Air Marshal Bharat Kumar, AVSM was commissioned as Fighter Pilot on 19 Dec 59. He is a Fighter Combat Leader and has flown practically all-fighter aircraft presently on the inventory of the IAF including Mirage 2000 and MiG-29. He actively participated in IndoPak conflicts of 1965 and 1971. The Air Officer has commanded with distinction a premier fighter squadron and two operational fighter bases including Air Force Station Gwalior, where Mirage 2000 aircraft are based. He was awarded AVSM in 1984. A graduate of Defence Services Staff College, the Air Officer is one of the very few Indian officers who have undergone General Staff Course at Vorshilov General Staff Academy, Moscow. He has held many staff assignments both at Command and Air HQ and in these appointments, his performance has been creditable. The more noteworthy of these appointments have been as Director Plans and Director Operations (Aircraft Induction) at Air Headquarters, during which most of the modern aircraft in the inventory of the IAF were smoothly inducted into the IAF. On promotion to the rank of Air Mshl, he successfully held the appointment of Senior Air Staff Officer of South Western Air Command wherein he provided fresh impetus to the operational plans, their modes of implementation and training for the same. The Air Officer presently holds the appointment of Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Southern Air Command. In this appointment he brings to bear his vast operational and staff experience in enhancing the capabilities of operational preparedness of this Command.

Air Marshal Bharat Kumar, AVSM has thus rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal AY Tipnis, AVSM, VM was commissioned as a Fighter Pilot on 28 May 60. He has held several key field and staff appointments in his long and distinguished career. A pilot attack instructor and a graduate of the Defence Services Staff College, he has commanded a fighter squadron and was the leader of the Mirage project team in France. He was awarded VM in 1980. On return from France he was appointed the Air Officer Commanding of the Mirage-2000 Base. An alumnus of the National Defence College he has held the staff appointments of Joint Director and Assistant Chief of Air Staff (Inspection) at Air Headquarters. A year later he was appointed the Air Officer Commanding Jammu and Kashmir and was awarded AVSM in 1994.

The Air Officer holds the unique distinction of serving as the Senior Air Staff Officer of two operational commands, Eastern Air Command and Western Air Command. He took over as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Air Command on 01 Aug 95. As Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Air Command, despite the existing monetary, equipment and manpower crunch, through a rational reallocation of the available resources he has successfully enhanced the operational preparedness of the largest Operational Command of the Indian Air Force. He flew the Mi-26 on its first landing at the treacherous Dalhousie helipad, flew the AN-32 on its first landing at Leh by night, and lead the fly-past on 26 Jan 96, thus leading by example and making valuable contribution in maintaining a high state of morale amongst the personnel.

Air Marshal AY Tipnis, AVSM, VM has thus rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal KB Singh, AVSM, VM, VSM was commissioned on 26 May 1960 as a Fighter Pilot. He has 4000 hours accident free flying to his credit. He was awarded VSM in 1972. The Air Officer was awarded VM in 1974 for flying a glider cross-country of 300 Km. He has held the appointments of Director General of Air Force Naval Housing Board and Director of Personnel (Officers) at Air HQ. For distinguished service he was awarded AVSM in 1994. For his long and intimate association with flying training, he was appointed the first Commodore Commandant of the Flying Instructors School. He took over as Air Officer Commanding-inChief of Training Command on 01 June 1995.

Air Marshal KB Singh has introduced new flying training patterns for more efficient and cost effective training of pilots. He was instrumental in analysing the problems connected with maintenance of HPT-32 trainer aircraft and initiating remedial measures. During the calendar year 95, there were a total of 10 aircraft accidents in Training Command. With his perseverance and managerial skills, he made immense contributions to the cause of flight safety by ensuring accident free flying during the year 1996. Under his dynamic leadership, the Commanders and supervisors have displayed a greater sense of commitment and dedication and enhanced the quality and standard of Training. With his vision and management of resources, the infrastructure at the training institutions have been vastly improved resulting in greater degree of comfort in working and living conditions for personnel.

Air Mshl KB Singh has been entrusted with a major portion of the task of conducting the International Air Show, Aero-India 96, at Yelahanka. He is also responsible for raising a new Formation Aerobatics Team “Surya Kiran" in Training Command to project the image and enhance the prestige of the Indian Air Force.

Air Mshl KB Singh, AVSM, VM has thus rendered distinguished service of most exceptional order.

Air Marshal R Bajpai, AVSM was commissioned in the Engineering Branch on 20 Jun 1960. He holds an MSc. Degree in Physics, M Tech in Radar Technology and was awarded Ph D by IIT Delhi in 1995 for his work on “Electronic Warfare'. He is an alumnus of the National Defence College. He was awarded AVSM in 1995.

He has held many prestigious field and staff appointments. As Senior Maintenance Staff Officer, HQ Maintenance Command, with his innovative approach and thrust on indigenisation, computerisation and rationalisation, he achieved phenomenal growth in every aspect of production and maintenance activity while effecting savings in manpower, money and material.

In his present appointment as Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Maintenance Command, under his overall direction, supervision and control, he has ensured successful indigenous development of repair, life extension and overhaul technologies for aircraft, aggregates and other radar and communication equipment. The first AN-32 and MiG-23 BN aircraft overhauled with indigenous technology have already joined the operational fleets. Besides savings in crores of rupees in foreign exchange and downtime of the aircraft, he has provided the nation with much needed self reliance. These extraordinary achievements could be possible because of his sound professional background, administrative and managerial skill and total dedication.

Air Marshal R Bajpai, AVSM has thus rendered distinguished services of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal TRJ Osman, AVSM was commissioned as a Fighter Pilot on 15 Dec 60. A Pilot Attack Instructor, he has varied flying experience on different types of fighter aircraft and has actively participated in the 1965 and 1971 Indo-Pak wars. He commanded two front-line squadrons. During his tenure as the Air Officer Commanding Air Force Station Jamnagar, he ensured very high operational standards which resulted in the station winning the Best Base and Flight Safety awards. For distinguished service rendered, he was awarded AVSM in 1990. He has held the key appointments of Director Offensive Operations, Air Defence Commander HQ South Western Air Command, Assistant Chief of Air Staff (Inspection) and Senior Air Staff Officer HQ Eastern Air Command. He is a graduate of the Command and Staff College, Bracknell, UK and the National Defence College. Air Mshl TRJ Osman was appointed as the Vice Chief of Air Staff (VCAS) on 01 Jan 96. On taking over he has carried out a complete analytical review of the IAF's flying training system and thereafter formulated and executed a comprehensive reorganization and modernization plan.

As VCAS, Air Mshl TRJ Osman has contributed significantly to the formulation and execution of air strategy and tactical concepts of the IAF. Drawing on his comprehensive operational experience Air Mshl TRJ Osman has instituted innovative operational measures that will greatly enhance the IAF's future operational status and capability. His dedication to achievement of clearly defined service goals has inspired his entire Branch with a sense of mission. Air Mshl TRJ Osman has been actively involved in providing the impetus for the Fifth Pay Commission as the Principal Staff Officer in charge.

Air Mshl TRJ Osman AVSM has thus rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal G Gururani, AVSM, VSM, was commissioned on 01 Dec 61 in the Engineering Branch. He has held the appointment of Chief Engineering Officer at AF Station Agra, Air Officer Commanding of a Base Repair Depot (BRD) at Chandigarh/Assistant Chief of Air Staff (ACAS), Air HQ and Senior Maintenance Staff Officer, HQ Maintenance Command (SMSO, HQ. MC). He was awarded VSM in 1983 and AVSM in 1993.

As ACAS, his dialogue with the original equipment manufacturers of Russia/CIS countries resulted in multifold improvement in supplies/repairs from Russia/CIS countries. During this tenure, he initiated life extension studies with the help of expertise available in the IAF, HAL and DRDO/CSIR labs. As a result life extension schedules were evolved and large scale withdrawals for overhaul in foreign countries were averted resulting in saving of large amount of foreign exchange.

As SMSO, HQ MC, he focused on self reliance and Indigenisation of spares by the repair depots. As Air Officer incharge Maintenance the Air Officer is continuing the thrust on self reliance. Servicing schedules of combat fleets are being revised to eliminate over servicing. Plans have been initiated for in-situ calibration by means of air transportable cabins fitted with calibration equipment. The thrust on procurement of maintenance supplies from original equipment manufacturers is continuing and the results are evident in the form of all round improvement in serviceability. A programme has been initiated to revise the logistics procedures and practices to bring them in line with present realities.

Air Marshal G Gururani, AVSM, VSM has thus rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Commodore Padamjit Singh Ahluwalia was commissioned as a Fighter Pilot on 02 Jun 68. He was deputed overseas as a Flying Instructor and specially selected to train abroad during the initial induction of high technology aircraft, MiG-23 of and Mirage2000, in the countries of their origin. He was the Commanding Officer of one of the first two squadrons converting to Mirage-2000 aircraft. The squadron was made operational in a record time to undertake a pioneering role in the field of Electronic Warfare. The Air Officer was specially selected for a diplomatic assignment abroad.

His significant contribution in improving the bilateral defence relations was highly appreciated by the Ministry of External Affairs and duly recorded.

Air Cmde Ahluwalia was appointed Station Commander of an operational forward base in 1994. The base was infamous for intense bird activity. He applied himself consistently to the daunting task of creating a near zero bird activity environment. This challenging task was accomplished in a very short time. That the station was to become a model base, speaks volumes of his exemplary leadership and single minded devotion to duty. Air Cmde Ahluwalia was appointed Air Assistant to the Chief of the Air Staff in 96. Making the best use of his operational background and logical approach, he has made an outstanding contribution by providing well thought out staff inputs for efficient decision making. He possesses an incisive ability to get to the bottom of any problem and suggest solutions. He has displayed outstanding ability for interpersonal relations and ability to deal with senior officers by establishing an excellent capability for resource management and ability to handle complex problem situations.

Air Commodore Padamjit Singh Ahluwalia, AVSM, VM, VSM, has thus rendered distinguished services of an exceptional order.

Air Marshal DC Dhyani, VSM was commissioned in the IAF on 23 Jun 62. During his distinguished career spanning over 34 years, the Air Officer has held many key appointments. These include Chief Administrative Officer of major flying stations, Director of Administrative Inspection/ Provost Marshal (Air), Senior Officer in-charge Administration of an operational command and currently Air Officer in charge Administration at Air HQ. For his distinguished service of high order he was awarded Vishisht Seva Medal in 1985.

The Air Officer started his career as an Air Traffic Controller and acquitted himself creditably. He established Air Traffic Services at Bidar and Nasik from scratch and provided Air Traffic Services for events of National importance. A graduate of the National Defence College, he played a crucial role in evolving a Joint Services approach for the security of AF bases in disturbed areas.

As Air Officer in-charge Administration (AOA), he diligently planned the development of infrastructure to improve the operational potential of the IAF. In an incredibly short span of 10 months as AOA, the Air Officer brought about a significant change in the philosophy of administration and a remarkable improvement in the utilisation of Public and Non­Public funds. He has progressively improved the general morale of the service by timely planning and implementation of welfare schemes such as housing, education specialist medical facilities etc. A dental surgery was established at AF Station New Delhi and a new hospital for the veterans with the latest medicare facilities was inaugurated on Air Force Day, 1996.

Air Marshal Dinesh Chandra Dhyani has thus rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Marshal SS Gupta, VSM was commissioned in the Aeronautical Engineering branch of the IAF on 11 Nov 62. In 1973 he acquired post graduate degree in Material Sciences from Cranfield (UK), He was awarded Vishisht Seva Medal in Jan 1982. He was instrumental in providing timely Mi-17 helicopter support for operations in Siachin Glacier in 1985.

The Air Officer was appointed Senior Maintenance Staff Officer, HQ South Western Air Command in Apr 94. He planned and conducted workshops on Missiles, Communication and Radar equipment, and different types of aircraft. This has led to significant improvements in the reliability and maintainability of these systems. His key thrust area has been the indigenisation of spares and maintenance facilities to achieve selfreliance. He encouraged the field units to innovate and rely more on the local markets for procurement and repair of equipment and share the information. This has accrued significant savings.

He established a Wide Area Computer Network which helped to streamline data transfer and obtain quicker response. Coupled with this, Technical Stores Movement Cell was formed, which was tasked to track all critical spares affecting aircraft serviceability. These measures have markedly improved serviceability of Combat fleet.

Air Marshal Shanti Swaroop Gupta has thus rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Vice Marshal S Raghavan, VSM was commissioned on 10 Nov 62 in the Logistics Branch of the IAF. He has held the appointment AVSM 1996-97 of Senior Logistics Officer at Air Force station Jamnagar, Command Logistics Management Officer at HQ Eastern Air Command/ Officer Commanding Air Force Station Faridabad, Air Officer Commanding Equipment Depot Devlali and Deputy General Manager on deputation to Canteen Stores Department.

The Air Officer was appointed Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Logistics) on 02 Jan 95. With his remarkable managerial skills and excellent inter personal rapport, he was instrumental in bringing about all­round improvement in all areas. Management of mechanical transport received his highest attention. Inspite of many constraints, over 1000 vehicles were procured besides recovery of a large number of vehicles lying unserviceable for prolonged durations. The provisioning and procurement process of Russian flying clothing and aircrew clothing items was expedited by close monitoring. The criticality that existed for many lubricants during 1995 was changed to adequate availability at all places all the time. The working ethos of the Purchase Directorate were refined leading to speedy purchases, ensuring transparency in dealings and improved vendor confidence in the purchase system. He was also closely associated with the decentralisation of provisioning and procurement to Headquarters Maintenance Command and the launching of Integrated Material Management On-line System (IMMOLS). Both these decisions called for extensive analysis of reports, dialogue and negotiations and were very ably handled by him.

Air Vice Marshal S Raghavan has, thus, rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Vice Marshal KS Bindra, VM was commissioned on 14 Jan 63 as Helicopter Pilot. During his illustrious career, he has held many prestigious appointments in India and abroad such as the Air Attaché at Kabul, President of an Air Force Selection Board, Air Officer Commanding of a Transport Base and Deputy Commandant of Air Force Academy. He was awarded Vayu Sena Medal in 1975.

The Air Officer was appointed Senior Officer in-charge Administration at HQ Western Air Command on 06 Mar 95. He undertook the challenging task of providing administrative support to the biggest operational command of IAF with an aim to keep its personnel and weapon system in high state of AVSM 1997 operational preparedness. He displayed his administrative acumen by formulating a methodical and time­bound action plan for task accomplishments.

At a juncture when IAF was faced with critical resource crunch, the Air Officer devised innovative methods for optimum utilisation of resources without compromising quality. As a corollary, he set up core groups christened as “Centres of Excellence" to train personnel within the Command resources. The procedures have now been streamlined by issuing Command Admin Directives for effective management of work services, Public and Non­Public Funds, children's education and discipline among personnel. His herculean efforts have improved quality of life of the personnel, thus boosting their morale and trust in service.

Air Vice Marshal Khushinder Singh Bindra has thus rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Vice Marshal McMahon was commissioned as a Fighter Pilot on 22 Jun 63. He is a Qualified Flying Instructor (QFI) and a Fighter Combat Leader (FCL). He participated in the 1965 and 1971 Indo- Pak operations and was Mentioned­in­Despatches in each. He commanded two front­line strike squadrons and was awarded Vayu Sena Medal in 1980. A graduate of the Australian Joint Services Staff College, he was specially selected as the Director Air Staff Requirement at Air HQ and subsequently as the Air Attaché in France from Apr 93 to Mar 95.

In Mar 95, then Air Commodore M McMahon was appointed Air Officer Com-manding, Air Force Station Ambala. He used his vast experience to upgrade the operational environment and the flying effort was increased by 30 to 40 per cent. It was largely due to his tireless efforts that the three flying units located at Ambala won the top honours in the 1996 Western Air Command Gunnery Meet. He successfully marshalled available resources towards reducing accidents as a result of bird strikes and improving the airfield environment resulting in safe and efficient operations.

He was also instrumental in supervising the runway resurfacing work which was completed in a record time of ten weeks. All these tasks were achieved by most effective use of existing personnel and material resources.

Air Vice Marshal M McMahon, VM has thus rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Commodore AN Sen was commissioned as a Fighter Pilot on 18 Apr 64. A veteran of both Indo­Pak wars, he is a Fighter Combat Leader, a Production Test Pilot and also served as Directing Staff at College of Air Warfare. He has commanded a MiG­21 Squadron, two stations and the Institute of Flight Safety. He has also been Director Systems Evaluation at Air Hqs arid Command Air Defence Officer at HQ Western Air Command.

He was Air Officer Commanding, Air Force Station Pune from Apr 93 to May 95. During the devastating earthquake at Latur in 1993 he effectively co-ordinated a large number of relief measures. The successful conduct of training of 100 personnel of Royal Malaysian Air Force on MiG­29 aircraft was another achievement during his command of the station which was over and above the normal allotted task of the Station.

Air Cmde Sen was posted as Air­1, HQ South Western Air Command in May 95. He was entrusted with responsibility for planning and conduct of a Fire Power Demonstration (FPD) at Pokhran in Nov 95. This was the largest FPD conducted since 1989 and was witnessed by the RRM, the three Service Chiefs, and a large number of MPs. By all standards, it was a spectacular show. The Air Officer also displayed high level of professional skills during planning and conduct of the Air Force level exercise in which many new concepts were tried out successfully.

Air Commodore Amlendra Nath Sen has thus rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Cmde PK Pinto was commissioned as a pilot on 18 Apr 64. During his long and meritorious service, he gained fully operational status on Dakota, Fairchild Packet, AN-12, IL-76 and AN-32 aircraft and aircrew category of 'A' Master Green. He commanded an AN-32 Squadron and a major Air Defence Radar Unit. He was Chief Operations Officer at a major transport base. A graduate of College of Defence Management, he was appointed Air Officer Commanding of a major transport base in the East in Jun 95.

A major task of his station is Air Maintenance of the North Eastern states - a daunting task in the face of highly erratic climatic conditions and treacherous terrain existing in the area. In a very short time and with application of his professional acumen, managerial skills and untiring perseverance, he brought about great change in the operational capability of his station. The squadrons achieved and exceeded the air maintenance task, earlier in a back log, during the period of his command. His exceptional planning skills helped in meticulous planning and execution of the Eastern Air Command Air Exercise. Under his guidance and dynamic leadership, the flying units at his station were able to successfully participate in a major para dropping exercise in the Desert Sector. By dynamic leadership, he brought up the flying units of his base to a very high operational preparedness. An astute administrator and highly conscious of the environment, he made all efforts to protect the ecology and yet improved the quality of life at the station by optimising the resources.

Air Commodore Peter Keith Pinto has thus rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Commodore Ivor Percival Alexander was commissioned on 18 Apr 64 as a transport Pilot. He has held various important Command and Staff appointments which include the command of a transport Squadron, an Air Defence Radar Unit and an Electronic Intelligence Flight.

A graduate of college of Defence Management, he was also the first Air Commodore (Air Borne Operations) at the Army Training Command.

Air Cmde IP Alexander was appointed the Air Officer Commanding of Air Force Station Chandigarh on 03 Jan 94. He has been instrumental in indigenizing the role equipment for the Mi­26 helicopters which included rollers for the cargo compartment, underslung container and figment of a new advanced radar. This not only enhanced the operational employability of the aircraft but also reduced turn around time resulting in better utilization of aircraft. As a result, the aircrew could undertake larger number of missions and improve upon their operational training status.

Under his dynamic command, the air maintenance task for 94-95 and 95-96 was exceeded by 432 and 517 tonnes respectively. At a time when spares availability was at its lowest he achieved 100% serviceability on the ageing fleets of MiG-21, AN-32 and IL-76 aircraft for durations varying from 7 to 100 days. With his determined effort he was successful in clearing the vegetation on both sides of the runway in record time thereby reducing bird hits, a major hazard to flight safety.

Air Commodore Ivor Percival Alexander has thus rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Commodore PK Misra was commissioned in Education Branch on 26 Sep 64 and later joined the Department of Judge Advocate General (JAG) (Air) in 1969. Since then, he has acquitted himself commendably in a series of legal assignments at various Commands and Air HQ. He was appointed JAG (Air) on 26 May 93. A graduate of Defence Services Staff College, a law graduate and a post graduate in English, he authored a number of booklets on Air Force Law and allied subjects which have proved beneficial to the officers in the field in dealing with legal issues.

His biggest achievement is in the field of fighting civil litigation on behalf of the 1AF and Union of India. He has been closely monitoring the progress of numerous court cases to safeguard the interest of Air Force. Through his timely intervention and professional competence, he has ensured that decisions of the courts when in favour of the Union of India. In certain cases, he strove hard and got some adverse decisions reversed in appeal thus saving the Government heavy expenditure.

The Air Officer took upon the tasks of revision of Regulations for the Air Force 1964 and amendments to Air Force Act 1950. He accomplished these tasks expeditiously. He is also spearheading the proposal for setting up a separate tribunal for speedier disposal of cases pertaining to service personnel. Due to his untiring efforts he has greatly contributed in improving the discipline and morale of the IAF.

Air Commodore Pramod Kumar Misra has thus rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Cmde MS Singha was commissioned as a pilot on 16 Oct 65 and is the Air Officer Commanding, Air Force Station, Yelahanka since 18 Sep 95. An exceptional flier, he holds the highest aircrew category, A Master Green, with over 7300 hours of accident free flying. During his long and meritorious service, he has numerous outstanding achievements to his credit, including very successful tenures as Chief Operations Officer of an Operational Wing, Commanding Officer of IL-76 Squadron and Air­II of HQ Eastern Command, IAF. An A-2 Qualified Flying Instructor, he was on deputation to the Republic of Singapore Air Force for two years. For exceptional devotion to duty, he was awarded Vayu Sena Medal in 1987.

Air Cmde Singha was given the responsibility of planning and executing India's most prestigious International Aerospace Exposition, “Aero India 96" which was held at Air Force Station Yelahanka from 03 to 07 Dec 96. This was the first ever Show of this magnitude conceived by the Ministry of Defence with a lead time of just 11 months to bring up the necessary infrastructure of international standard at the Air Force Station.

Air Cmde Singha had the enormous task of planning, coordinating and executing numerous activities simultaneously. Those included bringing up of a modern and well equipped Flight Operations Center, a VIP Receptorium, a brand new Hangar to accommodate the business stalls of the foreign traders, a security wall around the Station, captive power and extension of dispersal to house additional aircraft. It was also his responsibility to manage security throughout the build up phase and during the Show. In addition the Flying Training courses had to be planned and passed out in such a way that they did not interfere with the Air Show. The Air Officer achieved each one of these tasks well within the prescribed time frame maintaining excellent standard in each sphere of activity. Over 101 foreign and 47 Indian exhibitors participated in the Exposition which drew more than 50,000 viewers. The Prime Minister of India deeply appreciated the effort put in towards the Exposition. All the delegates too, who participated in the event, acclaimed the event as an outstanding success.

Air Commodore Mohinderjit Singh Singha has thus rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Commodore S Bhojwani, VSM was commissioned as a Fighter Pilot on 16 Oct 65. He has held the appointment of Air Force Examiner and has done instructional assignments at Defence Services Staff College and College of Air Warfare. He commanded two MiG­21 Squadrons and served as Chief Operations Officer at a front line Jaguar base. He has also held staff appointments at Directorate of Operations (Offensive) and Personnel (Officers) at Air HQ. He was awarded Vishisht Seva Medal in 1993. He is an A-1 Qualified Flying Instructor, a Fighter Combat Leader and a graduate of RAF Staff College, UK.

Air Cmde S Bhojwani was appointed as Air Officer Commanding, Air Force Station Gwalior on 06 Feb 95. Soon thereafter the station was given responsibility for conduct of major Air Force exercises in this sector. He met the exacting demands of induction of a large number of fighter detachments, Missile elements and radar units from other Commands. He worked tirelessly at activating the Singpur Air to Ground firing Range, using only local resources. This range is now an invaluable asset and is being used regularly. He conceived the automation of observation post reports and range firing accuracy with the help of computers and has inculcated wide spread awareness of intelligent use of computers.

All tasks were achieved without compromising on the routine administration of the station, while providing better living and working conditions for the personnel of the station. The serviceability of aircraft and flying effort have both gone up significantly during his tenure.

Air Commodore Subhash Bhojwani has thus rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Flight Lieutenant Sandeep Jain was posted with a Helicopter Unit since 19 Dec 94. He was a disciplined and devoted officer of Indian Air Force. During the month of August 1996 Flight Lieutenant Sandeep Jain was on detachment to carry out air maintenance in OP Meghdoot area. During this period enemy had redeployed the forces in Southern glacier Area and had established new Bunkers at commanding positions directly threatening Indian Army Posts. Accessibility to our posts had also become extremely difficult since helicopter route to the post was under the enemy's constant watch and threat. It was a matter of great concern, since our post could not be air maintained under the circumstances. Withdrawing our forces was considered against the interest of National Security.

It was therefore decided to launch a few dedicated air maintenance stories to maintain crucial posts at Hoshiyar. Flight Lieutenant Sandeep Jain was detailed Captain of these special missions. He was thoroughly briefed about the risk involved. Notwithstanding the risk, dedicated crew under the Command of Flight Lieutenant Sandeep Jain undertook the challenging task bravely and intelligently. Two such missions were carried out successfully in spite of enemy's interference. During the third sortie on 26 Aug 96 after the load was dropped helicopter was engaged by the enemy ground forces and shot down killing Flight Lieutenant Sandeep Jain and his crew.

Flight Lieutenant Sandeep Jain showed exemplary courage and dedication by undertaking extremely difficult task in the face of known enemy threat and made ultimate sacrifice for the national interest.

Flight Lieutenant Sandeep Khajuria was commissioned in the IAF in September 1989. He is presently posted at a signal Unit in Air Force.

On the night of 2nd March, 1993, while he was working in GCA, from the conversations of the controllers on the duty he learned that an aircraft piloted by Fg Offr SS Chouhan (20996) F(P) had crashed–landed on the side of the runway. He immediately set out for the crash landing site. On reaching the site, which took him about 10 minutes, he observed that fire fighting was in progress and the pilot was still in the cockpit with canopy closed. Notwithstanding the risk of his personal life, he advanced to the canopy to rescue the pilot. The men who were only waiting for such daring leadership also ignored the risk of being engulfed by the fire and joined him in rescuing the pilot who was in unconscious state. The aircraft fuel tank exploded immediately following the rescue.

Flight Lieutenant Sandeep Khajuria, thus, ignoring personal safety appropriate leadership at the time of a crisis saved a life.

Pilot Officer Vaibhav Bhagwat was on the posted strength of 130 Helicopter unit since 22 Jul 96 till 26 Aug 96, when he laid down his life for the country.

Pilot Officer Vaibhav Bhagwat was detailed as a co-pilot for crucial air-maintenance sorties in Op-Meghdoot area during the month of Aug 1996 when enemy had redeployed forces threatening out posts in the area. On 26 Aug 96, a special sortie was undertaken in Mi-17 Helicopter to Hoshiyar post on the Southern Glacier. The post was threatened by enemy fire but air maintenance was planned to drop essential supplies to maintain our troops. After the load was dropped, the helicopter was engaged by enemy ground fire and shot down killing all the occupants.

Pilot Officer Vaibhav Bhagwat displayed exhibiting bravery, courage and devotion to his duty of the highest order and laid down his life for the country in the true tradition of the Indian Air Force.

Group Captain S Mani, VSM was commissioned as a Fighter Pilot on 22 Dec 73. An experienced Qualified Flying Instructor, he has over 3600 hours of accident free flying. He was awarded VSM in Jan 1993 and was appointed Commanding Officer of a MiG 21 Squadron in Sep 94.

He led his team from up front and motivated the Squadron personnel to excel in their duties. He personally led the Squadron in a Fire Power Demonstration at Pokhran, a 6 Aircraft Fly Past for President's Standard Presentation at Jodhpur and all the exercises and numerous detachments to other stations. Inspite of extreme climatic conditions at Uttarlai and the Squadron Maintenance Flight being located at Jodhpur, he not only sustained the tempo of fighter flying training but also enhanced it. The Squadron flew over 6000 sorties amounting to 3750 hours during his tenure, which was far higher than ever flown before. Eight pilots were declared fully operational and many others were trained for both day and night flying so as to enhance the operational status of the Squadron. The Unit was inspected by Directorate of Air Staff Inspection and assessed as high average. Considering that the Squadron had to operate from different bases these achievements are noteworthy.

Gp Capt S Mani showed unique determination, steadfastness, physical and mental endurance and flew over 400 hours while in command of the Sqn.

For exceptional devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Group Captain Shankar Mani.

Wing Commander Rakesh Kumar Jolly was commissioned on 11 Jul 75 in the Fighter Stream of the Indian Air Force. Since then he has flown over 3700 hours of accident free flying. He is an A-2 Qualified Flying Instructor and an alumnus of Defence Services Staff College.

Wg Cdr Jolly assumed command of a front-line MiG-21 Bis Squadron in March 1995. With his professional attitude and attention to detail, Wg Cdr Jolly's leadership was instrumental in significant and tangible achievements of the Squadron.

The Squadron performed well in all fields and was assessed as Average Plus by Directorate of Air Staff Inspection. In the 1996-97 Inter Squadron Gunnery Meet, Wg Cdr Jolly steered his unit to the first position in rocketry, and to the second position overall. Despite constraints of weather, and frequent detachments, the Squadron was able to achieve 100% operational and instrument rating status and an enviable flight safety record. The Squadron bagged the inter-unit sports trophy for 1995-96 and also achieved one of the best aircraft serviceability status in the MiG-21 Bis Fleet.

For exceptional devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Wing Commander Rakesh Kumar Jolly.

Wing Commander Ravi Kant Sharma has been commanding the Maritime Strike Jaguar Squadron. He is a Test Pilot and a Qualified Flying Instructor with more than 2900 hours of accident free flying, of which nearly 1400 hours are on Jaguar aircraft. An alumnus of Defence Services Staff College he has held various important appointments like Flight Commander of a Jaguar Squadron and Deputy Director at Air Headquarters.

During his tenure as Commanding Officer, the Squadron had consistently completed the command task. In every exercise that the Squadron had taken part, it had performed extremely well. In Command Gunnery Meet, the Squadron was overall runner up. The Directorate of Maintenance and Inspection team, which carried out Quality Audit of the Jaguar fleet in Oct 95, had a special word of appreciation for the Squadron with respect to its maintenance practices. To cap all the achievements, the Squadron was assessed Average Plus in all three disciplines of Operations, Maintenance and Administration by Directorate of Air Staff Inspection in Nov 95. The achievements were a direct result of the able leadership provided by Wg Cdr RK Sharma.

Wg Cdr RK Sharma is a thorough professional, with a keen eye for details. It was due to his total involvement that the operational status of the Squadron has remained very high. He ensured that the serviceability state of the aircraft in the Squadron remained consistently high to meet its various operational and training commitments.

For exceptional devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Wing Commander Ravi Kant Sharma.

Wing Commander Muthumanickam Matheswaran was commissioned on 11 Jul 75 as a Fighter Pilot. He is an Experimental Test Pilot and a Fighter Combat Leader. He was actively involved in the formulation and dissemination of tactics at Tactics and Air Combat Development Establishment. He has 2800 hours of flying experience with over 2000 hours on MiG-21 and Jaguar aircraft.

Wg Cdr M Matheswaran took over Command of a Jaguar Squadron (Sqn) in Jan 95. At that time the Sqn faced very poor serviceability. The aircrew state and the supervisory status was very low. In the next one year Wg Cdr Matheswaran set out to mould the officers and men of the Sqn into an effective and powerful team. The Sqn flew over 2500 accident free hours during the next one year despite severe constraints of low aircraft availability and large number of under-training pilots. He guided his technical officers and airmen to ensure that effective serviceability was maintained at a very high level and air crew training had the cutting edge of professionalism. Within one year and five months the Sqn achieved 100 per cent operational status and over 90% instrument rating. The Sqn has flown the maximum hours for a fighter Sqn in Western Air Command.

By this sound administration, professional competence, personal example and excellent leadership, he has moulded the Sqn into an effective combat unit.

For exceptional devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Wing Commander Muthumanickam Matheswaran.

Wing Commander Rahul Dhar, SC was commissioned as a Fighter Pilot on 13 Jun 76. An A-2 Qualified Flying Instructor and a Test Pilot, he has 3700 hours of accident free flying. He was awarded Shaurya Chakra in 1980.

He assumed command of a Jaguar Squadron in Apr 95. During his tenure of one year, the Squadron flew 2632 sorties amounting to 2413 hours. Of this, he flew 320 hours himself. He displayed boundless enthusiasm to ensure that his Squadron carried out realistic role oriented training. All operational pilots became qualified on the specialist equipment of the squadron in record time. The officer was also instrumental in evolving and implementing specialised tactics for the Squadron. A considerable improvement in the overall operational status of the Squadron emerged as a result of his efforts.

At Wg Cdr Dhar's initiative, a new take off and departure technique was formulated, tested and implemented. This ensured the maximum possible protection from bird hits.

He flew the lead aircraft for the Air Force and Republic Day flypasts; both of which earned the appreciation of one and all.

Due to his non stop effort, a noticeable improvement in the Avionics serviceability and an appreciable change in the Squadron work culture was achieved. Many innovative welfare measures were instituted which helped greatly in raising morale.

For exceptional devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Wing Commander Rahul Dhar, SC.

Wing Commander Satnam Singh was commissioned as a Fighter Pilot on 26 Dec 76. A Fighter Combat Leader and an alumnus of Defence Services Staff College, he has been in command of a MiG-21 Squadron since Jun 95. He has 2300 hours of accident free flying. By his personal example, he has been able to motivate the Squadron to achieve very high standards of professionalism both on the ground and the air.

During the Fire Power Demonstration at Pokharan Range in Oct 95, he successfully led the Squadron team and carried out precision Napalm bombing which was widely acclaimed by the press and foreign dignitaries. During the Command Gunnery Meet, the Squadron won three team events, the individual bombing event and the overall championship. During the Aircrew Examining Board visit in Mar 96, all aircrew obtained exceptional grading in the ground subjects test. He ensured upgradation of operational status of 8 pilots in a record time.

For exceptional devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Wing Commander Satnam Singh.

Wing Commander Arun Purushottam Garud was commissioned as a Helicopter Pilot on 29 Dec 76. An A-2 Qualified Flying Instructor, he has instructed at four flying training establishments including the prestigious Flying Instructors School. He is a graduate of Defence Services Staff College and has 5200 hours of accident free flying to his credit.

Wg Cdr AP Garud was posted to Air Force Academy on 10 Aug 92. He was instrumental in planning and executing flying training of eleven courses including three women courses. Over 200 trainees graduated under his guidance and his Squadron flew over 10,000 accident free hours in this period. Wg Cdr Garud managed this outstanding feat by focusing his attention on critical areas of flying and conducting workshops personally, to educate each staff and student alike. He achieved each of his enormous time bound tasks always on schedule through effective supervision, dedication and example.

Wg Cdr Garud fabricated several training aids which had valuable impact on basic training. These included a video film on circuit and landing and computer graphics for scan patterns in Instrument Flying. All these training aids are used by over two hundred trainees and seventy Flying Instructors every year.

For exceptional devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Wg Cdr Arun Purushottam Garud.

Wing Commander Pochana Prasad Reddy was commissioned as a Fighter Pilot on 10 Jun 77. A Qualified Flying Instructor and a Test Pilot, he has 2800 hours of accident free flying. He is on the posted strength of a Base Repair Depot at Kanpur since 17 May 93 as the Chief Test Pilot.

As Chief Test Pilot, he air tested and supervised air testing and ferrying of MiG-21 variants, Mirage 2000 and AN 32 aircraft. He carried out a total of 253 air tests on MiG-21 variants handling several system malfunctions with utmost professionalism and aplomb. His contribution in the preparation of schedules and conduct of the flight test programme for first AN-32 aircraft overhauled at the BRD was praise worthy.

Being the only Test Pilot available at Kanpur, he was also assigned the task of air testing of HAL (Kanpur) manufactured aircraft such as Avro, HPT-32 and Dornier, which helped HAL Kanpur Division to achieve their production task in time. All this task was achieved without any incidents/accidents.

For exceptional devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Wing Commander Pochana Prasad Reddy.

Wing Commander Kuldeep Singh Bhardwaj was commissioned as a Fighter Pilot on 28 Dec 77. He has held the appointment of Deputy Flight Commander of a MiG 27 Squadron. A Pilot Attack Instructor and a Qualified Flying Instructor, he is also a graduate of Defence Services Staff College. He is on the posted strength of Basic Flying Training School, Allahabad since 01 May 94, as Chief Flying Instructor. He has 2800 hours of accident free flying of which 711 hours have been flown during his present tenure. He has been instrumental in formation of Standard Operational Procedures, Phase Briefs, Briefing Guides and a large number of presentations towards improving the quality of flying training. For a period of nine months he discharged duties and responsibilities of two Chief Flying Instructors all by himself. Additionally, he was assigned the duties of Chief Operations Officer of the AF base for a period of two months.

As a senior supervisor, he did not confine his responsibility to flying training alone. He closely monitored the overall quality of training to ensure that good future officers join the Indian Air Force for its growth. With his attitude of leading from the front, he has effectively spread a mixture of professional efficiency and enthusiasm among instructional staff and trainees. The quality of flying and ground training at the Institute has shown a definite and positive improvement.

For exceptional devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Wing Commander Kuldeep Singh Bhardwaj.

Wing Commander Janakiram Balasubramanian, SC was commissioned as a Transport Pilot on 30 Dec 78. A Qualified Flying Instructor, he is on the posted strength of Air HQ Communication Squadron since May 93. An experienced flier, with over 7200 flours of accident free flying, he was earlier a Command Examiner in the Eastern Air Command on the AN-32 aircraft. He was awarded Shaurya Chakra as a Flying Officer in 1982.

Despite a long gap in flying the Avro aircraft, Wg Cdr Balasubramanian attained the highest category of A/MG and was cleared for VVIP flying within a short period. He took over as 'A' Flight Commander in Oct 94 and worked in a very systematic and professional manner which resulted in an exceptionally high VVIP clearance state of the Flight. The Flight, under his leadership, undertook the onerous task of flying VVIPs safely to short and difficult airfields where only the Avro can operate.

Wg Cdr Balasubramanian was additionally tasked with the responsibility of in-flight catering services and the maintenance of the ground equipment, a twin responsibility never undertaken by any officer before. He ensured a very high and commendable standard in a cost effective manner without any audit observations.

For exceptional devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Wing Commander Janakiram Balasubramanian, SC.

Squadron Leader R Varma is on the posted strength of a Mirage-2000 Squadron since 30 Apr 95. On 19 Oct 95, he was authorised to lead a 3 aircraft (ac) versus 2 air combat sortie in Mirage-2000 ac.

After two combat situations when the formation was regrouping, a nut on the engine front mounting of his aircraft came off. This caused the engine front part to come down and the drive shaft from the engine to the gear box got damaged and stopped rotating. As a result, the alternators and hydraulic pumps stopped running.

In the air, the pilot was faced with a total electrical and hydraulic failure. A series of warning lights including the failure of the fly by wire control system came on. The pilot reacted to the grave emergency situation with thorough professionalism and commenced the recovery of the crippled aircraft, which had to land within 30 minutes failing which an ejection was mandatory. All displays, having failed, the recovery was to be carried out with only the stand by systems. With sheer grit and determination and in keeping with the highest traditions of IAF, he brought the aircraft down to a safe landing thus saving an extremely precious national asset from being lost.

For this act of exceptional courage, the President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Squadron Leader Rohit Varma.

Squadron Leader Prabhamohan Mohandas Baliga was commissioned as a Transport Pilot on 04 Jun 82. He is a Qualified Flying Instructor holding A-2 instructional category and has been on the Flying Staff of Flying Instructors School at Tambaram since 05 Jan 95.

On 01 Nov 95, while carrying out an instructional sortie on Kiran aircraft, at a height of 14000 feet, he experienced engine vibrations followed by a flame out. He took over control immediately, turned towards base and attempted relights. After three unsuccessful attempts, he decided to force land the aircraft. At this stage, his height was barely sufficient to land on the runway in use. Thereafter, he took a prompt decision to land on secondary runway after ascertaining the winds. This decision ensured safe recovery of the aircraft resulting in a perfect dead stick landing at Tambaram airfield. Throughout the emergency, the pilot remained calm and composed and monitored all parameters vital for the investigation of the cause of the incident. Recovery of the aircraft ensured investigation of mechanical failure that occurred which would not have been possible if the aircraft had been abandoned.

For exceptional devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Squadron Leader Prabhamohan Mohandas Baliga.

Squadron Leader Sanjay Thapar is on the posted strength of Aerial Delivery Research & Development Establishment, Agra since 15 May 96. He is the most qualified Sky Diving Instructor in the country.

This enthusiastic and dynamic officer holds many records. He has 1806 accident free jumps from 21 types of aircraft and helicopters, the highest number carried out by any Indian so far. He is the reigning "National Champion" in various disciplines of sport since 1991. On 11 Mar 91 he set a world record by carrying out 46 skydiving jumps in a short span of three hours using two Mi-17 helicopters simultaneously. Another record was set on 26 Jun 1992 by jumping with an IAF flag measuring 1000 sq ft almost four times the size of his parachute. All these feats are duly recorded in "Limca Book of Records".

On 21 Apr 96, he earned yet another distinction when he carried out a Sky Diving jump at the North Pole. He jumped from the height of 10,000 feet in toughest weather conditions where the wind speed was above 40 kms per hour and the temperature was as low as - 26 degree C on the ground and - 68 degree C in the air. He became the first Indian to perform this daring act and hoist the Indian National Flag at North Pole. A pioneer in the field, he has brought laurels to the IAF and the country.

For exceptional devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Squadron Leader Sanjay Thapar.

Squadron Leader Rajeev Sharma has been on the posted strength of 142 Survival Security and Support Flight (SSS Fit) since 27 Jun 95 and has been performing the duties of Flight Commander.

On 11 Oct 95, one Cheetah Helicopter carried out a heavy landing at Green lake area near Kanchanjunga Base Camp at an altitude of 16,000 feet due to a technical defect. The engine and under-carriage system suffered damage and repairs were necessary to recover the helicopter. Sqn Ldr Sharma flew 26 sorties in six days despite marginal weather to transport the repair team upto Base Camp and also to keep them supplied with necessary spares. He stayed with the repair team at Kanchanjunga Base Camp at 16,000 feet for a period of six days, braving snow fall and extreme cold temperature of upto -22 degrees C to motivate and provide moral support to the personnel working on the helicopter. He successfully controlled and co-ordinated all operational and maintenance activities. After the repairs were completed, he flew the helicopter back to base. His contribution to the entire recovery operation was invaluable.

In Nov 95, 142 SSS Flt was tasked to rescue and evacuate 16 tourists trapped due to heavy snowfall and bad weather from Lingshi and Gasa in Bhutan. Exhibiting professional skill of a very high order and at great personal risks, Sqn Ldr Sharma carried out these rescue operations in inclement weather and difficult terrain. This was highly appreciated by Government of Bhutan.

For exceptional devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Squadron Leader Rajeev Sharma.

Flight Lieutenant Samir Jay Pendse was on the posted strength of 114 Helicopter Unit from 06 Sep 93 to 09 Oct 95. He has carried out more than 425 accident and incident free landings at the world's highest helipads in the 'Op Meghdoot' area.

On 28 Aug 95 he was tasked to go to the rescue of a BSF expedition to Saser Kangri. Flt Lt Pendse got airborne as the leader of a two helicopter formation with 20 minutes of the SOS call. Aerial reconnaissance revealed that the only way to rescue the team was to land at an uneven ledge at 18,500 ft. Braving strong and turbulent winds and in fading light conditions, with exemplary courage he landed his helicopter on the small 4M x 4M ledge and rescued the stranded personnel of the BSF expedition. Following another SOS he again lead his formation and once again braving inclement weather and extremely strong and gusty winds air dropped vital supplies to the search party. In carrying out these two missions, Flt Lt Pendse, in keeping with the highest traditions of the IAF, displayed exceptional courage and professionalism.

For exceptional courage, the President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Flight Lieutenant Samir Jay Pendse.

Flight Lieutenant Sunil Kumar Kashyap is on the posted strength of an AN-32 Sqn in the Eastern Sector since 08 Dec 91.

On 02 Aug 95, Flt Lt Kashyap was authorised to fly an air maintenance supply drop sortie to a forward Dropping Zone (DZ). This DZ is small in size and is situated in a narrow valley. Due to this only part load can be dropped on one circuit. Further, topography of DZ necessitates an immediate climb after the drop as there are steep hills in the direction of drop and on the down wind side. Flt Lt Kashyap decided to drop three skid boards during the first circuit. As the skid boards were being released from the aircraft, the star-board engine failed. Flt Lt Kashyap remained calm and put on additional bank which brought the aircraft to the limits of its flight envelop. He skillfully turned the aircraft in the narrow valley clearing the high hills around the DZ. After clearing the immediate hills he tried to climb to route safety height but could not do so as the aircraft refused to respond due to prevailing high temperature and humidity. He then decided to follow the escape route by following the valley and crossing over high ridges with very little safety margin. Throughout the emergency he remained calm, continued to fly skillfully and safely landed the aircraft at Chabua. He displayed unflinching determination and professionalism of a very high order, in keeping with the highest traditions of the Air Force, in handling of the emergency and safe recovery of the aircraft.

For exceptional courage, the President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Flight Lieutenant Sunil Kumar Kashyap.

Flight Lieutenant Vivek Chaturvedi (20788) Flying (Pilot) is on the posted strength of 114 HU, AF from 15 May 95. He has flown 380 hours in the inhospitable terrain of Siachen Glacier without any accident/incident, under constant threat of enemy fire.

On 16 Aug 96, Flight Lieutenant Vivek Chaturvedi was detailed as captain to carry out a routine air maintenance sortie to Amar, a helipad at 20,000 ft. in the Op. Meghdoot area. After landing, while the aircraft was being unloaded, heavy enemy shelling began. Shells landed close to the aircraft damaging the canopy and showering the aircraft with debris. Flt Lt Chaturvedi maintained his composure and analysed the circumstances in a cool and calculated manner. Realising the gravity of the situation and the threat to the safety of the aircraft he quickly ordered the stopping of the unloading and executed a safe take off. Finding that the vital parameters of the aircraft were normal, he skillfully flew the damaged aircraft to Base Camp, and carried out a safe landing. Post flight inspection revealed damage to two main rotor blades, resulting in their being withdrawn from service, and to the engine mounting.

Flight Lieutenant Vivek Chaturvedi, displaying exemplary professionalism, ability to think calmly under stress and react quickly under enemy fire, and flying skills of a very high order saved a valuable aircraft.

For his bravery in the face of the enemy and exemplary professionalism, the President is pleased to award "Vayu Sena Medal" to Flight Lieutenant Vivek Chaturvedi.

Air Commodore RC Mahadik was commissioned on 27 Jun 64 as a Fighter Controller in Administrative Branch. He is one of the first few controllers to earn 'A' category. He has held many important assignments which include Senior Operations Officer of an Air Defence Direction Centre, Inspector in Directorate of Air Staff Inspection and Joint Director Air Defence (Ground Environment) at Air Headquarters. In the last assignment he was instrumental in making the QRs for Futuristic Automatic Data Handling Systems, conducting trials of Control and Reporting Centre (CRC) networking, and selection of low level radars for CRCs. He was appointed Chief Administrative Officer of Air Force Station Pune in Dec 93.

He wasted no time in plunging himself deeply into the job so that a sound administrative support was set up to create a safe flying environment. Whether it was airfield maintenance or welfare of the men working on the machines, Air Cmde Mahadik left no stones unturned to ensure that they were given the requisite support to the full satisfaction of the operators. In the field of work services, it was his sole initiative which saw the conversion of old buildings into comfortable dwellings with a fresh life of another 20 to 25 years at minimal cost. Air Cmde Mahadik ensured healthy growth of all the non-public funds. These were used very judiciously to improve the quality of life in the station.

For distinguished services of high order, the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Air Commodore RC Mahadik.

Air Commodore SM Sethi was commissioned in the Flying Branch as a transport pilot on 16 Mar 65. He holds the highest transport aircrew category and has more than 8700 hours of accident free flying on various types of aircraft with extensive experience in the difficult terrain of Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh and Ladakh. He is fully operational on all roles undertaken by transport aircraft including bombing. He has held appointment of Flight Commander, has commanded two transport squadrons and has been a Group Commander in NCC.

His first tenure as a Commanding Officer of an AN-32 squadron was dedicated to the task of providing much needed supplies and mobility to IPKF in Sri Lanka. Air Cmde Sethi was appointed as the Commanding Officer of the only AN-32 transport squadron. Under his exemplary leadership and professional guidance, the squadron achieved all tasks. He improved the categorisation state, ensured a higher serviceability state and maintained a record of zero accidents due to human error and also fulfilled the bombing tasks.

Air Cmde Sethi was the type force commander for battalion group para drop exercises, conducted in May 95 and Apr 96. He led a large formation of AN-32 aircraft by night and achieved excellent results in both exercises without any incident. This was possible due to his extensive preparation with an eye for the minute details and thorough briefings and de-briefings.

For distinguished services of a high order, the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Air Cmde SM Sethi.

Air Commodore SC Luthra was commissioned on 19 Jun 63 in the Medical Branch. He was appointed Commandant of Institute of Aviation Medicine (IAM) in Sep 93. Immediately after taking over he brought the unserviceable Decompression Chamber not only on line but also upgraded it to attainment of altitude upto 1,00,000 feet as against the original capability of only 25,000 feet. He also took significant measures to maintain and upgrade Human Centrifuge of old vintage purchased over 30 years back to peak 100% serviceability state.

Air Cmde Luthra, with his vast experience of teaching and research and as Chairman of Board of Studies in Aviation Medicine of Bangalore University has been able to create ideal academic atmosphere at IAM. 33 research projects have been undertaken during his tenure. Aeronautical Research Development Board had funded projects worth Rs. 28.26 lakhs during 95-96. Psychological Research Centre, the first of its kind in the IAF, has been set up through pooling of local resources. Computerised Battery of Selection Tests developed by IAM are under validation through field trials. A film on Spatial Disorientation has been produced during 1994 and has been circulated to all flying units in the IAF. The average waiting period for Medical Boards has been brought down to 4-5 days as against 9 days for the last 3 years without compromising quality of assessment.

For distinguished services of a high order, the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Air Cmde SC Luthra.

Group Captain RC Goyal was commissioned on 06 Apr 64 in the Engineering Branch. He has been the Chief Engineering Officer of an operational wing and Head of Faculty (Electronics) at Air Force Technical College. He was posted to Air HQ as Joint Director Telecommunications in Feb 95.

Immediately after taking over, the officer streamlined total activities of the directorate. His department looks after the procurement and maintenance of 62 varieties of Communication and Radio Navigation Aids equipment. He initiated measures to procure the deficient equipment and the entire lot of deficiencies were ordered. The supplies have already commenced. The officer undertook the massive task of studying the life cycle cost of the old equipment introduced two to three decades earlier and initiated measures to declare uneconomical and technically outdated equipment as obsolete.

The officer undertook an all India survey to identify indigenous spares and subsystems which were hitherto imported. His efforts by close liaison with DRDO, Manufacturers and stockists resulted in FE saving of aprox. Rs. 15 lakh. The officer was instrumental in design and fabrication of V/UHF radio vehicles which saw induction in service in a record time wherein delivery of 65 radio vehicles have taken place 6 months ahead of schedule.

For distinguished services of a high order, the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Gp Capt RC Goyal.

Group Captain V Channa was commissioned on 04 Jun 67 as a Fighter Pilot. He has held the appointments of Flight Commander in a fighter squadron, Chief Operations Officer of a Flying Wing and Command Flight Safety and Inspection Officer in Central Air Command. He was appointed Station Commander of Air Force Station, Suryalanka in Jul 94.

In Apr 95, the Air Defence elements of the Indian Army arrived at the Station for missile and Gun firing. The total manpower of the Army was 2000 men and 200 officers. Initially, all Army personnel had camped in tents just outside the AF station. However, due to torrential rains and heavy flooding the Army personnel had to be evacuated and provided emergency shelter inside the AF Station. This was the first time that such as huge strength of Army personnel stepped into any AF Station of the IAF. Under the able leadership of Gp Capt Channa the Station was geared up to meet the requirements of logistics technical and administrative services for an extended period of over one and half months. With his meticulous planning and untiring efforts, the task of safe firing of missiles and guns by all Army elements was achieved under extremely difficult and adverse conditions. Operational and administrative support provided to the Army by the IAF on war footing under heavy odds was very well appreciated.

In addition to conduct of safe firing, he also undertook the task of uplifting the station environment and improving the living conditions. Although the station is remotely located with very scarce resources, yet with his dedicated work it has become a prime station of Southern Air Command.

For distinguished services of a high order, the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Gp Capt V Channa.

Group Captain SK Jayarajan was commissioned on 23 Jan 68 in the Logistics Branch. He has held important appointments like Materials Manager at Gas Turbine Research Establishment and Chief Instructor in the Faculty of Advanced Logistics Officers Course at Air Force Administrative College. He is a graduate of Defence Services Staff College and College of Defence Management. He was appointed Commanding Officer (CO) of an Air Storage Park (ASP) in Feb 95.

As CO, ASP, he ensured uninterrupted and expeditious support to operational units which helped them in improving their state of operational preparedness. He analysed the demands and stock position personally and took timely action for advance provisioning. He contributed immensely towards identification of non-moving stores and their disposal, thereby considerably reducing the inventory. Under his able guidance and leadership, the ASP accomplished the computerisation of entire range of stores. His sound professional capability and personal involvement has helped in creating new assets and retrieval of usable assets resulting in considerable savings.

For distinguished services of a high order, the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Gp Capt SK Jayarajan.

Group Captain HS Garkal was commissioned in the Administrative Branch on 15 Dec 68. He has acquitted himself creditably in a broad spectrum of challenging assignments which include Member of Directorate of Air Staff Inspection team, Command of a Ground Controlled Approach Squadron and Chief Administrtive Officer of an Air Force Station, Gp Capt Garkal attained a high degree of professional excellence as a category 'A' Air Traffic Controller and was selected as an examiner for five years. He was appointed Joint Director Organisation (Ceremonial) in Jan 95.

An alumnus of College of Defence Management, he applied his managerial skills and professional acumen in ensuring faultless planning and execution of National level ceremonial functions. In addition to his significant role in development of Air Force War memorial, the officer is also persuing the project of improving upon the Air Force Museum and Setting-up of IAF Archives. Gp Capt Garkal also played an important role in bringing out a documentary on History of Indian Air Force titled 'Air Force Day - A Time for Reminiscing' which was acclaimed by one and all. During his tenure the performance of AF Bands grew in stature and won laurels during the Victory Day celebration in Europe.

For distinguished services of a high order, the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Gp Capt HS Garkal.

Group Captain JS Thakur was commissioned on 21 Jun 69 as a Fighter Pilot. He has flown over 3500 accident free hours and has held important appointments including Command of a front line strike squadron and Chief Operations Officer of a MiG-27 base. He was the founder member and deputy leader of the famous Air Force Aerobatics Team, the "Thunder Bolts". Gp Capt Thakur has been officiating as Air-I, Central Air Command since Jan 96. During this period, a major Air Force exercise was Planned and conducted in the Central Air Command area of operations, involving induction and operations of forces on a scale unprecedented in the Command. Gp Capt Thakur ensured smooth operations of such large forces. Operations included setting up elaborate Control and Reporting centre and Communication network, deployment of Air Defence forces, issue of detailed orders and operating procedures for conduct of operations, as well as continuous liaison with other Commands and Air HQ. It was largely because of his professional approach and deep sense of commitment that the whole exercise was completed smoothly with over 650 accident/incident free sorties executed. The aim and objectives of the exercise were successfully achieved.

For distinguished services of a high order, the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Gp Capt JS Thakur.

Group Captain PPS Sandhu was commissioned in the Engineering Branch on 14 Jan 71. He has excelled himself exceedingly well in varied aspects of his profession. He set up overhaul lines of AI 20M and TV-2-117A engines at No. 3 Base Repair Depot. He has been the Senior Technical Officer of a MiG-23 BN squadron. An alumnus of Defence Services Staff College, he was specially selected as the leader of IAF Training Team in Botswana. He was appointed Chief Engineering Officer of Air Force Station, Hindon in Feb 95.

At Air Force Station, Hindon, he improved Aircraft serviceability to the highest in the fleet. He initiated rectifications and repairs which were earlier done by HAL, thereby reducing aircraft down time. With his expertise he recovered six aircraft on prolonged unserviceability. He also effected considerable saving by manufacturing the air intake blankings in station workshop. He extended his professional knowledge by recovering a large number of unserviceable missiles with indigenous repairs thereby saving foreign exchange.

For distinguished services of a high order, the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Gp Capt Parminder Pal Singh Sandhu.

Group Captain S Mukerji, SC (12925) F (P) was commissioned as a Fighter Pilot on 22 Jan 72. He has held the important appointments of Directing Staff at Tactics and Air Combat Development Establishment and Defence Services Staff College, as well as Commanding Officer (CO) of a MiG 29 Squadron. He was awarded Shurya Chakra in 1981. He has more than 3500 hours of accident free flying to his credit.

Gp Capt S Mukerji was appointed the CO of a Squadron in May 94. During his tenure, Gp Capt Mukerji was personally responsible for successful completion of two important tasks assigned to his Squadron. The first task of Mid Life Extension programme of aircraft, entailed a task force consisting of a team of Russian Specialists and IAF technicians & officers. The most important task of air testing & proving the air worthiness of each aircraft after modifications, which is normally the purview of the Test Pilots, was solely left to him. The successful and timely completion of the programme was mainly due to the meticulous planning and supervision by Gp Capt Mukerji.

The second task of photographing the Total Solar Eclipse entailed close team work with scientists of the Udaipur Solar Observatory. Gp Capt Mukerji led the team in planning & execution of the task which demanded the need to fly the aircraft with great precision & accuracy as well as split second timing to capture the sun at the exact moment of Totality and was successfully executed.

For distinguished services of a high order, the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Gp Capt Sumit Mukerji.

Group Captain S Swaminathan was commissioned as an Engineer on 03 Jan 72. He has held the appointments of Electronics System Operator Leader, Senior Technical Officer of a Mirage squadron and Deputy Director of Electronic Warfare. He was responsible for formulation of SOP, which was widely acclaimed.

He was appointed Chief Engineering Officer at Air Force Station, Bidar on Oct 94. Leading by personal example, he achieved very high standard of maintenance safety. He ensured high serviceability of aircraft, to achieve timely completion of three Pilots Courses.

He contributed immensely to achieve the targets set by Command and Air Headquarters. He maintained exceptional degree of quality of training of tradesmen through regular personal interaction with the personnel. He, with his foresight, accurate planning and perseverance, was able to provide a new purpose and direction to all the technical personnel who achieved challenging maintenance and safety tasks.

For distinguished services of a high order, the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Gp Capt S Swaminathan.

Wing Commander JS Boparai was commissioned on 17 Jun 72 in the Logistics Branch. He has been the Senior Logistics Officer (SLO) of a Base Repair Depot and Chief Logistics Officer of an equipment depot before being appointed SLO at Air Force Station, Halwara in Sep 93.

On assuming duties he recognised the pivotal role that Logistics play in the overall scheme of support to the combat units. He ensured that the spares were provided on as required basis. The squadrons were thus able to achieve their tasks and maintain excellent operational preparedness. It was partly due to his efforts that the entire Base was able to produce 100% serviceability and fly all aircraft on 06 Mar 96. In fact in both the years that he was the SLO, all units at this base achieved 100% serviceability on more than a few occasions.

Wg Cdr Boparai designed a cost effective drop tank storage system, which ensured safe storage, saved storage space and provided for easy maintainability. The Logistics section was assessed as highly satisfactory by the Directorate of Air Staff Inspection in 1995.

For distinguished services of a high order, the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wg Cdr JS Boparai.