Sqn Ldr Manmohan Kumar Rana was commissioned into the IAF in July, 1967. He has held several important and challenging assignments during the last 17 years of his service.

For his outstanding performance in the ab-initio course at the Air Force Technical College, he was awarded the Chief of the Air Staff Medal. Subsequently, for his brilliant achievement in the Guided Weapons Course, he was awarded the President's Plaque.

In 1975, he was selected to be a member of the pioneering team for computerisation of Air HQ Information System. Single-handed, he conceived, designed, developed, programmed and implemented Aircraft & Aeroengine Status Reporting System "AIRSTAR", in the shortest possible time. For his invaluable contribution, he was awarded a commendation by the Chief of the Air Staff.

In 1981, Sqn Ldr MK Rana was posted to a Base Repair Depot, as Project Leader of the computer team. Immediately on arrival, he analysed the complex matrix of overhauling the AN-12, Mi-8, AI-20 and TV-2 systems. He then designed five technical systems and five separate logistics systems in an incredibly short period of two years. When the ICIME 29 computer was received at the BRD, it was installed and put on stream within a week. In spite of power failures, low voltage and airconditioning problems, Sqn Ldr Rana worked long hours to achieve the targets on time and ensure high qualitative outputs.

For his excellence in the field of computerisation, analytical abilities, devotion to duty and achievement of high quality outputs for the technical and logistics systems, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr Manmohan Kumar Rana.