Group Captain Anil Kumar Gupta (16942) AE (M) was commissioned in the Engineering Branch of IAF on 19 Aug 82.

He is a post graduate in Aerospace Engineering from IIT, Kharagpur and is an alumnus of Defence Services Staff College and College of Naval Warfare. His past appointments include Engineering Officer of a Kiran and Mirage Squadron, Chief Engineer at a BRD, SE (M) of Air Force Station and Director at Air HQs. He has been commended by CAS for bringing up the serviceability of Kiran aircraft. He has also undergone a course abroad on Mirage fleet.

As Director Engineering 'B', he is responsible for maintenance of Transport aircraft and Helicopters of Western origin. His efforts have resulted in smooth operation alisation of Advanced Light Helicopter and induction of Embraer aircraft into IAF. The tasks involved finalisation of maintenance support contracts, manpower planning, training, setting up of MCF facilities and positioning of requisite number of spares for commencement of operations. The officer, with his initiative and systematic approach ensured completion of the above tasks in given time frames and enabled commencement of aircraft operations, within stipulated timeframes. Through his proactive approach and excellent liaison, he has been successful in converting demands from Embraer operating units, to indents in record time and has thus ensured a high "Serviceability" of this aircraft. He is also successfully managing the maintenance issues involved in induction of Boeing Business Jets, scheduled to be received from Apr 08 onwards.

The officer has also contributed to Flight Safety by procurement of modern Eddy Current Testers for detection of cracks on wheel hubs of Avro aircraft.

For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Anil Kumar Gupta.