Wing Commander Inder Jit Singh Boparai (7691) F (P) has been on operational fighter flying assignments throughout his service career of 21½ years in the Air Force. He has attained 'Fully Operational' status on all the MiG-21 variants and has to his credit over 2000 hrs flying on those types. An Instrument Rating Instructor and Fighter Combat Leader on type, he was a member of MiG-21 formation aerobatic team. It was due to his contribution in no small measure as a Flt Cdr that the Sqn was adjudged the Best Fighter Squadron of the year by Director of Air Staff Inspection for 4 consecutive years. It was also his timely report of K-5 missiles evaluation and flt trials highlighting its limitations that prevented an ineffective weapon being contracted for thereby saving valuable foreign exchange.

With his vast experience and background, ha was selected to Command the first Rakshak Squadron. He was assigned the dual task of raising a new fighter squadron and simultaneously inducting a new fighter aircraft into the Air Force. With tremendous enthusiasm and personal involvement, with extremely limited trained manpower, he not only overcame the initial teething troubles but took on additional task of taking over the group sets for the Base Repair Depot. It was his meticulous planning and foresight in utilising the aircraft that flying effort was built up in a phased manner with proper stagger. The Squadron has flown a total of over 4500 hrs in less than 3 years and considering the heavy constraints of lack of spares and high Aircraft On Ground state - this is a vary creditable achievement indeed.

In May 04, Wg Cdr IJS Boparai became the first pilot to land Rakshak aircraft at Leh, the highest operational airfield in the world, and again it was his personal involvement and guidance which helped in overcoming starting problems at this height. His suggestions have now been incorporated as a standard for all MiG-21s.

With over 500 hrs on type to his credit, in every phase of flying, Wg Cdr Boparai undertook the initial sorties himself, and utilising the aircraft potential to the full has today established the Rakshak as an effective weapon system capable of countering even F-16 type of threat with suitable tactics. Besides the progress of the Squadron, he has put up suggestions which have effectively enhanced operational effectiveness.

For his very high degree of professional competence and dedicated hard work which has resulted in the Rakshak fleet becoming a viable operational weapon system, for his total devotion to duty and his sustained contribution towards betterment of the service, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to Wing Commander Inderjit Singh Boparai.