Air Marshal Gyanendra Nath Kunzru, joined service on 1 November 1951 and qualified as a Specialist in Pathology in 1957. He obtained MD in 1965.

In November, 1979 he was posted as Commanding Officer of a Air Force Hospital in the Eastern Sector. By his dynamism, and leadership qualities he improved the standard of medicare and overall state of hospital.

After taking over as addl DGAFMS, he set himself to the task of reorganisation of the Office of DGAFMS. The implementation of the recommendations made by him will bring long term improvement in functional efficiency of the office of the DGAFMS. He has been an allround sportsman representing State teams in National Championships in three different games viz. Cricket, Tennis and Table-Tennis.

Air Marshal Brijpal Singh Sikand was commissioned in the IAF on 15 October 1950. He has held a number of field appointments including command of a fighter Squadron, Tactical Air Centre and two operational Air Bases with distinction. On promotion to the rank of AVM in January, 1981, he was appointed as Air Officer Commanding, Jammu & Kashmir. During his tenure as Assistant Chief of Air Staff, Flight Safety & Inspection, at Air HQ, he initiated policies which resulted in a decrease in the accident rate of the Air Force and ensured a safe flying environment. Later, on promotion to the rank of Air Marshal in November 1984, he was posted as Senior Air Staff Officer, (later re-designated as Chief of Staff) of a major Operational Command.

Air Marshal Surinder Kumar Mahra (4197) F (P) was commissiond in the IAF on 15 Nov 1952. He has held varied command and staff appointments including command of a supersonic fighter Squadron, two operational Bases, Director Air Staff Inspection, Director Personnel (officers) and Assistant chief of the Air Staff. In his outstanding fiying career, he has logged about 4000 hours on fighter aircraft. Under his inspiring leadership the supersonic Squadron which he commanded, achieved a high state of operational readiness and was awarded the Air Force Instrument Rating Trophy twice. In recognition of this achievement, he was awarded VM in 1971

On 22/23 Oct 75 the Air Base which he was commanding at that time, was hit by a cyclone, Air Marshal Mehra with complete disregard of his own safety personally guided rescue operations and saved a number of aircraft form total damage. For his high degree of leadership in minimising the damage he was awarded AVSM in 1976.

A graduate of Air Command and Staff College Course in USA, he has he has held the prestigious assignment of Directing Staff at Defence Service Staff College, Wellington. After a successful tenure as Air Attache in USSR he was posted as Director Operatios (Offensive) and was responsible for formulation of policy planning and contoral of the entire offensive operations of the Air Force. As Director Personnel (Officers) in the rank of Air Vice Marshal his mature and meticulous planning and inspiring leadership led to excellent execution of all the personal mangement functions relating to officers of Air Force, including career planning, promotions and placement. Later as Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Operations) with his deep understanding of all facets of air operations and dedicated hard work he significantly enhanced the overall operational preparedness of the Air Force.

On promotion to the rank of Air Marshal, he took over as Deputy Chief of the Air Staff at Air HQ. In this assignment he has continued to display qualities of extreme dedication and professional excellence. The smooth induction and absorption of the latest types of aircraft, weapons and sophisticated equipments is mainly attributable to his exception acumen for planning and clear perception of the long term operational requirements of the Air Force.

His continued record of brilliant performance over a career span of 35 years and dedicated contribution in all the appoinments held by him are in the best traditions of the IAF. Air Marshal SK Mehra has thus rendered long and distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Pynummoottil Simon George was commissioned in the flying branch of the Air Force in March 1952. In his long and distinguished career of over 34 years, he has held important command as well as staff appointments, including Command of a fighter- Squadron and an Operational Air Base. An experienced Flying Instructor, he was specially chosen for deputation to the UAR to impart flying training.

For displaying exceptional qualities of supervision and leadership, he was awarded AVSM in January, 1982.

In April 1984, he was specially chosen as the first Inspector General of the Air Force. This challenging assignment involves evaluation of the operational and combat worthiness of all elements of the Air Force and the supporting maintenance and administrative infrastructure. Air Marshal George, has set about his new task with zeal and purposefulness, in order to create impartial and objective evaluation machinery.

Air Marshal Chandrakant Shantaram Raje was commissioned in the Air Force in 1951. During his long and illustrious career he has held number of important operational, instructional and staff appointments.

For his meticulous planning and foresight in undertaking trials of transport aircraft and evolving new techniques for supply, dropping and landing in the most difficult and demanding landing grounds during the 1962 operations, he was awarded AVSM.

After completing his tenure as Operation Manager in Aviation Research Centre, he took over as Director General of Civil Aviation in January 1984. He was instrumental in restructuring and streamlining the organisation to meet the country's fast growing civil aviation requirements.

He also acted as an Adviser to the Government of India on policy am technical matter relating to civil aviation.

Air Marshal Nirmal Chandra Suri (4236) Flying (Pilot) was commissioned in the Flying Branch of the IAF in March,1952 and has hold importent Command and Staff appointmonts, including Command of two fighter Squadrons and two frontline fightor Air Bases, Director of Intelligence at Air Headquartoras, Senior Air Staff Officer of an Operational Command and Air Officer-incharge Personnel at Air HQ. He approached and executed duties of all those posts in a positive and noteworthy manner.

An outstanding fightor pilot, having logged over 5500 hours of flying, he is a Pilot Attack Instructor and Qualifed Flying Instructor holding an A-1 category. Due to his professional excellence he was posted as an Instructor to the Flying Instructors' School and later as an Examiner in the Aircrew Examining Board. He is also one of the founder members of the Directorate of Air Staff Inspection.

Air Marshal NC Suri was awarded the Vayu Sena Medal for personally supervisinng the modification for release of armament store from the type of aircraft in the Squadron he was commanding. This major modification not only enhanced the power of the IAF but also saved a large amount of foreign exchange. Subsquently, while commanding a major fighter base he set to work with commendable zeal and dedication and despite numerous difficulties achieved a high state of operational preparedness of the base. During his command, his Base won almost all the trophies instituted by the Command for 3 years continuously. For his outstanding leadership in flying and application of competent administrative and technical knowledge to enhance combat efficiency of the Station, he was awarded AVSM.

A graduate in Management Studies from Administrative Staff College, Hyderabad and also from National Defence College, he took over as Senior Air Staff Officer of a major Operational Command in February, 1912. As Senior Air Staff Officer ho was instrumental in enhancing the operational combat capability of various elements and thereby improved the operational preparedness of the Command.

On promotion to the rank of Air Marshal in 1985, he took over as Air Officer-in-charge Personnel at Air HQ. In this appointment, his sphere of responsibility covered a broad spectrum related to career profiles and promotion prospects of all personal of the IAF. By virtue of his vast experience analytical ability, foresight and able direction, he has given a new dimension to the employment and utilisation of manpower in the Air Force. He has continued to display rare qualities of leadership, professional competence and exceptional acumen for planning and execution of the task of his Branch.

Air Marshal NC Suri has thus rendered long and distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

On the 24th October, 1985, when Squadron Leader Pradeep Sharma was flying a night instructional sortie on Kiran aircraft along with his pupil, the engine of the aircraft suddenly failed due to material failure. Besides the total loss of power from the engine Squadron Ldr Sharma was also confronted with confusing engine instrument indications because of the very peculiar nature of failure. Displaying exemplary coolness and professionalism he correctly analysed the failure for which there was no remedial action. At this stage, any pilot would have been fully justified in abandoning the aircraft, which was over 35 km away from base, as a forced landing at night had never been attempted before. Had he chosen the apparently only possible option of abandoning the aircraft, besides the inevitable loss of the aircraft and probable ejection related injuries to pilots, valuable evidence as to why the engine failed would have been lost.

Relying on his consummate skills and inveterate professionalism, Squadron Leader Pradeep Sharma completely disregarded the perils to himself and carried out a successful forced landing at night in a copy book fashion without any damage to the aircraft.

Squadron Leader Pradeep Sharma thus rendered superlative professionalism, cool and profound courage in saving a valuable aircraft in utter disregard to his own safety.

Air Marshal Parameswaraiyer Venkatachalam lyer, Logistics, was commissioned in the Indian Air Force on 5 December, 1951.

He was specially selected as Assistant Air Attaché in the Indian Embassy, Moscow, an assignment he handled very competently. On his return from Moscow, he took over the Command of an Equipment Depot holding spares of all Russian aircraft which played an extremely vital role during the 1971 operations. Air Marshal lyer's distinguished services as a Commander of this Depot were recognised and he was awarded the Vishisht Seva Medal. Thereafter he commanded two more Equipment Depots. In both these units, he brought to bear the same qualities of leadership which enabled the Depots to improve their performance enormously.

He was appointed as Air Officer Logistics Management at HQ Maintenance Command in the rank of Air Commodore on 01 December, 1981. A notable achievement during this period was the formalisation of despatch of aero­engines by civil road transport, a method that has removed bottlenecks in the availability of aero­engines at the units.

On 1 February, 1984, he was elevated to the rank of Air Vice Marshal. He introduced total involvement of Air Force Liaison establishments with the rotables management to reduce the number of Aircraft Operationally Grounded in the Indian Air Force.

He pursued it further after taking over as Senior Maintenance Staff Officer, Maintenance Command in the rank of Air Marshal on 01 May, 1985. Due to his untiring efforts an exceptionally large number of AOGs were cleared in 1985-86.

Air Marshal Iyer's contribution in the field of sports and adventure activities has also been unique. He represented India in the first Asian Veterans Athletic Meet at Singapore in 1981 and won 5000 metre race thus boosting the image of IAF and the country. He was AVSM 1987 the originator and the guiding spirit behind the Air Force Anniversary Run from Agra to Delhi held in October 1985. He ran the entire distance leading 300 other participants. He was the Chairman Air Force Sports Control Board during the period 1984-85. His career has been saga of service to the Air Force and to the country. By total dedication, he has achieved a name for himself and the IAF.

Air Marshal Rajgopal Sriramulu Naidu Flying (Pilot), presently Senior Air Staff Officer, Headquarter Training Command, was commissioned on 16 June, 1951. Selected to do the prestigious Flying Instructors Course as a young officer, he attained a very high standard in ground as well as flying. He served as the Naval Air Attaché in Bangkok for a period three years.

On promotion to the rank of Air Commodore, he was Command of a prestigious Transport Wing. On appointment as Commandant, Air Force Academy in the rank of Air Vice Marshal, the Air Officer brought about improvements not only in the maintenance and training, but also in the quality of flying. During his tenure, the rate was one of the lowest and flight safety record amongst the best.

He was the first Air Officer to be selected to the prestigious appointment of Military Secretary to the President of India. His honesty, integrity and devotion to duty brought him very close not only to the President's aides and Secretariat but also the civil dignitaries in the Ministries. During this tenure, he was promoted to the rank of Air Marshal and yet retained by the President as Military Secretary for quite some time. This speaks highly of his credibility with the President.

Currently as Senior Air Staff Officer at HQ Training Command, he has initiated significant changes towards meeting the deadline set for achieving of assigned tasks, without compromising quality. He has encouraged extensive use of modern audio­visual aids and computers, thus matching the training to the demands of high technology of present day Air Force.

The intellectual brilliance, integrity, dedication and high leadership qualities make Air Marshal RS Naidu as an asset to the Air Force. He has never compromised standards and produced consistently excellent record of performance in all his appointments. Air Marshal RS Naidu has, thus, rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Parduman Krishan Puri was commissioned in the Flying (Navigation) Branch of the Indian Air Force in January 1953.

Air Marshal Puri joined National Defence College as Senior Directing Staff (Air) in January 1984. He has acquired deep knowledge of India's strategic environment, and appreciation of the geo­political factors. His most significant contribution has been in the areas of Science and Technology, Long Range Defence Planning and in the study of Economics of Indian Defence. His conceptual ability and inquisitive mind have enormously helped in enhancing the body of knowledge in these areas and in elevating the level of studies to a very high standard.

Air Vice Marshal Pothamsetti Prasanna Madhava, Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics), was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in October 1952. As a young Signals officer in a Transport Squadron in 1954, he improved the serviceability of the airborne electronics. On return from the U.K. where he was trained on Viscount aircraft, he was posted to Air Headquarter Communication Squadron and assigned the responsibility of setting up the complete servicing facilities for the airborne electronics of the Viscount fleet and five other types of aircraft operated by the squadron and for training of squadron personnel

The officer has held important appointments at the various Command Headquarters as Command Systems Officer, Command Signals Officer and Senior Maintenance Staff Officer.

Air Vice Marshal Pulaveri Srinivasa Rajagopalan Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force 5 April 1954.

He was specially chosen for various foreign courses and assignment such as training with Marconi in a radar equipment for Canberra Aircraft in U.K. Post Graduate Course in College of Aeronautics, Cranfield U.K., Acceptance Testing of High Power Amplifier of Air Defence Ground Environment System, Communications system in the USA, besides being detailed as contingent Commander, rear party of the UN assignment in Congo in 1962.

In 1978-79 as Senior Project Engineer, inCharge of System Technical Development in Radar and Communication Project Organisation conducted the Tethered Balloon experiment for metrological measurements, to identify a suitable location for installation of High Power Air Defence Radar.

In 1983, he took over the command of Air Force Station, Jalahali. He applied himself whole heartedly to bring about all round improvement in functional and administrative efficiency, as well as morale and welfare.

He took over as the Director of Signals at Air Headquarters in 1985. Immediately, he carried out a thorough review of the Policy and Plan of the systems and procedures in vogue with a view to asses their capability to assimilate the latest developments in the field of communication/electronics and ensure optimum utilisation in peace and war.

Some of his notable achievements include planning of a total integrated communication systems, dovetailed into the National Modernisation Plan of the Department of Telecommunications, evolving a secure Anti-jam Ground-toAir Communication system through updated spread spectrum techniques and solution to the long outstanding problem of development of an operationally viable system for Air to Air integration of fighter fleet without compromising equipment parameters.

He also carried out Data Communication capability assessment in ADGES­network AVSM 1987 and established the basic norms for evolving the system. He also conceived and developed Tactical Information Distribution System, incorporating Jam­resistant and secure Communication for large number of users in the Army, Navy and the Air Force.

AVM PS Rajagopalan has thus rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Vice Marshal Suresh Chand Flying (Pilot) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in October 1953. In his career of 33 years, he has held, with distinction, various appointments both in the field and at higher formations.

He was appointed Air II of an Operational Command, initially in the rank of Group Captain and subsequently in the rank of Air Commodore. During this tenure, he ensured optimal utilisation of the scarce transport resources. In January, 1983, he took over Command of an important Air Base. Under his inspiring leadership, the flying units at the Base were able to achieve their flying tasks and the serviceability of aircraft was maintained at high level. On promotion to the rank of Air Vice Marshal he took over as Senior Officerin­Charge, Administration of Training Command. He was later appointed SASO in the same Command.

By his high degree of professional competence and deep knowledge of flying training, he was able to enhance the quality of training at various training institutions in the Command. In April 1986, he took over as Director Training at Air Headquarters. He has continued to display qualities of clear thinking and professional excellence in this assignment.

AVM S Chand has, thus, rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Vice Marshal Abraham Mathews, Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics) was commissioned in the erstwhile Technical/ Signals branch in September, 1953. He has a total of 2200 active flying hours to his credit.

During March 1983 to June, 1985, he held the post of Air Officer Commanding of a major Maintenance base. His performance record and AOC of this large station, was excellent and during this period both the Base Repair Depots achieved 100% production.

He took over as Deputy Senior Maintenance Staff Officers of HQ MC in the rank of Air Vice Marshal. He was responsible for supervising functional aspects of all the aircraft, aero­engine and Electronic Base Repair Depots.

As a member of the 'La Fontain' Committee on Flight Safety, he has been instrumental in identifying the existing weaknesses in the training and development of technical personnel of the IAF and making valuable recommendations to overcome them.

Air Vice Marshal Abraham Mathews has, thus, rendered distinguished service order of an exceptional order.

Air Vice Marshal Surendra Nath Chaturvedi, Accounts, has been the Director of Accounts at Air Headquarters since June, 1984. His responsibilities include the formulation and monitoring of accounting policies in the Air Force, as also the higher management of all central non­public funds.

He is exceptionally competent, dedicated and results oriented officer. Because of his keen interest, many procedural changes have been implemented to ensure simplified and efficient rendition of accounting services. Audit objections have been kept at a minimum level, and all cases of personal hardship upon/ after retirement resolved expeditiously.

Air Vice Marshal Sukh Dev Mohan Flying (Pilot) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in March, 1954. He is a qualified Flying Instructor and Pilot Attack Instructor, had done the Long Defence Management Course and is a graduate of the National Defence College.

Air Vice Marshal Mohan is presently posted as Air-1 at Headquarter of an Operational Command where he is responsible for all fighter, bomber and Air Observation Post, Operations within the Command. He is directly involved in organising and conducting all Air exercises such as Joint exercises, Air Defence exercises and Early Warning exercises etc. In all these tasks, he has displayed a rare degree of maturity, devotion and dedication which has indeed been the hall­mark of his entire service career.

Air Commodore Parkash Singh Devgan was commissioned in the Army Medical Corps in September 1953 and seconded to the Air Force from the same date. He qualified as a paratrooper in 1955 and Commanded two paramedical flights upto 1958.

He was appointed as Commanding Officer No. 9 Air Force Hospital and Senior Medical Officer of a forward Air base during 1974-77 and did pioneering work for the fitness of the aircrew. As Principal Medical Officer of Headquarter Maintenance Command from June 1977-79, he organised effective medical cover and brought down the morbidity rate to the lowest level. The general health and the family welfare activities got an impetus in the Command which was adjudged the best in the Air Force. He was the first Air Force Medical Officer selected to undergo National Defence College course in 1980.

Gp Capt Avnish Kumar Verma, Dental, was commissioned in October 1960. He holds a Master's Degree in Dental and Oral Surgery and a Fellowship from the International Academy of Oral Surgeons of Denmark.

The Officer has commanded various Air Force Dental Centres with distinction. He was awarded a Certificate of Recognition by the Dental Digest Group in 1972 for developing specialized dental techniques. A specialist in Maxiilofacial Oral Surgery, he organised a Maxillofacial reconstructive facility at Air Force Hospital, Kanpur, during 1974-79. It was also due to his zeal and resourcefulness that the AVSM 1987-88 Hospital was able to set up a centre for Primary Ablative Surgery and Immediate Cosmetic and Functional Repair for orofacial cancer cases.

Gp Capt Raghavan Gopalaswami joined the IAF in 1959, and through successive tenures in the Defence Research Development Organisation over the period 1964-1976, he pioneered work which laid a strong foundation for the development of rocket propellant development in the country, for which he was awarded the Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM).

The officer was deputed by the DRDO to the Advanced Management programme of the Harvard University which he completed successfully. On his return, he provided leadership in preparation of the DRDO 5-year plan and in developing advanced computer­interactive decision support systems which helped in drawing up, for the first time of a comprehensive Manpower Plan for the DRDO.

This work also resulted in the development of an effective mathematical model and computer programme to help the Air Force decide on an optimum force­mix and force structure for the year 1995 and beyond.

Gp Capt R Gopalaswamy has, thus, rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

On the 8th March, 1986, while on a reconnaissance mission with the General Officer Commanding and the Brigade Commander on board aircraft flown by Lieutenant Colonel Vijay Kumar Sitaram, Flight Commander of an Air Observation Post Squadron, operating in forward area in Northern Sector was fired upon by the enemy with surface to air missiles. With reflex action and superb airmanship, he manoeuvred his aircraft out of the direction of the missile, missing it by inches. Totally unnerved he continued to take evasive action and landed safely.

A second reconnaissance was launched, with the Brigade Commander on board, to locate the site of the missile system. During the second mission, his mission was again engaged by ground fire. With his daring skill and superb airmanship reconnaissance was able to detect the enemy positions. After location, he got airborne again under enemy fire and conducted an accurate artillery shoot destroying the enemy position.

Lieutenant Colonel Vijay Kumar Sitaram thus displayed indomitable courage, a high degree of professional skill and devotion to duty of an exceptional order.

Bombay experienced incessant and very heavy rainfall on the night of 24th/25th June 85 which continued up to 1200 hours next day. Between 800 hours and 1200 hours Bombay received an unprecedented 378 mm of rainfall. This resulted in disruption of rail and bus services and no light vehicles could ply in most of the areas. Wing Commander Kannimangalam Vaidyanathan Seshadri of Air Force Station was only officer who managed to reach Air Force Station on that day.

When at about 0800 hours Wing Commander Seshadri noticed that the water level inside the Station Headquarters was rising rapidly, he sensed danger and displaying great presence of mind, he first rushed with all available personal to MES Power Station in order to cut of the power supply to the camp area. At that time the Power Station was having waist deep water and there was great danger of electrocution. Disregarding this danger and at great risk to his life Wing Commander Seshadri went in the Power House and personally put off electrical switches.

Having eliminated the grave danger of electrocution and fire due to short circuiting, the officer then set about the task of preventing the damage to service equipment. He marshaled the personal available to him to put at height Secret and Confidential publications, Stationary, rations and MT spares etc. He also arranged for food for the NCO's Mess and for the families who were marooned in the domestic area.

During these seven hours of unprecedented rainfall Wing Commander Kannimangalam Vaidyanathan Seshadri displayed unflinching courage and determination to prevent loss of life that could have resulted from the flood situation. His timely presence of mind saved costly equipment, document, rations, office furniture and stationary costing about 4-5 lakhs.

On 27th January, 1986 Flight Lieutenant Naseem Akhtar was detailed for an instructional story with a foreign trainee at a flying training base. Shortly after take off, while leaving circuit at 1300' above ground level, he experienced severe engine vibration. He took the correct action of throttling back the engine but in this process the engine flamed out. He then tried a hot re-light, while easing up, which provided to be of no avail. He promptly asked his pupil to eject keeping in view the low height. The pupil was hesitant and did not respond to instructions. At this stage Flight Lieutenant Naseem Akhtar would have been fully justified in ejecting himself, since any further delay would have jeopardized his own safety, in view of the low height. Completely disregarding the immediate danger to his own life he decided not to abandon his pupil into the hands of fate. He quickly went over the relight drill and the engine relit seconds before the impact with the ground. Opening full power he commenced a climb back towards base. However, shortly thereafter the engine flamed out again. Flt Lt Akhtar himself jettisoned the canopy and asked his pupil to eject. Not being sure of the pupil's reaction, he simultaneously attempted relight. This time, however the pupil ejected, but, even as he did so, the engine once again picked up, though at a very low height. He coolly assessed the situation and in spite of the high noise level in cock pit due to a jettisoned canopy and the unreliable engine, he landed the aircraft immediately and safely.

Flight Lieutenant Naseem Akhtar, at great peril to his own life, faced a totally unforeseen situation coolly and lived up to the loftiest ideals of human conflict. He not only saved the valuable life of his people but also brought back the aircraft safely.

Wing Commander Shrikant Prabhakar Puranik has been commanding one of the operational helicopter units in the northern sector since 09 Jan 84.

Throughout his present tenure as Commanding Officer, he has displayed leadership, organizing ability, dedication and devotion to duty of a very high order. Under his able leadership and guidance the unit has won many laurels. The unit under his command has accomplished more than 8600 hours of operational flying, most of it in the treacherous region of the Siachen Glacier. During the very first year of his Command, the unit won the Best Performance Helicopter Unit Trophy. Then again in the subsequent year the unit won the Best Operational Helicopter Unit Trophy. These achievements together with the enormous task of maintenance of the Army at the Siachen Glacier by the Helicopter Unit were, to a great extent, due to the ingenuity, hard work and exemplary leadership of Wg Cdr SP Puranik.

Wg Cdr Puranik has to his credit 4600 hours of accident/incident-free flying, including 920 hours during the present tenure. Of these, 540 hours have been flown in the Siachen Glacier alone, where he has not only operated with skill and confidence but has also trained his junior pilots to undertake the exacting operations. This has helped in meeting all the demands placed on the unit for the Glacier operations.

For his outstanding leadership, devotion to duty and professional skill, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to Wg Cdr SP Puranik.

Wing Commander Manpreet Singh Brar was the Commanding Officer of an Air Defence Fighter Squadron from Dec 83 to Dec 85. He took over the unit at a time when the unit had just overcome the after effects of a fatal accident. During this initial period he strove very hard and used every bit of his vast experience to get his squadron in the air again. With his relentless efforts and true personal example, he was able to motivate his personnel and guide them to achieve the stipulated task.

With limited resources both in terms of trained pilots and ground crew, the Squadron has been able to achieve a record number of hours in day and night flying for the year 1984-85. To achieve this gigantic flying task he has had to do extensive early morning and late evening flying. This exacting job demanded constant attention. Being an Air Defence squadron, the unit had to regularly do outstation Operational Readiness Platform commitments which were accomplished time and again to the entire satisfaction of all.

The Squadron carried out this extensive flying with absolute safety. This achievement is even more creditable in view of the fact that many of the young pilots were under conversion or operational training. This was recognized through the award of Western Air Command Flight Safety Trophy to the unit for the year 1984-85.

Wg Cdr Brar's operational orientation is remarkable. He has always displayed excellent professional skill, initiative combined with cheerfulness willingness to accept additional responsibilities at all times.

For his professional skill, devotion to duty and commendable contribution made to the operational efficiency of the Squadron, the President is pleased to award Vayu Sena Medal to Wing Commander Manpreet Singh Brar.

Wing Commander Nirmal Thusu was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in December, 1964. To date, he has accumulated 4700 hours of total flying as well as 2700 glider launches, all of them accident­free. He has 2411 hours of operational flying on the Canberra, both in the Eastern and the Western sectors. He has been and outstanding A-2 Qualified Flying Instructor with over 1900 hours of instructional flying in India and abroad on such varied aircraft types as Canberra, Kiran, HT-2, HPT-32, and L-29. He has held the Master Green Instrument Rating on Canberra and Kiran aircraft since 1974.

Wg Cdr N Thusu has done two eminently successful tenures of duty as Air Force Examiner with the Aircrew Examining Board. As a 'C' Flight Air Force Examiner during these tenures, he has made remarkably significant contribution to the maintenance of a very demanding and high standard of Qualified Flying Instructors. A very keen, perceptive and analytical flier, this officer is endowed with a very rate sense of commitment to flying standards in the IAF in general and to standards within the Aircrew Examining Board, in particular.

For his exceptional qualities as a flierinstructor­examiner, he has been commended by AOsC-in-C on four different occasions and was also commended by the Air Chief of a friendly country for his performance while on deputation to that country as a Qualified Flying Instructor.

For his outstanding professional acumen and his exceptionally outstanding contribution to the maintenance of high standards of flying training, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to Wing Commander Nirmal Thusu.

Wing Commander Mohinderjit Singh Singha was commissioned in the flying branch in Oct 65. An officer with exceptional professional competence, he has been 'A-2' flying instructor since Oct 75. He has 5800 hours of accident-free flying to his credit.

Wing Commander Singha has always displayed exceptional leadership, organsiational ability, ingenuity, dedication and devotion to duty. As a Flight Commander at a Training Air Base and later as Flight Commander and Command Examiner at Paratroopers' Training School, he made significant contributions to the improvement of professional standards. His cheerful acceptance of responsibilities, willingness to work long hours and ability to train and motivate his subordinates, coupled with professional acumen, have been a source of inspiration for every one.

As a Flight Commander of the newly inducted Gajraj Squadron, he took upon himself the arduous task of standardizing the operating procedures of the aircraft in the new environment and varied roles in which very little practical experience was available. His diligence and intimate personal involvement have made subsequent operations both productive and safe.

For his outstanding professionalism, leadership, devotion to duty and dedication, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to Wing Commander Mohinderjit Singh Singha.

Wing Commander Satish Kumar Jain was commissioned in Oct 65. He has flown as many as 3760 hours accident-free on eighteen different types of aircraft.

He was assigned the command of a fighter squadron in Sep 84. This operational squadron also imparts flying training to freshly commissioned pilots. With superior organizational skill and total involvement, Wg Cdr Jain has reorganized and fine-tuned his squadron into a highly efficient and potent organistaion. He has been able to motivate his officers and men and has thus stepped up flying effort by 50%. Wg Cdr Jain has ensured a consistently high standard of training both for staff pilots and the trainees. With exceptional control and organization of maintenance activities, his Squadron established a record of high aircraft serviceability. In 1985-86 the Squadron recorded 100% serviceability on four occasions. No humanerror accident in 5600 hours of flying is the indicator of his direct involvement in all spheres of activities.

For his commendable organistational acumen, operational achievements and exceptional leadership qualities, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to Wing Commander Satish Kumar Jain.

Wing Commander Puzhandara Ambalavattam Hari Mohan was commissioned in the Indian Air Force on 16 Oct 65 and has been on the posted strength of a heavy transport squadron since Oct 84. He has distinguished himself with 5700 hours of accident-free flying on Packet, Chitra and Sutluj aircraft with an 'A' category on Chitra.

In Jan 83, Wg Cdr Hari Mohan was selected to undergo a conversion course on Sutluj aircraft in the USSR and formed the nucleus of Sutluj expertise in the IAF. He was subsequently posted to a transport squadron in the Eastern region, the first to be equipped with Sutluj aircraft. His laudable contribution and exceptional level of flying skill and competence earned him 'Check Pilot' status in Feb 85. Thereafter, he was asked to train other pilots of the unit both in basic and operational roles, especially in the new-profile Transport Support Role involving supply dropping/ landing at the Dropping Zones/Advanced Landing Grounds by the Sutluj in the Eastern Sector and formation of a new Standard Operating Procedure to cater for the characteristics of the newly inducted Sutluj. Though he had no previous experience in the area, which is notorious for its flying hazards. Wg Cdr Harimohan adopted himself very quickly and achieved the goals for him a very short time, through personal example, total dedication to duty, selfless and his ability to put in long hours of work by day and night over a sustained period. During his tenure, the squadron has achieved fully operational status in all roles.

For his exceptional flying capabilities, superb organizational skill and outstanding contribution to his squadron, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to Wing Commander Puzhandara Ambalavattam Harimohan.

Wing Commander Ajit Bhavnani has been posted as Commanding Officer of a premier frontline squadron since 28 Jan 85. As Commanding Officer of the first Vajra squadron of the IAF, his performance has been truly outstanding. Having successfully led the team of Vajra pilots trained in France, he achieved the rare distinction of planning and successfully leading the first ferry of seven Vajra aircraft from France to India. Subsequently, he was involved in the successful ferry of three more batches of Vajra aircraft flown in by his squadron. Having assumed command of his squadron, he shou ldered the major responsibility of forming the squadron and inducting a very modern and sophisticated aircraft into the IAF. With his outstanding professional ability, he performed the arduous task in the most methodical and distinctive manner.

Overcoming all the initial hurdles, he organized the available resources to build his unit into a highly operational and efficient outfit within a very short period of time. Despite severe handicaps of shortage of manpower and equipment, he motivated his squadron personnel exceptionally well which resulted in heavy flying activity. Working relentlessly, he ushered in a new era of concepts and tactics related to fighter operations. His selfless devotion to work has been an exemplary source of inspiration and motivation for his personnel. Due to his deep personal involvement and exceptionally high level of professional competence, the entire Vajra force has reached a distinctively high level of operational efficiency.

As Commanding Officer, he has displayed an exceptional high level of professional skill.

For his outstanding achievements as Commanding Officer of the first Vajra Squadron, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva medal to Wing Commander Ajit Bhavnani.

Wing Commander Mahtab Rai Handa was specially selected as a helicopter pilot for the Fourth Antarctica Expedition. In Antarctica, Wg Cdr Handa showed tremendous zeal and contributed substantially to the flying effort and achievement of the expedition goals against tremendous odds.

On 24 Feb 85, as soon as it was learnt that a naval Chetak had force landed on a floating iceberg and could not be rescued by any available means within the capability of the ship, he took the decision in coordination with the Expedition leader to rescue the naval aircrew and recover their aircraft by the Pratap helicopter. He flew two sorties for rescue of the crew from a floating ice berg which had undulating surface and several cracks. He also helped Wg Cdr Simeos in flying the repaired Pratap helicopter which had suffered heavy damage. This helicopter was flown onto a small ramp on board the ship, after it was exposed to a number of blizzards for 42 days. With his dedicated participation in the flying effort with only serviceable Pratap helicopter, all men and material for the Expedition were airlifted to the new station at Dakshin Gangotri Hills.

For his exceptional devotion to duty, professional skill and competence, coupled with outstanding courage shown during the crisis, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to Wing Commander Mahtab Rai Handa.

Wing Commander Padamjit Singh Ahluwalia was commissioned in the Indian Air Force on 02 Jun 68. After his short tenure of operating on high performance aircraft, Wg Cdr Ahluwalia was selected to undergo the Flying Instructors' Course. He excelled as a flying instructor and was awarded Category A-2 in recognition of his superior professional knowledge and instructional ability.

In 1976, Wg Cdr Ahluwalia was sent on an instructional tenure abroad. During this tenure, he successfully executed a forced landing of an L-29 aircraft. For his cool and competent handling of such a grave emergency and saving the aircraft and also the life of his pupil, he was specially commended by the Commander­in­Chief of the Air Force to which he was attached for instructional duties. He then did a tenure as Assistant Director Operations at Air Headquarters.

In 1984, Wg Cdr Ahluwalia was specially selected to undergo training in France for converting onto the Vajra aircraft. As Senior Flight Commander of the new raising, with his characteristic enthusiasm and total devotion to duty, he undertook the lion's share of the difficult process of starting the new squadron.

In recognition of the past performance in service, he was given the prestigious and onerous task of re-equipping the oldest squadron of the Air Force with the latest and most sophisticated weapon system (Vajra). Although he had just completed the trying process of setting up the previous squadron, he took on the new responsibility without any regard to his own comfort or leisure.

For his hard work, loyalty to service, devotion to duty, exemplary qualities of leadership and intelligent management techniques, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to Wg Cdr Padamjit Singh Ahluwalia.

Wing Commander Ivor Mario Simoes was one of the four Pratap helicopter pilots specially chosen for the Fourth Indian Scientific Expedition to Antarctica, 198485. Wg Cdr Simoes undertook 145 sorties in hazardous flying conditions and wind velocity exceeding 70 KMPH and was instrumental in ensuring the transportation of all the material required from the ship to construct three huts at Dakshin Gangotri and a garage at the Base Camp.

A Pratap helicopter, having suffered heavy damage, force landed on the shelf ice. This helicopter was patch­repaired over a period of 42 days under extreme cold conditions and frequent blizzards. However, there were no means of ascertaining its airworthiness other than by actually flying the repaired helicopter. Fully alive to the risks involved, this officer courageously flew out the repaired helicopter on 11 Feb 85 from the sea-shelf to the mother ship. But for his initiative, this helicopter might have been a total loss to the country.

Again, on 24 Feb 85, a naval Chetak helicopter force landed on a floating iceberg. The prompt rescue of the crew and recovery of the helicopter was once again effected once again by Wg Cdr Simoes, who flew six sorties for the purpose. It was brave action and professional skill that saved the situation. A short while after the Chetak was recovered, the iceberg began breaking up when it collided with two other floating icebergs. The landing of a Pratap helicopter on a floating iceberg is the only such record in the history of the Air Force.

For his extraordinary courage, superb flying skill and devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to Wg Cdr Simoes.

Squadron Leader Kanwar Bharatendra Singh was posted to a fighter squadron as a Senior Flight Commander on 23 Mar 85. At that time this Squadron was the first unit to be fully equipped with Badal aircraft manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. As a Flight Commander, he had the arduous job of converting the squadron pilots onto a new type and to raise the operational status of the squadron.

It was primarily due to his initiative, farsightedness and organizational capabilities that the squadron was able to fly more than 3700 sorties without any accident. This incredible task has been achieved despite a low trained manning state, and the low serviceability state, with an average not more than 5 aircraft available daily. Notwithstanding the low manning and serviceability state, ten pilots were trained to fully operational status. Proper planning and correct staggering sequence enabled the squadron to fly the number of sorties already mentioned and also meet the additional requirements of frequently manning Operational Readiness Platform.

The squadron has an excellent record of flight safety and operational status till date. This record is attributable mainly to the high professional competence and close supervision exercised by Sqn Ldr KB Singh. He neglected his personal comforts and worked for very long hours to achieve this difficult task.

For his sincere work and exceptional devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to Squadron Leader Kanwar Bharatendra Singh.

Squadron Leader Jatinder Pal Singh Talwar has been on the posted strength of a bomber squadron since 13 Feb 84. He has to his credit 1300 hours of accident-free flying on Canberra aircraft. Currently, he is a righthand seat qualified trainer captain and holds Master Green Rating.

On 15 Feb 85, after completing a hill flying exercise, Squadron Leader Talwar joined circuit. Even after the undercarriage was lowered by him on downwind, the red light of the starboard main wheel remained on. The ATC confirmed that the starboard main wheel was partially down. Despite every effort the starboard wheel could not be brought down. It was finally decided to land the aircraft in the existing condition. The demand and the responsibility on him increased further as damage to the delicate and expensive equipment housed in the radome (on the belly of the aircraft) seemed inevitable. Notwithstanding the pressure, the pilot, unperturbed and in full control for his faculties made a perfect touch down on two extended wheels and controlled the landing run with dexterity and ensured that while minimum damage was caused to the Airframe, the radome sustained no damage to all.

On another occasion, on 15 Oct 85, while carrying out A&E check at 40,000', Sqn Ldr Talwar displayed an exceptional degree of flying skill and professional competence in handling the emergencies and landing the aircraft safely.

In recognition of his exceptionally high degree of professional skill and outstanding airmanship, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to Squadron Leader Jatinder Pal Singh Talwar.

Squadron Leader Rajib Kumar Chakravorty has been on the posted strength of Aircraft & Systems Testing Establishment with effect from 09 Jan 82.

From Dec 82 to Feb 84, he was involved in the successful and safe completion of numerous high priority trials allotted to the Flight Test Squadron of this establishment. He was on the Shamsher Darin project while, simultaneously, he was responsible for the singlehanded completion of five separate trials on Vajra aircraft. The latter had to be carried out from the home base. Their timely completion involved long hours of work on the tarmac in severe climatic conditions. During a reject take-off trial on Vijay aircraft, the brake parachute sheared off when deployed at limit speed. However, Sqn Ldr Chakravorty reacted in a cool and professional manner and averted what otherwise could have been a major accident. He also participated in trials on Vikram and Badal aircraft. By his application and industry, he set an example for younger test pilots to emulate. During his tenure with the FTS; Sqn Ldr Chakravorty displayed professionalism of a very high standard.

He was inducted into the Test Pilots School as the Senior Test Flying Instructor in Jan 85. During 1985-86, he was instrumental in the planning and completion of No. 8 Test Pilots' Course and the first half of No. 9 ETPC in spite of an acute shortage of test flying instructors. During this period, he discharged his duties as the Senior Test Flying Instructor and, for three months, as Officer Commanding, TPS, displaying instructional ability and flying skills of an exceptional order.

For his exceptional multifaceted professionalism, extreme devotion to duty and constant dedication to the task for test flying and training of test pilots, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr Rajib Kumar Chakravorty.

Squadron Leader Deepak Balachandra Ajgaonkar, Parachute Jumping Instructor, has been posted to Aerial Delivery Research & Development Establishment, Agra as a Free Fall Qualified Parachute Jump Instructor with effect from 9 Jan 85. He has to his credit a total of 841 parachute descents inclusive of 285 free falls.

In Apr 85, he was assigned the task of completing an on­going Research and Development project in which Aircrew Parachute Chest Type was to be modified for fitment of an automatic opening device and also to carry out a first ever live trial of an emergency Aircrew Chest Type Parachute. He pursued the aim with extreme dedication and ingenuity. He was instrumental in redesigning the harness to incorporate a back type reserve and also in designing a jettisonable helmet mounted face guard for carrying out the liver trial for this very purpose.

On 29 Apr 86, he successfully carried out the first ever live trial of a chest type aircrew emergency parachute. This trial was the first in the world as per the literature available with the R&D organization. Due to the inherent risk involved, live trials of emergency parachutes are not recommended to be carried out anywhere in the world. Air Headquarters desired that at least one live trial jump should be conducted to instill confidence amongst future potential users, such as different types of aircrew of various types of transport aircraft. Sqn Ldr DB Ajgaonkar volunteered to undertake this pioneering feat which could have caused grave danger to his life.

For this first ever successful courageous attempt, dedication to duty and fruitful utilization of professional skill, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to Squadron Leader Deepak Balachandra Ajgaonkar.

Squadron Leader Rajdeep Singh Mann was commissioned in December, 1973. He was posted to airbase imparting flying training with effect from 15 Dec 83 and remained there for two years. A keen and above-average flier, he did over 600 hours of flying during this tenure. Thereafter, he was selected on merit for conversion to Rakshak aircraft. He did his Qualified Flying Instructors' Course in December, 1983 and during his two year instructional tenure at this Academy he did over 700 hours and trained 17 cadets. As a supervisor and as a Qualified Flying Instructor his performance has been exemplary. He has worked extremely hard and has always kept the interest of the service before his own. He was the driving force in completing the training of two Pilots' Courses on schedule.

On 17 Sept 85, while on an instructional sortie with a pupil, he experienced an engine flame out 50 feet off the ground during a roller take-off. Exercising exceptional skill and using split second judgment, he landed the aircraft back safely without any damage, thus saving a valuable aircraft.

For his exemplary professional ability and for his dedication to duty, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to Squadron Leader RS Mann.

Flight Lieutenant Anshu Kumar Matta was located at the Base Camp on Siachen Glacier as Captain of a helicopter detachment.

On 13 Aug 85 at 0815 hrs, a company commander, located at an extremely difficult forward post, passed a message to the Officerin-Charge Cheetah Helicopter Operation that due to heavy hostile shelling, one person was seriously wounded and could be saved only if he was speedily evacuated. Flt Lt AK Matta was close by and heard the message being conveyed. He, without wasting a moment for obtaining clearance, immediately took off leaving the clearance for the sortie to be obtained by the Task Force Commander. Not knowing the exact location of the casualty and to avoid delay in reaching the wounded soldier, he landed in the area of Company Headquarters which he was familiar with and picked up the Company Commander in his helicopter.

With utter disregard to his personal safety, he reached the area where hostile shelling was still continuing. The place where the wounded NCO lay was at an altitude of 19,200 feet above mean sea level. Due to heavy snow, no helipad could be constructed at such a short notice. Flt Lt AK Matta maneuvered and landed his aircraft at that altitude under bad weather and poor visibility conditions.

Against all odds and fully award of the risks, Flt Lt AK Matta lifted the casualty and brought the wounded person to the Base Camp for first aid. He only waited till the helicopter was refuelled and immediately too off and brought the casualty to a General Hospital at the rear.

For his exemplary courage, selfless devotion to duty and matchless initiative, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to Flight Lieutenant Anshu Kumar Matta.

Junior Warrant Officer Balwinder Singh, Flight Gunner, was selected for the Fourth Scientific Expedition to Antarctica since he had 2100 hours of flying experience on Pratap helicopter.

During the expedition he was assigned the important task of loading and offloading operations of all bulky and unwieldy construction material on Pratap for airlift from the ship to the Indian Station in Antarctica. Being the only Flight Gunner in the team, he had to fly all the sorties which demanded long working hours. His meticulous and most efficient approach to the task saved a lot of turn­around time, resulting in more sorties on any one clear day of flying. He carried out 192 sorties and flew a total of 72 hours, thus airlifting 132 tons of construction material and essential stores within the limited available time in sub­zero temperature conditions. Though JWO Singh was not a part of the technical team, he actively participated in all the maintenance activities of the expedition, right from the packing of the helicopter stores, its loading and the maintenance activities during the voyage. Even while in Antarctica he participated in the task required for servicing.

In an accident during the expedition, the undersurface of a Pratap helicopter was damaged. As a member of the aircrew on board, JWO B Singh displayed commendable initiative. Having ascertained the extent of the damage physically, he advised the Captain to attempt a precautionary landing. On reaching the base camp, he jumped out even while the helicopter hovered, and arranged a safe landing of the helicopter.

For his exemplary courage, high degree of professionalism and selfless devotion to service, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to JWO Balwinder Singh.

Group Captain Sivaramakrishnan Srinivasan was commissioned on 1 Jun 60. During his service career he has held various posts in the field and staff assignments.

The Officer was posted as the Chief Engineering Officer of a forward air base in Dec 83. As the head of the Maintenance Organisation, it was his responsibility to optimize the availability and utilization of the vast technical resources of this base which he did extremely efficiently and with maximum safety.

During the last two years, under his active and energetic guidance, the maintenance system has been streamlined and so structured that increased flying effort is available, particularly for the Rakshak fleet. This has been achieved by stringent control of stagger, effective planning of a high order and optimum utilization of manpower, credit for which must go to Gp Capt Srinivasan. Besides the inspections and consequent increase in the flying effort, setting up and effective utilization of new systems like Radar Test Facility, missile testing complex and the specialist vehicles etc have also been carried out successfully under the overall supervision of the officer.

For this commendable professional acumen and dedication, which contributed to the performance enhancement of the airbase, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain S Srinivasan.

Group Captain Ramesh Nath Singh was posted to the Directorate of Financial Planning on 01 Jul 85. He took over the arduous task of development of a manual Management Information System and set about this job with perseverance and rare professional skill. The MIS developed by him has been of immense help in scrutiny of Hindustan Aeronautical Limited quotations and speedily furnishing information to various directorates and the Ministry of Defence. He has also streamlined the cost accounting procedures in respect of squadrons and training units, resulting in substantial saving of man hours at units in rendition of cost returns.

Efforts made in the past of introduce cost accounting in Base Repair Depots have not been successful as they had demanded additional manpower for it. At the same time, it has been considered essential to cost BRD activities as they use bulk of Air Force resources. Gp Capt RN Singh undertook the task of simplifying BRD costing while retaining the essentials elements of it so that this activity could be taken up within the existing manpower resources. He exhibited deep professional understanding and unusual determination in accomplishing this task. This step will go a long way in developing cost consciousness, informed decision making and achieving a sense of accountability.

No scientific system existed till recently for finalization of HAL cost quotations. With an active and positive involvement of Gp Capt RN Singh, a procedure has been developed to effectively vet HAL quotations. Adoption of this procedure resulted in a saving of about Rs. 64 crores to the IAF during 1985-86.

For his versatile ingenuity, outstanding devotion to duty, managerial capability and professional competence, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain RN Singh.

Group Captain Sankaranarayana Ramaswamy Joined the Indian Air Force in 1961. During his service of 25 years, he has held various important and challenging posts.

While he was functioning as the Training Co-ordination Officer at Air Force Technical College, he earned a commendation from Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Training Command in the year 1976.

As a Wing Commander, he had two successive tenures as Chief Technical Officer of two Signal Units. With his verve and vigour he could maintain the old radar sets to extract peak performance. Due to his significant innovative contribution, he was awarded the commendation of the Chief of the Air Staff in Aug 83.

On taking over command of a very sensitive Signal Unit in Jan 83, he set the prime objective of improving the functional efficiency of the unit. The unit, fundamentally a base repair depot, could achieve a production target of 106% during the year 1985-86, a record of performance to-date. This increased the operational availability of sensitive equipment. This was due to the initiative drive and dedication of this officer.

The officer has introduced useful innovations in teaching technique and training aids to improve the quality of training in keeping with the increased sophistication of electronic warfare system that have been inducted ort are under induction. During the year 1985-86, the unit could undertake increased training commitments besides many other ad hoc tasks.

For his excellent professional competence, positive outlook, dedication to duty and inspiring leadership, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Sankaranarayana Ramaswamy.

Group Captain Dharam Singh Minhas has been on the posted strength of a Base Repair Depot since Jun 84. On being appointed Officer-in-Charge Material Planning and Control, he streamlined the procedure for rotables production and control, mandatory and non-mandatory lists preparation, for accurate provisioning and local purchase of consumables. He took over the AN-12 Division in Aug 84, where overhaul of AN-12 Aircraft was behind schedule. With his tremendous zeal, organizing capability and excellent interpersonal relations the assigned AN-12 task for the year 1984-85 was completed well in time.

In Apr 85 he was appointed Production Planning and Control Officer to plan and control overhaul of AN-12 Aircraft, Pratap Helicopters and their engines. With critical analysis of the work contents of various overhaul divisions based on Government approved tasks, he redistributed the manpower for effective utilization. With commendable devotion to duty, exemplary initiative and sustained hard work he introduced the system of direct loading of components for Pratap helicopters overhaul which not only resulted in less handling of components, reduced paper work and little wastage of precious manpower, but also helped the depot in its improved monitoring and streamlined information collection for effective control. Besides, having been detailed to look after the Engine Overhaul Division, Group Captain Minhas brought about record production of engines in the year 1985-86.

In recognition of his dedication to duty, exemplary initiative, exceptional professional skill and outstanding qualities of leadership, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Dharam Singh Minhas.

Group Captain Ramesh Chander commanded an Air Stores Park from August, 1981 to 12 Jan 86.

During his tenure as commanding Officer, he totally identified himself with the needs and requirements of his unit and was able to forge a very close-knit team of officers and men. Under his leadership, the unit recorded growth both in terms of well-designed and well-executed physical assets such as office and domestic accommodation and achievement of all targets set by HQ Maintenance Command in the filed of administration and logistics. So well did the unit perform that in the year 1984 it was awarded the Best Administered Unit Trophy.

The capability of this officer in handling unforeseen situations were also tested many a time during this period. In August/September, 1984, when Delhi and its surrounding areas were in the grip of communal disturbances, the ASP was called upon to assist the civil authority in Gurgaon. A large number of exservicemen living in Gurgaon area also had to be sheltered from violence. Group Captain Ramesh Chander carried out both these sensitive tasks with rare courage tack, sympathy and foresight.

In 1985, the Park was called upon to position explosives at Pune at a very short notice. The task involved meticulous planning in arranging transportation, extreme caution and quick execution. Under the leadership of this officer, the unit again rose to the occasion and completed the task within the stipulated period.

In recognition of his professional competence, ingenuity in planning, exemplary leadership and dedication to duty, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Ramesh Chander.

Wing Commander Anup Singh Bedi was commissioned in the Logistics branch on 16 Dec 61. He was posted to Air Headquarters with effect from 22 Feb 81.

In Jul 81, he was entrusted with the challenging task of executing the audiovisual publication campaign of the IAF during the Golden Jubilee year. He applied himself to this task diligently and drew up a comprehensive plan in order to achieve maximum media publicity for the IAF.

He liaised with Films Division for the free release of six selected documentaries and production of three new documentaries. Thus a documentary on IAF was issued every month all over the country in the Golden Jubilee year. It was through his untiring efforts that the feature film 'Vijeta' based on the life and expectation of a trainee Air Force pilot was made and exhibited.

He was also assigned the task of making a series of television films regarding various facets of the IAF by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting for telecast by Doordarshan. This was a Herculean task considering that making a feature film of 40-50 minutes duration requires 2-3 months for production. With single minded devotion to duty, Wg Cdr Bedi rose to the occasion, and produced thirteen such films. These were telecast nation-wide during the Golden Jubilee year. The excellent publicity achieved during the Golden Jubilee year was largely due to the stupendous efforts of the officer. The then Deputy Minister of Information and Broadcasting specially commended Wg Cdr Bedi's performance.

In Oct 83, Wg Cdr Bedi produced a documentary on the history of IAF titled "Down the Memory Lane" and later in 1985 a feature on the Siachen Glacier.

In recognition of his deep sense of involvement, dedication to duty, and resultoriented diligence, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Anup Singh Bedi.

Wing Commander Satish Kumar Ram Lal Dham has been on the posted strength of No. 8 AF Hospital since 2 May 85. Commissioned in December, 1963 he served in several flying squadrons as Squadron Medical Officer and did creditably well. He qualified as a Specialist in Medicine after acquiring his M.D. in Medicine from the university of Pune in June, 1971 and has since then been working as a specialist in medicine in the Armed Forces.

He was selected for higher studies in the newer field of clinical immunology and served in the U.K. for a period of two years from Sep 79 to Sep 80 and acquired a postgraduate degree of Masters of Science in Immunology from the University of Birmingham. He was appointed a Reader in Medicine at the Armed Forces Medical College, Pune, where he raised an immunology Cell and displayed his professional skill in teaching undergraduate and postgraduate students and undertook many projects. He was appointed an examiner for MBBS by the University of Pune. His original work includes immunological studies in typhoid, leprosy and polio vaccination. He was classified as a specialist in Clinical Immunology in Apr 85. In Dec 85, he was appointed as an external examiner in M.D. in Aviation Medicine of Bangalore University.

His devoted services and professional expertise in the electrocardiographic abnormalities in aircrew earned him a commendation by the Air Officer Commanding-in-chief, HQ Training Command during his tenure at the Institute of Aviation Medicine in Aug 75

For his devotion, professionalism, loyalty and selfless service, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Satish Kumar Ram Lal Dham.

Wing Commander Hari Nath Sharma was commissioned in December, 1964. Since then he has held various important assignments with distinction. Prior to taking over as Command Organisation and Works Officer at an Operational Command in Nov 83, he held Provost assignments at Jamnagar, Command Headquarters and Air Headquarters.

For his excellent performance as Assistant Provost Marshal and Deputy Provost Marshal he was commended by AOC-in-C in Jan 77 and by the Chief of the Air Staff in Jan 79 and Jan 80.

As Command Staff Officer Provost and Officer in-Charge Personnel-1 at a Command Headquarters from Feb 82 to Nov 83, he took preventive measures which resulted in substantial reduction of indiscipline and criminal cases. He successfully investigated a number of cases which resulted in bringing the culprits to book. He also succeeded in the finalization of a number of pending Courts of Inquiry and civil suits. On taking over as Command Works Officer in Nov 83, he applied himself to the execution of works services with promptness and economy of effort. In order to ensure smooth functioning of the works machinery, he organized works workshop at one of the stations of the Command. The conduct of the symposium resulted in creating an excellent team spirit amongst engineers, using and contractors.

With his vast knowledge of works matters, he gave impetus to the works services at Station/Units under the Command.

In recognition of his exemplary leadership, professional competence and outstanding organizational acumen, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal posthumously to Wing Commander Hari Nath Sharma.

Wing Commander Raman Kumar Bhandari has been the Chief Technical Officer of a Radar Station since 08 Oct 84.

Wing Commander Bhandari has incorporated a number of modifications by designing and fabricating critical circuits for various components of a French radar in order to enhance its operational capability. He has also effected as number of repairs of unserviceable items, thereby ensuring a high operational status of the equipment.

His major achievement was in designing and fabricating a circuit for remote display of North Pulse which enabled the crew to know immediately of any misalignment. He also designed a digital diagnostic tool using a common Anode Numeric Display which enhanced the digital fault finding capability of the radar. He also evolved a circuitry for remotely controlling the operation of Identification Friend or Foe transmission from the operations room. This modification enables remote challenging of enemy aircraft which was earlier not possible. The officer has also designed and fabricated a circuit whereby a flashing symbol and label appear on the console to designate a hijacked aircraft in a state of emergency.

His other achievements include rectification of Core Memory Module, Optical Coder and IFF MK X. A noteworthy feature of these repairs is that most of them would have cost thousands of dollars if entrusted to factories abroad.

The officer's total commitment, involvement and constant concern for improving the operational capability of the radar are out of the ordinary.

For his exceptional dedication to duty and outstanding professional competence, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Raman Kumar Bhandari.

Wing Commander Ram Prakash Sharma was a commissioned in the IAF in Jan 66. He has worked in missile squadrons of the IAF in various capacities and performed creditably in all his assignments.

He was posted to Radar Communication Project Office in Aug 75. From 1975 to 1978, he has engaged in planning and co-ordinating the system engineering aspects connected with a modern radar station which was to be installed at a location in the Western Sector. Planning for installation of a radar of this magnitude involved checking of civil engineering drawings, formulation of technical details of the various systems and coordinating the timely supply of various items of hardware from the various manufac turing agencies. Wg Cdr RP Sharma achieved all these tasks and contributed significantly to the commissioning of this radar.

Subsequently planning of the system engineering aspects of the medium power mobile radar was entrusted to this officer in 1978. The installation and integration of a variety of sub systems in the radar system entailed elaborate planning to correlate their technical parameters and coordinate the deliveries of all the sub stations by various agencies. By dint of his dedicated hard work, this officer has ensured that two of these radars are operational and evaluation of the third has been completed. Single handedly, this officer has prepared the integration document which defines the details of the task to be carried out for integrating the radar with the Data Handling and other systems.

For this high standard of professional skill initiative, devotion to duty and distinguished service throughout his career, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander RP Sharma.

Wing Commander Sarabjit Singh was appointed Commanding Officer of a sensitive squadron with effect from 30 Jun 84.

During this period, the squadron was entrusted with many hazardous special recce missions. He organized his resources well and produced excellent results which helped in reevaluation of the threat.

On the home front, he set an enviable growth rate target of 25% for the annual survey effort by the squadron. Despite sudden exodus of senior aircrew, non availability of supervisors in both Canberra and Chitra Flights and poor serviceability of aircraft, he not only met the target figure but also created an all-time record of surveying 5.7 lakh Sq Kms. The Squadron's effort earned the Air Force as revenue of Rs. 2.5 crores for the year 1984-85. The unit's contribution to strategic recce and survey brought tremendous credit to the Indian Air Force.

In his capacity as Commanding Officer, he has shown remarkable acumen for understanding the dynamics of human behaviour. He was able to motivate his officers and men to draw out their best potential. A deep camaraderie combined with respect for service traditions pervades all the ranks in the squadron and has resulted in the highest standard of operational preparedness.

For his professional competence and single minded devotion to duty, which are in keeping with the highest traditions of the Air Force, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Sarabjit Singh.