Wg Cdr Onkar Bhattacharya is on the posted strength of one of the Base Repair Depots of Air Force since Oct 88 and has been working as officer incharge production of Main Hanga Line since Jan 89. He took over as Senior Production Engineer (Mi-8) with effect from 26 Jun 90.

In the task year 1989-90, Wg Cdr Bhattacharya was responsible for completing overhaul of Mi-8 helicopters. Despite posting out of a large number of trained technicians and all round shortage of spares, he took up the challenge and infused in his men the required sense of purpose and motivated them to successfully complete the task for the year on time. In the year 1990-91, the officer had to contend with the task of modifying five Mi-8 helicopters to the executive/VIP version in addition to the annual task. By streamlining production process and introducing a large number of innovations, the officer reduced the time for overhaul from 142 days to 119 days. To overcome the almost non-existent supply of hoses from abroad, he arranged for production of hoses at HAL (ND) by arranging for use of end fitting retrieved from old hoses and testing for serviceability on the free length available at the HAL Division.

He also was instrumental in getting the Durite hoses developed through indigenous source. For completing the task, he worked for extended hours almost throughout the year unmindful of personal commitments. For four months of the task year, aeroengines and Main Gear Box were not available for fitment on the helicopter. The officer overcame this hurdle by cannibalising these items from the produced helicopters to the next in line. His ingenuity and exceptional professional ability enabled the Depot to complete the task of overhaul and modification of helicopters in time.

For his unflinching devotion to duty, exceptional professional ability and astute leadership, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wg Cdr Onkar Bhattacharya.