Wing Commander Devi Prasad Pani (16428) Adm/FC was commissioned on 11 Jun 81 in the Administration branch of the IAF. He is a graduate from Defence Services Staff College and a Category AYE Master Fighter Controller. The officer has held important assignment of Chief Operations Officer of an Air Defence direction Center for two years and Joint Director air Staff Inspection at Air HQ for four years. For his dedication and devotion to the service he has been commended by the Chief of the air Staff in 1996 and 2004. Currently he is posted as commanding Officer of Air Defence College, Air Force since 2004.

On assuming the command, with his innovative idea he submitted a detailed proposal for designing an Air Defence Simulator which would facilitate in providing realistic practical training and result in saving a huge sum of money required for flying effort. The simulator is now ready to be inducted in the IAF. This simulator would not only bring in qualitative improvement in the training standard but would also increase the operational potential of the Air Defence crew. The IAF would, now be saving a huge amount of costly flying hours which was required for training activities. This simulator has given the IAF a quantum jump in its potential. This effort of officer speaks volumes about his vision, dedication and insatiable desire for progress.

Keeping in mind the current and anticipated requirements of Air Defence, he has not only revised all the syllabus but has made the training programme more interactive and participate. These visible changes have been consistently appreciated by all dignitaries. Due to his sound planning, various courses with large intake of officers have been successfully and smoothly conducted at this college. This officer is an asset to the IAF and his virtues are worth emulating.

For his distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Devi Prasad Pani.