Air Commodore Bidanda Chengapa Nanjapa (13246) F (P) is on the posted strength of HQ Training Command (TC) Air Force from 07 May 99, as Senior Flying Training Officer -II (SFTO II) in the Flying Training Section. From 03 Jan 2001 to 09 Mar 2001 he functioned as the Chief Flying Training Officer (CFTO). Air Cmde Nanjapa has been a Directing Staff in Tactics and Combat Development Establishment, Commanding Officer of a MiG-21 Bis Squadron, and the Chief Operations Officer at Air Force Station, Pathankot. He is an M.Sc. and M.Phil. in Defence Studies, besides being a graduate of Defence Services Staff College and the College of Combat.

In his capacity as SFTO-II, has initiated and directed the revision of flying training syllabi and the change of training schedule at Flying Instructors School, the revision of flying and ground training syllabus of all Flying Training Establishments (FTE) under TC. He was instrumental in making the case for Stage-III training and the Advanced Jet Trainer (AJT) to be placed under HQ TC, and in working out the manner in which, training would be re-organised in TC during phased induction of the AJT.

He was involved in planning and finalising the increased display schedules and work-up of the Suryakiran team into a nine aircraft team with synchronous pair manoeuvres. During the final run-up to Aero India 2001, as officiating CFTO Air Cmde Nanjapa was involved in planning and overseeing the Static and flying display and Flight Safety of all aircraft taking part, planning and monitoring the movement of all participating aircraft, planning and orchestrating all VVP/VIP moves and supervising the large movement of visiting aircraft. The impeccable conduct of the show with complete safety testifies to the efficient supervision by Air Cmde Nanjapa. As Officiating CFTO, he has initiated measures to ensure that there is no compromise in quality from the FTEs. He has motivated the key supervisors in the FTEs to implement the values enshrined in the directions of the Chief of Air Staff and Air Officer Commanding-inChief, in improving the quality of flying training, and is constantly suggesting ways and means of improving flying and ground training as well as the working of HQ TC. He has been able to motivate all officers and staff in the Flying training section towards a higher quality of work, turnout and dedication by using a judicious mix of reward and example. His influence towards ensuring higher efficiency extends beyond the flying training section to other allied and support sections.

For distinguished service of a high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Air Commodore Bidanda Chengapa Nanjapa.

Air Commodore Bidanda Chengapa Nanjapa, VSM (13246) Flying (Pilot) was commissioned on 23 December 1972 in the Flying branch of the IAF. In 32 years of distinguished service, he has held many key appointments, including Directing Staff at Tactics and Combat Development Establishment. He has attended prestigious Security Studies Course in the USA and the 42nd Course at National Defence College. He was awarded VSM in 2002 for his distinguished services. Presently, he is the Air Officer Commanding of a major Fighter Base in Southern Western Sector.

As Air Officer Commanding, Air Commodore Nanjapa has worked ceaselessly to a very focused plan encompassing operations, maintenance and administration. He has been instrumental in achieving induction of the SU-30 MKI which involved evaluation of the state of the art aircraft, liaison with the Russian warranty team and the Soviet Design Bureau to resolve all issues to the benefit of the IAF, as well as operationlisation of theSu30 MKI fleet in all its roles including air to air refueling and multi mission long duration sorties, in record time. All flying units a this Base, which include the SU-30 Ks, the SU-30 MKI of Phase I and II and the Maritime Jaguar have maintained the highest operational status.

Under the inspiring leadership of Air Commodore Nanjapa, the Station developed state of the art maintenance procedures promoting outstanding professionalism, safety and serviceability. In recognition of the tremendous efforts put in by the station, it was awarded the SWAC Trophy for the year 2003. Based on his guidance and drive, the Station has an enviable record of environmental cleanliness, civic discipline and boasts of personnel, who are highly motivated. Innovative efforts have been launched in rain-water harvesting, power/water conservation and road safety.

Air Commodore Bidanda Chengapa Nanjapa, VSM has thus rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.