Group Captain Srinivasa Rao Sistla (12879) AE (M) was commissioned on 05 Jul 71 in the Engineering Branch of the IAF. For his outstanding services he has been commended by AOC-in-C, CAC, IAF in 1980 and 1988 and by the Chief of Air Staff in 1982 and 1993. He underwent training abroad in LR Pod and SARI-V Equipment (Jaguar armaments equipment) in 1990 and as "Mirage Maintenance Specialist" on GIMI system in 1984-85.

Group Captain SR Sistla was posted as Officer Commanding to Air Armament Inspection Wing, Khamaria on 29 Dec 94. Under his leadership and professional guidance, AAIW, though an inspection agency, has undertaken successfully the development and fabrication of proof equipment, preparation of proof schedules for issue of Air Armament stores like Cartridge PPL and Cartridge PPLT, Cartridge Primary Cluster, Cartridge Secondary Cluster, ERU Ajeet, Cluster Bomb (Sitafal), 23 mm API, Rocket 57 mm practice and manufacture of standard rounds 23 mm Gasha.

The officer's personal involvement in development of stores mentioned above in close liaison with Ordnance Factories and R&D Organisation has resulted in indigenous availability of these stores to the Services enhancing the operational preparedness of IAF, together with the associated saving in financial effects.

For the distinguished services of a high order, the President is pleased to award "Vishisht Seva Medal" to Group Captain Srinivasa Rao Sistla.