Wg Cdr Vijay Shriniwas Karnik was commissioned on 24 Jun 72. He has commanded a MiG-29 Squadron during 1991-93.

His single minded devotion and dedication to operations resulted in evolution of many new tactics including the first Anti Beyond Visual Range Missile tactics which was accepted by Tactics and Air Combat Development Establishment for Trials.

Wg Cdr Karnik, a professionally competent officer, was specially selected represent the IAF at Belgium in the prestigious Fighter Weapons Instructors Training Symposium in which all the NATO countries participated.

A direct indicator of his dedication and devotion to duty is the book written by him called "Know your MiG-29". The effort was commended by the CAS and has been approved and published for the operations of MiG-29 aircraft. The book is of great value for the pilots as well as for the engineers of MiG-29.

For exceptional devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vayu Sena Medal to Wg Cdr Ajay Shriniwas Karnik.

Group Captain Ajay Shriniwas Karnik, VM (13140) F (P) has been the Base Commander of a FBSU, Air Force since May 97. Commissioned in the IAF as a fighter Pilot on 24 Jun 72, Gp Capt AS Karnik has had a distinguished record as a Squadron pilot. He is a graduate from Defence Services Staff College. Prior to taking over his present assignment, he commanded a fighter squadron and has done a tenure as Chief Operations Officer at a major base.

As a station commander of this important forward base he has brought about an all round improvement in the operational, maintenance and administrative set up. Notwithstanding the remote location of the unit he successfully inspired his men and officers to perform optimally and achieved the desired results. Activities like setting up of ASBADC, replacement of AC plant in ATC, clearance of vegetation around runway shoulders, improvement in drainage system to prevent flooding of runway were achieved with innovative use of unit resources within the PDCs. Apart form contributing extensively during FPDs, the unit took an active part in Ex-Shivshakti and EX-Gujraj. Successful UAV trial and day-night SHB operations in conjunction with Army were carried out from this base during the period of exercise. A big thrust was given to improve the technical practices and working environment within the base. The technical flight at Uterlai was successfully set up with transfer of manpower and equipment from Jodhpur. Timely completion of various labs contributed in a large measure to the expeditious setting up of tech flight. Works services were given a fill up resulting in more than 20 original works being executed within the PDC and savings ranging from a few thousands to Rs. 10 lakhs in some cases.

Displaying leadership qualities of high level, Gp Capt AS Karnik led by setting a personal example in the base. He has successfully infused a sense of pride and camaraderie amongst the personnel resulting in their battling against all odds to achieve success.

Group Captain Ajay Shriniwas Karnik, VM has, thus, rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.