Group Captain Mahesh Kumar Malik (15743) Adm/FC was commissioned in the Administrative Branch on 15 Jun 79. He has held diverse appointments that include command of AD Radar Sqn and Air Defence College, two tenures as DS at TACDE, DASI inspector at Air Headquarters and Chief Administrative Officer AF Stn Halwara. A fighter controller of high calibre, the officer achieved the highest category for professional competence, Category A, as a young Flt Lt. With him as the CO, a frontline Sqn was declared the best EW/GCI unit in SWAC in 1986. An expert in computer skills, he developed a software for Flight Safety codenamed 'MIKAS' in 1998 which was distributed to and put in use at Air HQ and all Command HQ for analysis of data on Flying Accidents/Incidents in IAF. As CO of Air Defence College, he revamped the training methodology and computerized it to the extent that even the tests were taken on line. As Chief Administrative Officer at Halwara, he initiated and executed a large number of work services for improvement in quality of life and environmental development. For his dedicated service throughout his service career he has been commended both by CAS and AOC-in-C. He has undergone both Air Staff Course and Long Defence Management Course.

Gp Capt Malik is posted to HQ Eastern Air Command (EAC) as Chief Personnel Staff Officer wef 27 Jun 05. From day one he has infused a new sense of enthusiasm and work culture and channelised energy into solving problems of personnel through innovative and a pro-active approach. With his vast experience and personal involvement, he was successful in ensuring that the security of all bases in insurgency affected areas of North East state is maintained at the highest state of alertness. He closely monitored and exercised a strict control over the expenditure on temporary moves in the EAC. It was largely due to his efforts that the expenditure on temporary moves was brought down from over 40 lakh per month to nearly 31 lakh per month, thereby resulting in a savings of Rs 43 lakh during the year 2006-07. He organized centralised training for civilian cooks posted to all units in EAC at IHMCTAN, Shillong under his direct supervision. The post training feedback from field indicated a marked improvement in the catering standards at all stations. For his distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Mahesh Kumar Malik.