Wing Commander Durba Venkateshwarlu was commissioned in October 1967. In April, 1986, he was posted to Defence Research Development Organisation on a special assignment. The task involved technical appreciation of combat aircraft systems. The task involved technical appreciation of combat aircraft systems and of the technology options to be exercised. A very high level of dedication and determination was needed to ensure that all necessary inputs were generated with laid down time frame to aid decision making, development activity and provision of operational capabilities. This also meant that the officer had to adapt himself in a very short time to the Defence Research Development environment and interact efficiently and smoothly with the scientist.

On successful Completion of the Phase I of the project, namely identification technical requirements preparation of an action plan for Development/integration, Wing Commander Durba Venkateshwaralu was transferred to the Advanced Systems Integration & Evaluation Organization (ASIEO) at Bangalore and charged with the responsibility of executing the project within a short time frame. During this phase concentrated effort towards system development and aircraft integration as well as intensive field evaluation of the system were required.

Wing Commander Venkateswaralu became the crucial contributor to the project, carried out all tasks assigned to him with exemplary technical skills and devotion to duty.

For his outstanding performance in this project, commendable scientific abilities, qualities of leadership and the ability to innovate and achieve results, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Durba Venkateswaralu.