDE.

The officer commanded a fighter Sqn from 11 Nov 02 to 19 Jul 04. His personal involvement and sound leadership had enabled the Sqn to achieve a high degree of excellence. Due to runway re-surfacing at parent base, the Sqn Operated for more than a year at Purnea. Fighter flying was carried out for the first time from this base. The Sqn under his leadership set up the flying operations at the base and conducted full fledged operations with limited support services. Notwiths tanding the trying circumstances, the Sqn was selected from EAC to participate in the 'Best Fighter Sqn' competition for 2004-05. DASI particularly commented upon the high espirit-de-corps and cohesiveness of the Sqn during the Vayu Spradha competition.

In his present appointment as the JDPO 1 (F), he has utilized his vast experience to bring about a quantum change in the area of human resource management, He has balanced the service requirements and individual needs in a mature manner. He has flawlessly conducted the Sqn Cdrs and Flt Cdrs Board and lateral communication with all Op-directorates, which has greatly enhanced the quality of staff work and has worked with commitment towards career planning of junior officers. With his deep understanding of Flying Operations and Flying Safety, he initiated the process for placement of SFSIOs by selection/merit. This has been greatly appreciated by the organi zation, since this would have a salutary effect on Flight Safety management. The officer has been instrumental in formulating the Human Resource Policy for Weapon System Operators and for induction of UAV pilots. He has provided valuable inputs through research and his own knowledge. Recently he underwent a course at Joint Forces Staff College in USA, wherein he earned laudatory evaluations from the Directing Staff. The course report especially remarked upon his exceptional oral and written communication skills, outstanding leadership and high degree of professionalism.

For his distinguished service of a high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Pankaj Mohan Sinha.

Wing Commander Subramanian Sundar Rajan (17848) F (P) was commissioned on 14 Jun 85 in the Flying Branch of the IAF. In the past 21 years of distinguished service, he has held several important field appointments which include Flight Commander of Fighter Sqn, Squadron Commander of a Fighter Training Unit, Station Flight Safety and Inspection Officer of a Fighter Base and Commanding Officer of a Pechora Missile Sqn. He is a Qualified Flying Instructor and a graduate of the Defence Services Staff College.

As the Flight Commander of a Fighter Sqn, he performed creditably and ensured timely completion of flying task with utmost safety, without compromising on the training standards. As a Station Flight Safety and Inspection Officer of a Fighter Base, he ensured high standards of safety in operations and maintenance. Due to his sustained efforts, the Station was able to reduce the number of incidents and had no accident. His efforts also helped the Station in being adjudged Above Average in Flight Safety. The officer exhibits cool temperament when faced with critical emergencies in the air. He carried out a safe forced landing of a jet trainer with a seized engine and a safe ejection from a MiG-21 trainer aircraft on fire, during the critical stage of takeoff.

The officer was appointed the Commanding Officer of a Pechora Missile Squadron on 02 Aug 04. On taking over command of the unit, he laid great stress on improving the Op ability of the unit. Within a short span of six months, he ensured that all eligible combat crew were holding professional categories commensurate with their experience. DASI, during their inspection of the Sqn in Oct 05, highly appreciated the Op capability of the Sqn. Two combat Flights of the Sqn were adjudged Average Plus. Based on the highly commenda ble performance, DASI selected the Sqn as the Range Duty Sqn for conducting live Pechora missile firing at Weapons firing Range.

Under his able leadership, the Sqn successfully conducted live firing of all allotted Pechora missiles, without a single equipment or guidance failure, which is an achievement by itself. Though the unit deployed almost twenty days behind schedule, due to inordinate delay in rail transportation, he was able to marshal the personnel under him and motivate them to put in their best. This helped the unit to achieve a fully operational status well before the due date for firing, despite having mobilised two combat flights over a distance of 2000 km. With his purposeful planning, foresight and leadership, he was able to direct the personnel under him in achieving difficult and challenging tasks, while maintaining high morale.

For his distinguished service of a high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Subramanian Sundar Rajan.

293603 Master Warrant Officer (MWO) Rajinder Flt Gnr was enrolled in the Indian Air Force on 06 Oct 71 in Weapon Tech trade. He remustered to Flight Gunner trade in Apr 1982, since then he flew on various types of aircraft: Mi-17, Mi-8, AN-12 and IL-76 MD aircraft and has flown over 7200 hrs till date. He has flown extensively on IL-76 ac since he converted on type in 1986 and has clocked over 3200 hrs of operational flying on this strategic aircraft of IAF.

The MWO achieved Cat 'A' and supervisor on IL-76 within a short time after conversion. During his long tenure as an aircrew instructor, he has been instrumental in undertaking conversion training of several under trainee flight gunners on various types of aircraft, such as Mi-8, AN-12 and IL-76MD and thereby helped the organisation to improve its operational capability. The professional skill of the Master Warrant officer has been aptly recognised by various inspecting agencies, such as Aircrew Examination Board, Directorate of Air Staff Inspection team.

His professional skill, depth of knowledge and sense of responsibility were put to real test during the planning and execution of the Exercise Golden Eagle in 2005 along with the Mirage-2000 aircraft of the IAF to South Africa and back, which required meticulous planning and flawless transport support.

The MWO participated in various other exercises such as, OP Pawan, Brass Tack, Meghdoot, Vijay and Safed Sagar. MWO also participated for induction and de-induction of T-72 Main Battle tank to Jaffna and Leh. His dedication and effort were appreciated during Bhuj earthquake operation, Tsunami relief operation to Carnicobar, Chennai and during heavy snowfall relief operation in J&K. The sincere and wholehearted involvement of MWO went beyond the professional requirements from any flight gunners. His personnel conduct and bearing was par excellence. He motivated all other participating aircrew. His leadership capabilities were evident in his handling of all the responsibilities entrusted to him. The most important thing to mention here is the Master Warrant Officer achieved all this with a cheerful countenance in his soft spoken way throughout all exercises and relief missions.

For his professional excellence and distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Master Warrant Officer Rajinder.

616153 Master Warrant Officer (MWO) Raghubir Singh Paul MTD/PJI has been on the posted strength of Paratroopers Training School, Air Force since 13 Oct 78 and has been performing duties of Parachute Jump and Free Fall instructor.

The MWO is one of the pioneers who have earned the distinction of carrying out 1640 parachute jumps. This is a rare achievement particularly when it is without an incident or injury. This is indeed a landmark in para safety. His jumps include 1400 free fall and 240 static line jumps. He has jumped from 10

types of different aircraft using 12 types of parachutes. He is also a qualified Combat Free Fall Instructor and had undergone training with US Army Team during the joint Exercise "Badge Iroquois" held at PTS in Feb 1992.

The MWO was one of the team members who has jumped from 30,000 feet AGL. It should not be out of place to mention that jump from such a high altitude demands extreme physical fitness and very high morale as individual is exposed to hostile environment where in, temperature goes as low as minus 30 degree Celsius.

MWO is also the founder member of IAF Skydiving Team "Akashganga". The team has completed nineteen years of its glorious existence since its inception in 1987. He has participated in innumerable demonstrations put up by the team at various places to mark important national events. He is an expert in the discipline of canopy formations, which includes making the Tricolour stack and landing them inside stadiums and restricted drop zones.

He has been part of pioneer team member who for the first time in the history of Indian Parachuting History made Relative Work and Canopy Relative Work formation during the Night Free Fall. Due to his immense experience and skill he has participated in Malaysian Armed Forces Open Parachuting Championship held in Malaysia in May 1995.

For his distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Master Warrant Officer Raghubir Singh Paul.