Wing Commander (now Gp Capt) Puri during the early years of his service participated extensively in supply dropping missions in NEFA and Nagaland. Thereafter, he did a Night Fighter Course abroad and served in Night Air Defence Role in two operational squadrons. During his tenure as Staff Officer (Air) in the Cabinet Secretariat (Military Wing), he has distinguished himself in rendering excellent staff work for the conduct and deliberation of various committees of Higher Defence Organisation. He has written a number of papers on strategic issues, defence production and personnel problems in the Air Force.

Air Marshal Parduman Krishan Puri was commissioned in the Flying (Navigation) Branch of the Indian Air Force in January 1953.

Air Marshal Puri joined National Defence College as Senior Directing Staff (Air) in January 1984. He has acquired deep knowledge of India's strategic environment, and appreciation of the geo­political factors. His most significant contribution has been in the areas of Science and Technology, Long Range Defence Planning and in the study of Economics of Indian Defence. His conceptual ability and inquisitive mind have enormously helped in enhancing the body of knowledge in these areas and in elevating the level of studies to a very high standard.