Flying Officer Shashikant Anandnath Koppikar has been serving with an operational squadron since October 1966. On the 30th March 1971, he was detailed to carry out a training flight. When about 30 miles away from the base, he noticed a drop in his engine oil pressure and turned back. Later, he found that the techogenerator in the aircraft had also failed. About 20 miles from base, he heard a high pitched whine. He continued his efforts to control the engine but, when about six miles from base, there was a sudden loud noise and the aircraft began to vibrate. It also swung violently and began losing height at an abnormally high rate. He took corrective action and succeeded in regaining some control over the aircraft. Finally, the engine seized completely. Throughout these emergencies, he remained calm and by his judgment and skilful airmanship, he succeeded in landing the aircraft safely at base.