Air Cmde Ashok Kumar, commissioned in 1960, has been an outstanding Logistics Officer. He has held important appointments in the field as well as on staff during his 32 years of service.

Air Cmde Ashok Kumar as CLMO, WAC, by his foresight and meticulous planning greatly enhanced Operational capability of the front line units which remained on alert most of the time during 1988-90. This, he achieved by timely positioning of needed spares, materials and aviation fuel at the bases, some of which were located in difficult terrain.

During Jan 90, at Srinagar, militants attacked Air Force personnel on way to their duty and killed one officer and few airmen. To provide security, 1000 DSC jawans were withdrawn from various peace stations, kitted fully with winter clothing and positioned at Srinagar at a short notice. This enormous task of kitting was completed by Air Cmde Ashok Kumar in incredibly short period of twelve hours. This achievement speaks of quick reaction capability and positive outlook of the officer.

25 ED was the first Air Force Unit to be allotted a highly advanced computer system which uses a language and environment hitherto not used in the Air Force. With his persistent efforts, as well as by motivating his team of officers, Air Cmde Ashok Kumar managed to fully utilise the computer and also brought in certain modifications to make it compatible with the Air Headquarters computer system.

For his professionalism, dedication, devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Air Cmde Ashok Kumar.

Air Cmde SAB Naidu, VM has been commanding one of the AF Stns since 19 Dec 90. He has led this people with zeal and enthusiasm. He has been an example of true leadership and hard work to all his officers and men.

On taking over the command, he reviewed the complete Hunter aircraft fleet and initiated necessary steps to boost the serviceability. The process of Number Plating of OCU, phasing out of Ajeet aircraft and re-equipping of 2 Sqn with MiG-27 ML aircraft was very smooth mainly due to his exceptional managerial abilities and qualities of leadership.

The Wing has been hosting outstation detachments of various types of fighter aircraft for air-to-air and air-to-ground firing. On an average, about 800 fighter sorties and 45 transport/helicopter sorties were flown from this base every month. These operations were carried out unhampered due to his personal involvement and meticulous planning.

Despite short notice, for presentation of Standards to 20 and 43 Sqns, Air Cmde Naidu prepared detailed plans and organised teams to carry out various duties and tasks related to the ceremony. His planning, personal involvement and organising capabilities of high order paved the way for successful completion of all the activities connected with the ceremony.

Air Cmde SAB Naidu has displayed exemplary leadership, initiative and planning. For his distinguished service of a very high order in the best tradition of Indian Air Force, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Air Cmde SAB Naidu, VM.

Gp Capt KB Kurup has been Chief Engineering Officer of a Wing since Sep 88. He is an outstanding Tech Officer with a brilliant academic and professional record. With his rich and varied experience, he has been able to revamp the Maint Organisation at the base. As a result, the serviceability of MiG-21 and MiG-23 Sqns at the base showed significant improvement.

By setting personal example of dedication and hard work, Gp Capt Kurup could galvanise his subordinates into a motivated and result-oriented team. During his tenure as C Eng O, the Wing bagged WAC Trophy for Best MT in 1989 and Best Wing in Maintenance in 1990 and a Sqn was adjudged Best Fighter Sqn in WAC in 1991. His foresight and planning skills resulted in smooth induction of MiG-29 ac at the base in Apr 90.

Gp Capt Kurup, with his keen initiative, single-handedly designed, developed and installed a maintenance information package which processes data not only for the field managers but also generates periodic returns for higher formations.

For his outstanding achievements and total dedication to Air Force, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Gp Capt KB Kurup.

Gp Capt Vijay Madhav Alurkar was commissioned on 29 Dec 1963. He has held numerous important appointments in the field as well as on staff during 30 years of service.

A very competent Medical Specialist, he was awarded commendation by AOC-in-C Training Command in 1976 for his professional competence and devotion to duty. He has published/presented one hundred and twenty scientific papers in various medical journals and conferences. This bears testimony to his relentless pursuit of academic excellence. His contribution as a member of Medical Team for evaluation of prospective Indian Cosmonauts for project Pawan is noteworthy.

Gp Capt Alurkar served with 36 Inf Div (OP PAWAN) in SRI LANKA where his presence was a great morale booster to the troops. He treated and salvaged many cases of snake bites, Pneumonia and other serious medical conditions. He extended his expertise to Civil Hospital, Trincomalee also. His work was highly appreciated by GOC of 36 Inf Div.

Gp Capt Alurkar has managed Medical and Cardiac Evaluation Centre at AFCME with crisp efficiency. His high professional acumen, diligence and devotion to duty have moulded this centre into a model which is one of the best in Armed Forces. Due to his positive attitude towards aircrew health and conservation of trained manpower, a fair number of aircrew have returned to flying assignments even after undergoing by-pass surgery.

In recognition of his excellent professional acumen and its positive application in the interest of service, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Gp Capt Vijay Madhav Alurkar.

Gp Capt Madan Mohan Joshi has been in Command of E & ITI since 08 Jan 90. A professionally competent officer, he was commended by the CAS for his innovative exploitation of the ECCM receiver through modification. He was again commended by the CAS in 1987 for maintaining and sustaining a very high state of serviceability of technical resources continuously for two years. Earlier in 1977, he was commended by the AOC-in-C Training Command for developing innovative training aids at AFTC.

As CO of E & ITI, Gp Capt MM Joshi has ceaselessly worked and achieved significant improvements in all spheres of training activities. It was due to his perseverance that the Institute was able to set-up a large number of training/teaching aids and facilities like flight safety complex and Computer Centre.

Gp Capt MM Joshi, with sustained efforts, not only improved the quality of training but also brought about an attitudinal change amongst the trainees and instructors. The result was evident in the Institute winning overall Inter-Institute Trophy.

For his professional competence of a very high order, devotion to duty and dedication to service, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Gp Capt MM Joshi.

Gp Capt KB Menon has been the Station Commander of one of the units since 01 Aug 90. During this period the unit has maintained an unblemished record of operational efficiency.

In 1991, the main Ops Room and Radar Head had to undergo major renovation requiring the radar to be shut down for six weeks and the Ops Room shifted to the standby location. By meticulous planning, applying management techniques and close monitoring of the repair work, he was able to ensure that the functioning of the ADDC was not disrupted at any stage and that the unit was once again made fully functional in less than half the time allotted for repair work. Under his dynamic leadership, the unit was awarded many trophies and was also adjudged the Best Signal Unit in Central Air Command.

Gp Capt KB Menon revised and upgraded the training syllabi for fighter controllers to bring them in consonance with the existing operational environment. The syllabi for courses conducted at the Air Defence College were modified under his guidance and supervision and a qualitative improvement in training was achieved. As team leader for the acceptance trials of the Indra-1 radar, by his perseverance and interaction with the production agencies, he ensured that the radar was inducted only after all the desired specifications had been met in full. This was done keeping in mind the long term interests of the Air Force.

In recognition of his professional competence, dynamic leadership and astute managerial skills, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Gp Capt KB Menon.

Gp Capt Belur Ramakrishna Srinivasa Moorthy was commissioned on 23 Dec 64 and has handled a variety of important assignments.

During his tenure at AFCAO from 198689, with sheer determination and foresight, he evolved a strategic plan to bring down the incidence of audit objections and speeded up the settlement of non-effective accounts of service personnel. With his untiring perseverance he brought down the audit objections significantly and reduced the outstanding non-effective cases of Airmen and NCs(E). In addition, he reviewed and got audited 1.3 lacs IRLA and remitted the credit balances.

In July 91, there were bills worth Rs. 60.80 crores for the period 1960-61 to 1991-92 pending for settlement by various agencies like Central Govt. Ministries, State Govts. etc., towards cost of airlift provided by IAF. A drive for collection of dues supported by MOD was initiated. For this, Gp Capt Moorthy identified the outstanding bills, against each of the 106 agencies within four days. He accomplished this task with single mindedness of purpose. He forwarded 4000 bills to the concerned agencies in shortest possible time. With his professional competence, organising ability and liaison with MOD, Dte of Ops (T&M) and audit, he could clear most of the doubts raised by the user agencies. This resulted in settlement of bills of over Rs. 51.08 crores.

For exceptional tenacity of purpose, resultoriented approach and professional acumen, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Gp Capt BRS Moorthy.

Gp Capt Bhojwani, commissioned in IAF on 16 Oct 65, has held various responsible appointments including Chief Instructor at FIS, CO of two front line fighter squadrons, DS at College of Air Warfare and at DSSC and Chief Operations Officer.

The officer had the distinction of commanding two front line fighter squadrons, both operating MiG-21 aircraft in the operational training role in the Eastern Sector. He ensured a high standard of training and discipline and the squadrons displayed a perfect Flight Safety record. It was due to Gp Capt Bhojwani's leadership that, in Jan 87, when a sudden need arose, the squadron shifted smoothly to the operational role and deployed to a non-flying FBSU in the Western Sector and was declared battle-ready in a matter of 24 hours.

In Sep 88, Gp Capt Bhojwani was posted as COO at a premier IAF base. Displaying a rare combination of academic and practical insight, he helped further streamline the operational potential of the station, with particular emphasis on the integration of the two new SAGW systems introduced into service at that time. He carried out a fresh threat assessment for the Extended BADZ which led to the redeployment of MOFs. Subsequent exercises proved the efficacy of the new deployment.

A significant contribution of Gp Capt Bhojwani has been in updating the existing personnel policies, and making them more comprehensive. The complete overhaul of the policy on operational augmentation of manpower in the event of hostilities, introduction of computerised leave returns for all officers of the service, so as to ensure prompt auditing and payment of retirement benefits and carrying out in-depth studies in the area of manpower planning and their training are examples of this officer's initiative and attention to details.

For distinguished service of a very high order and devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Gp Capt S Bhojwani.

Wg Cdr Ashok Bhagwat was posted to the Dte of ASR on 04 Jan 90. He was tasked with a number of major schemes involving fighter aircraft, the most important of which were the oft-publicised AJT Project and the lesser known, but equally important, BTT project.

Wg Cdr Bhagwat, charged with revitalising the stagnating AJT project, undertook his task in a pragmatic fashion. After meticulously researching the background, the officer was able to suggest novel methods on how the project should be handled. These required the officer's professional application, a clear understanding of the fundamental issues and an exhaustive preparation of the subjectmatter. When the RRM decided that a Secretary-level Committee suggest an optimal solution, the DCAS inputs for the Committee were provided by Wg Cdr Bhagwat. The officer once again carried out an indepth appraisal; a sheer testimony to his perseverance. That this major project now stands poised for a decision is primarily on account of the very considerable time and effort devoted to it by Wg Cdr Bhagwat.

The BTT project, on the other hand, was a completely different challenge for this conscientious officer. Unable to proceed on account of the critical economic situation, he suggested an innovative approach. The suggestion was accorded requisite approval and mainly as a result of Wg Cdr Bhagwat's initiative the project is to commence shortly.

The complex task of updating the MiG-21 engaged the attention of Wg Cdr Bhagwat to such an extent that he was singled out to represent the IAF at an important joint meeting in the Soviet Union. He has critically examined & large volume of soviet documents and has made a number of constructive suggestions.

Wg Cdr Bhagwat's keenness to advocate new concepts, his thoroughly professional approach, logical reasoning, analytical mind and imaginative ideas, have infused fresh life into projects which were making little headway.

For the afore-said attributes, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wg Cdr AV Bhagwat.

In addition to the task of overhaul of aerongines, Wg Cdr Yadav was actively involved in calendar life extension of AI-20 'M' Naval aero-engines, TBO life extension of AI-20 'D' aero engines and modification on AN-12 aero-engines for use on AN-32 aircraft. Recommendations given by the Depot based on the work carried out by Wg Cdr Yadav were instrumental in extension of calendar life and TBO of these aero-engines.

For the technical competence, innovativeness, ability to motivate and total devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wg Cdr KS Yadav.

Gp Capt Koshy Zachariah has been in Command of 1 Air Force Dental Centre from 02 Apr 90 to 17 May 92 The last 30 years of Gp Capt Koshy Zachariah's service had been exemplified by his brilliant academic and professional achievements. He was especially selected as a Research Pool Officer under Director General Armed Forces Medical Services, the first Dental Officer to earn this distinction. He not only has a large number of research projects of high standard to his credit but was solely responsible for activating research activities in Army Dental Corps and Dental Branches of Navy and Air Force. As Commanding Officer, Air Force Dental Centre, Jalahalli, he planned and set up a new Dental Centre, which saw some outstanding and innovative ideas in concept of Dentistry and its delivery system and is cited as a model of modern day Dental Health Care. He was singularly instrumental in formulating and executing the training of para-dental staff which culminated in the award of recognition to AF Dental Establishment by Dental Council of India.

He has introduced the concept of multidisciplinary approach in patient management. Due to availability of highly advanced and latest professional expertise, Air Force Dental Centre, Palam has come to be recognised as one of the best in the Services and country as well as attained the distinction of being a referral centre.

Gp Capt Koshy Zachariah within a short period has initiated and successfully completed modernisation of three surgeries with latest state of the art equipment. The Dental laboratory has been up-dated and equipped to deliver bio-compatible metal castings latest in the world today. With his initiative, a computer facility has been added with development of soft ware for patient data, Dental Health Statistics, inventory control, patient appointment and recall system. All these have elevated the unit to a position of pre-eminence among the service Dental Centres in the country.

For his distinguished service of very exceptional order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Gp Capt Koshy Zachariah.

Wg Cdr KH Babu, a post-graduate in Metallurgical Engineering was commissioned in IAF in Jul 71. He has held important appointments connected with the maintenance of aircraft as well as SAGW. For his contribution towards the improvement of maintenance and operational aspects of SAM-3 Technical Flight, he was awarded the Chief of the Air Staff Commendation in Aug 86.

Wg Cdr Babu has been working as Project Manager (Warheads) in Project Prithvi since Jan 89. He coordinated development, fabrication and testing of Pre-fragmented Monolithic Warhead for Prithvi. He contributed significantly in the design and development of Bomblet Submunition Warheads which are in advance stage.

The recovery of engine parts of Prithvi from Sea Bed was vital to carryout post flight review of PO8 Flight trial. This task of recovery was assigned to Wg Cdr Babu. The officer meticulously planned the recovery operation along with a team of divers from Eastern Naval Command. The officer went to SHAR centre and executed the recovery operation. The entire operation was successfully conducted in one week's time.

Contribution of Wg Cdr Babu to the training of Artillery Officers and Jawans in carrying out Prithvi Drills is outstanding. He wrote Combat Drill Manuals in consultation with the designers which helped the Artillery Team to carryout the Missile Preparation Drills smoothly and efficiently.

In recognition of outstanding contributions to the Project, the devotion and dedication shown, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wg Cdr KH Babu.

Wg Cdr G Nayyar is on the posted strength of a Wing wef 23 Oct 89 and is employed as SE (M).

Wg Cdr Nayyar has been instrumental in improving and sustaining the serviceability of MiG-21 Bis fleet at this base. This he could achieve with dedicated effort and technical insight. Further, five AOG aircraft which were on ground for over two years, were also recovered during this period. As the Station Maintenance Safety Officer, he carried out regular checks of maintenance activities and also implemented some innovative ideas. A larger percentage of MT vehicles at this base are of vintage models. The maintenance of these is extremely difficult due to poor supply of spares from FOD and limited resources in the local market. Inspite of these constraints, Wg Cdr G Nayyar, by his perseverance and innovative skill has been able to achieve a high standard of MT serviceability.

The officer is trained abroad on certain type of bombs. These bombs were acquired by the IAF in the early eighties, primarily for use on Ajeet ac. Due to phasing out of Ajeets from the service, these bombs have been rendered surplus to the inventory. A service paper was submitted by Wg Nayyar recommending the use of these bombs on the MiG Variants. On the basis of the service paper submitted by Wg Cdr G Nayyar, trials have successfully been conducted by ASTE and the stores cleared for use on the MiG Variants. This achievement is considered very significant.

For his technical insight, extraordinary performance and valuable contribution to the service, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wg Cdr Nayyar.

Wg Cdr Raj Kamal Shrivastav was commissioned in Army Medical Corps on 27 March 1973 and has been permanently seconded to the Air Force. Wg Cdr Shrivastav has been posted to the Office of the Director General Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS) since 5th August 1989 and has been holding the crucial and sensitive appointment of DADG (P) primarily dealing with the personnel matters of all medical, dental and nursing officers of the three services including handling and processing of court cases and statutory complaints. He has carried out his duties with thoroughness and admirable dedication. While dealing with the statutory complaints or writ petitions, he has displayed maturity, rationality and objectivity of the highest order. It has been largely due to his diligent staff work that most of these complaints or writ petitions have been decided fairly and justly thereby enhancing the prestige and credibility of the Corps. Wg Cdr Shrivastav has through his conscious and meticulous approach been able to formulate the seniority list of the AMC Officers of the three services in the rank of Lt Col. & its equivalent in other two services.

For his distinguished service of an exceptional order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wg Cdr Raj Kamal Shrivastav.

Wg Cdr Madhav Saxena is on the posted strength of HQ Maintenance Command since 04 Mar 91 and has since been working as Staff Officer to AOC-in-C. In addition, he has also been looking after the Indigenisation Cell and computer set-up created in the Secretariat.

In the year 1990-91, supplies from the Soviet Union dropped to negligible levels, causing severe spares shortages at production units. AOC-in-C, Maintenance Command directed that a well planned indigenisation effort be made. He entrusted the responsibility of this critical project to Wg Cdr Saxena. The officer showed vision beyond his years in service. He identified core areas and also monitored and directed the progress towards vendor development, liaison with PSUs and close interaction with training-cum-technological research institutes. The remarkable foresight shown by Wg Cdr Saxena bore fruits within an unexpectedly short time span. Improvements in the availability of ASVs to operational units is a shining example. His efforts are specially praise-worthy as he could finally prove his contention that indigenised items will be more cost effective.

Wg Cdr Saxena devised an information system by which material planning, production progress and capacity utilisation can be monitored on day-to-day basis at step levels and also helped in efficient utilisation of scarce resources.

For his dedication to service, mature outlook and foresight, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wg Cdr Madhav Saxena.

Wg Cdr Joseph Guy Fernandez is held on the posted strength of a school wef 27 Jun 88. He was entrusted with the complex task of setting up the training infrastructure at the school which involved conceptualisation, design and fabrication of training aids and setting up servicing facilities for imparting theoretical and practical training. With his professional competence of a high order and dedication, he accomplished the task. Each of his projects stand out as novel feats of engineering, brilliantly conceived and expertly executed.

With his innovative skill, he was able to make working models of various helicopter systems out of 'Cat E' helicopters which could be used as valuable training aids at this school. He has also designed an excellent Avionics and Instrumentation laboratory which is perhaps the best of its kind in Air Force today. The most significant achievement of this officer is conceptualisation and development of Helicopter System Maintenance Simulator (A computer aided training aid with animation facilities) with the help of a Govt agency at a fraction of the cost of a similar system imported for Mirage aircraft. The establishment of this sophisticated training aid has improved the quality of training without which the trainees could not have seen the functioning of the major helicopter system and clear their basic doubts.

For his distinguished services, professional competence of a very high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wg Cdr Joseph Guy Fernandez.

Wg Cdr Shankar Mani is on the posted strength of Air Force Station, Bidar as Chief Flying Instructor on Kiran MK II ac since 17 Sep 90. As a Senior Flying Supervisor, he very closely monitored the performance of his trainees and QFIs to ensure meaningful and productive training without compromise of training standards or Flight Safety. The deep sense of professional pride instilled in the aviators and his exacting standards have resulted in Air Force Station, Bidar winning the Training Command Flight Safety Trophy and also the IAF Flight Safety Trophy for subsonic group for the year 1990-91.

Wg Cdr Mani, despite his senior supervisory duties, took active interest in flying and has flown over 630 hrs. In addition, he undertook the task of conducting trial firing at the newly selected air to ground range site. He with his enthusiasm, professional acumen and excellent management, ensured timely execution of ab-initio training firing. Further, with his vast experience of over five years as an erstwhile member of the Thunder Bolts, he has rendered invaluable guidance and assistance to the newly formed Aerobatic Team on Kiran MK II ac at Bidar.

For his professional competence of a very high order, excellence in management and inspiring leadership, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wg Cdr Shankar Mani.

Sqn Ldr Dinesh Mohan Mathur was commissioned in the Administrative branch of the IAF on 18 Jan 75.

As Adjutant (AF Station, Suratgarh), through his initiative and drive was instrumental in streamlining the administration of this forward base and also cleared a large number of pending audit objections. His positive approach and dedication to duty largely contributed towards achieving the set goals.

As Adjutant, AF Station, Jamnagar, he brought about conspicuous improvements in the working of HQ Orderly Room and general administration of the Station by his close monitoring and supervision. AF Station, Jamnagar earned trophies for being the best administered Wing in SWAC for two consecutive years. In recognition of his outstanding services at Jamnagar, the officer was awarded Commendation by the CAS on 26 Jan 87.

As Staff Officer to AOP, he has displayed professional skill and inter-personnel relationship of a very high order. He has brought about significant improvements in the functioning of AOP Secretariat by his untiring efforts and zeal.

For his distinguished service of exceptional order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr DM Mathur.

Sqn Ldr Azeez Javeed has been on the strength of TACDE, Air Force wef 06 May 91.

During his tenure at TACDE, Sqn Ldr A Javeed has worked as the officer-in-charge of training of Master Fighter Controller (MFC). He was tasked to formalise the latest intercept techniques and briefing guides for operational control of intercept ac. This involved extensive discussions, deliberations and compilation. He carried out this task in record time with the highest degree of dedication and professional skill and the relevant information has now been ratified by Air Headquarters in the from of IAP 3448.

The task of dissemination of the information to the operators in the field was planned by conducting orientation capsules in the field for junior controllers and at TACDE for senior controllers. He lead a team of MFC staff and visited all major SUs and WAC, CAC and SWAC, IAF between 24 Feb 92 to 11 Mar 92. In addition, two capsules were conducted at TACDE, AF. This task was exceptionally well planned and executed with the highest degree of zeal and enthusiasm. His deep sense of involvement has directly contributed to the overall improvement of the operational potential of the IAF.

For his professionalism of a very high order, devotion to duty and distinguished services of a very high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr Azzez Javeed.

Sqn Ldr Ajay Gautam was on the posted strength of AEB as an examiner before proceeding to Antarctica along with XI Antarctica Expedition.

Sqn Ldr A Gautam, besides looking after the job of Flt Engr, he was actively involved in rendering full assistance to the technical crew in day-to-day flying operations. Since he had represented Air Force in IX Antarctica expedition successfully, his assessment of situations in the air and on the ground were of tremendous help. His knowledge of Nav and allied systems being exceptional, he rendered full cooperation and support to other organisations participating in the expedition. Despite so many additional responsibilities, he flew a total of 99:35 hrs during the expedition.

On 01 Feb 92, the stablised engine of Mi-8 helicopter was not getting switched off as the HP link rod came out of spline shaft. Sqn Ldr Gautam, Flt Engr on board, switched off the engine with the help of LP Cock by timely ON/OFF operations, without allowing the HP Pump to run dry, showing apex of his professional capabilities and saving the fuel pump. The helicopter flew eight more sorties same day after rectification.

For his dedication, professionalism and devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr Ajay Gautam.

Sqn Ldr Jagdish Chandra has been in the Directorate of Eng J&M as AD Eng J&M (T) (Mirage-2000) Avionics since Aug 90.

During Dec 90, one Mirage-2000 had a serious incident of multiple degree failures on its Fly By Wire system. Sqn Ldr Chandra carried out an indepth analysis of the incident and clearly brought out need to carry out certain refinements in the system. The manufacturers agreed to undertake modifications at no cost to IAF. As a result, besides higher reliability and improved flight safety, a sum of appx Rs. 1.0 crore was saved.

Sqn Ldr Chandra in a professional manner explored the feasibility of indigenous overhaul of emergency oxygen components of Mirage aircraft which were hitherto sent abroad for repair/overhaul with long lead time.

He was also actively associated with the task of setting up of indigenous PCB repair facilities for avionics systems. He took this challenging task, which is a totally new area for IAF with utmost zeal. With the active progression of PCR repair facility at HAL (Korwa), seven types of Mirage PCBs can now be repaired indigenously. The indigenisation resulted in huge savings to the Air Force.

For his professionalism, devotion to duty, hard work and innovative approach, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr Jagdish Chandra.

Sqn Ldr Biswas Bihari Misra has been on the posted strength of ASTE, Air Force with effect from May 1989.

During his stay at ASTE, Sqn Ldr Misra has been actively involved in the retrieval and rehabilitation of a very sophisticated piece of computerised equipment called Electro-Optical Tracking and Computing system (EOTAC). This vital equipment is required for trajectory analysis of aircraft and weapons. Restoring the EOTAC to a usable state was a multi-disciplinary task and lack of manufacturer's support had made it more difficult. He undertook the task with perseverance and determination and found indigenous alternatives to rectify the snags.

Sqn Ldr Misra, by his hard work and dedication, far beyond the call of his normal duties, in an intricate technical field far removed from his normal duties of flying, has managed to make the EOTAC equipment serviceable. He has thus, saved several crores of rupees in foreign exchange.

For his devotion to duty, thorough technical knowledge, intelligent application, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr Biswas Bihari Misra.

Sqn Ldr Rajya Vardhan Ghosh has been on the posted strength of Air HQ since 26 Jan 89 and has been functioning as Assistant Director Co-ordination in procurement, provisioning and monitoring of certain critical areas.

With the collapse of erstwhile USSR, many hindrances had been faced by the IAF in obtaining timely supply of spares. One of the problems was outstanding payments against LPO invoices. Russians had been insisting that unless outstanding invoices were cleared, no further supply will be made to IAF. Sqn Ldr Ghosh with his logistics acumen geared up the entire function and identified problem areas, such as delayed Govt. sanctions or lacunae due to new payment/procurement procedures. He had analysed and prepared a very detailed brief for the defence delegation which visited Moscow during Jun 92. With all the difficulties identified and solution made, majority of the disputed payment problems were resolved and supply of spares for MiG23 and MiG-29 resumed.

In yet another case, with his critical analysis, Sqn Ldr Ghosh highlighted a very crucial aspect pertaining to long outstanding recoveries from Russians on account of HAL avionics fitted on AN-32 aircraft. The Russians had agreed in principle, a reduction of Rs. 50 crores due to overcharging.

For his distinguished services of very exceptional order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr Rajya Vardhan Ghosh.

Sqn Ldr Pradeep Kumar Chopra is on the posted strength of MiG Operational Flying Training Unit, Air Force with effect from 16 Apr 90. He is working in Tech Flight of a Wing since the time of his arrival.

During the current year, Sqn Ldr Chopra worked as O i/c Tech Flight supporting MOFTU and a Squadron engaged in MOF training. With his professional expertise and personal example of hard work amounting to almost 10-11 hrs every day, he provided the leadership and motivation to his men to meet the challenge of time-bound task.

During the year, Tech Flight produced 179 ac including an ac which flew after nearly 5 yrs & two others which flew after 2 yrs. Besides the routine task of scheduled inspections, rectifications and training of his personnel, Sqn Ldr Chopra also headed a project group formed at this Wing for development of a Fault Tree Analysis (FTA) for methodical rectification of every conceivable snag. The document of nearly 500 pages containing Fault Tree and Flow Charts of all trades has been printed and has received high praise.

For his sincerity, sustained hard work, initiative and professional competence, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr Pradeep Kumar Chopra.

Sqn Ldr Raj Karan Singh Shera has been on the posted strength of a fighter squadron in the IAF.

Sqn Ldr Shera is one of the few engineers trained in USSR on MiG-29 aircraft. He was posted to a combat Sqn, the first squadron to get converted to MiG-29. With his professional approach, he efficiently handled the complex task of setting up the first MiG-29 Squadron DSS. The proof of his efforts, especially in terms of planning and organising, was evident from the fact that within no time the squadron could commence operations in an organised fashion. He also was instrumental in the pioneering work of making 1st line servicing schedules and ORP procedures.

Due to inadequate spares support from USSR, the unserviceability of avionics spares had been affecting the serviceability of MiG29 Fleet, which had come down to 45%. At that stage, repair of avionics LRUs was thought of. The task was very challenging as no expertise, publications, circuit diagrams etc. were available. Inspite of these handicaps, Sqn Ldr RKS Shera accepted the challenge and started the repair work which was a total pioneering effort at field level. His dedicated effort resulted in recovery of LRUs. He also ventured into indigenisation of certain critical spares, thus saving huge amount of foreign exchange.

For his distinguished services of very exceptional order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr RKS Shera.

On 13 Oct 92, the hauling cable of a cable car carrying passengers to 'Timber Trail'

holiday resort had snapped and ten passengers on board got stranded in the middle of the valley. The Air Force was given the task to rescue the passengers from the cable car which was dangling at a height of 1500 ft above the river bed. A specially selected aircrew including JWO Yadav was tasked to undertake this hazardous mission. The only way, the tourists could be saved was by winching them up from the cable car. For this, the helicopter had to hover precariously close to the set of cables that ran above the cable car. The mission was fraught with danger, a slightest mistake on the part of any team member could end in disaster.

The helicopter was maneuvered to a position above the cable car, with a roof approx 2' x 2' in dimension. Absence of any visual reference, turbulence and strong winds made precision hovering over the car very difficult and hazardous. Hovering is tiring and doing the same repetitively ten times, 20 mts each, involved exceptional courage and professional skills. It was due to sheer professionalism and exceptional courage that all the ten passengers were rescued. This rescue operation was perhaps the first of its kind in the history.

For exceptional courage, professionalism of highest order, excellent team work and exemplary devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to JWO Brahmdev Yadav.

On 13 Oct 92, the hauling cable of a cable car carrying passengers to 'Timber Trail' holiday resort had snapped and ten passengers on board got stranded in the middle of the valley. The Air Force was given the task to rescue the passengers from the cable car which was dangling at a height of 1500 ft above the river bed. A specially selected aircrew including Sgt Santosh Kumar Sahu was tasked to undertake this hazardous mission. The only way, the tourists could be saved was by winching them up from the cable car. For this, the helicopter had to hover precariously close to the set of cables that ran above the cable car. The mission was fraught with danger, a slightest mistake on the part of any team member could end in disaster.

The helicopter was maneuvered to a position above the cable car, with a roof approx 2' x 2' in dimension. Absence of any visual reference, turbulence and strong winds made precision hovering over the car very difficult and hazardous. Hovering is tiring and doing the same repetitively ten times, 20 mts each, involved exceptional courage and professional skills. It was due to sheer professionalism and exceptional courage that all the ten passengers were rescued. The rescue operation was perhaps the first of its kind in the history.

For exceptional courage, professionalism of highest order, excellent team work and exemplary devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sgt SK Sahu.

On 13 Oct 92, the hauling cable of a cable car carrying passengers to 'Timber Trail' holiday resort had snapped and ten passengers on board got stranded in the middle of the valley. The Air Force was given the task to rescue the passengers from the cable car which was dangling at a height of 1500 ft above the river bed.

A specially selected aircrew including Sgt Dalai Gangadhar was tasked to undertake this hazardous mission. The only way, the tourists could be saved was by winching them up from the cable car. For this, the helicopter had to hover precariously close to the set of cables that ran above the cable car. The mission was fraught with danger, a slightest mistake on the part of any team member could end in disaster.

The helicopter was maneuvered to a position above the cable car, with a roof approx 2' x 2' in dimension. Absence of any visual reference, turbulence and strong winds made precision hovering over the car very difficult and hazardous. Hovering is tiring and doing the same repetitively ten times, 20 mts each, involved exceptional courage and professional skills. It was due to sheer professionalism and exceptional courage that all the ten passengers were rescued. The rescue operation was perhaps the first of its kind in the history.

For exceptional courage, professionalism of highest order, excellent team work and exemplary devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sgt Dalai Gangadhar.