Squadron Leader Tharakad Vaidyanathan Hariharan (12470) Admin is on the posted strength of one of the Signals Units since 12th June, 1979. His tenure in this Air Defence Unit has witnessed tremendous achievements both in operational environments and administrative score, mainly due to his planned approach and total involvement. The officer, in his dual capacity as Senior Operational Officer, trained on Guided Weapon Tactics and as Senior Administrative Officer, identified the needy spots and are requiring immediate attention; thereby elevating the status of this unit in the Air Defence Map of the Eastern Air Command.

The officer accepted the challenge of accomplishing the colossal task of enhancing the operational punch of this set up by suitably remodeling the Operations Room and provisioning essential aids for effective close control of fighter aircraft through selective fixing of operational desk on Planned Position Indicator and display boards. This resulted in dissemination of vital information on parameters for aircraft controlling and recovery, apart from saving of manpower for optimum utilisation in the needy areas.

The officer guided and streamlined the mobility exercise for the unit's detachment from July to Sep 81. He personally involved himself as a fighter controller and detachment commander at site by providing effective surveillance and recovery of fighter aircraft, which instilled tremendous confidence among the squadrons, besides making the role of the unit highly purposeful.

Again in October, 1981, the officer as Senior Ops Officer was detailed as the detachment commander. He successfully moved the convoy in record time and had the radar installed at site well in time for taking on the commitment on 20 Oct 81. During this detachment the unit was given the challenging task where supersonic fighter aircraft armed with latest air to air missiles were employed in assessing and evaluating new tactics. The officer with his 19 years experience as a fighter controller exploited the versatility of the radar equipment and meticulously carried out the task by accurately placing the fighters in a most advantageous position to carry out the maneuvers resulting in the successful accomplishment of missions. This has spelt out the potentiality for adding a new dimension in the air combat and weapon delivery in high 'G' maneuvers. Sqn Ldr Hariharan remained at the site throughout the operation and brought the detachment back without any incident on 26 Oct 81.

During the last 2 ½ years of his stay at this unit Sqn Ldr Hariharan as O i/c works has projected major works services for nearly Rs. 20 lakhs, most of which are under execution. Through his good rapport with the Engineers he could motivate the MES and was instrumental in effective planning and execution of prompt maintenance schedule both Bridges and Roads and Electrical and Mechanical, enhancing the get up of the unit significantly. The unit has thus become a model unit in all aspects and won the appreciation of the AOC-in-C, EAC as one of the best units in the Command. The officer was earlier commended by the AOC-in-C EAC in January, 1981.

These apart, Sqn Ldr Hariharan with his ingenuity successfully paved the way for the transfer of 5.5 acres of surplus Army land adjoining the unit to the Air Force for construction of deficient married accommodation. This he was able to achieve because of his good rapport and liaison with the Army keeping in view the requirements of the unit.

In all his endeavours, Sqn Ldr Hariharan has displayed outstanding skill and professional acumen, always keeping service before self in the best traditions of the IAF. He has endeared himself in all the activities of the unit including welfare of personnel, all of whom hold him in high esteem. For his distinguished service, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Squadron Leader Tharakad Vaidyanathan Hariharan.