Group Captain Amrit Dev Datt has been in command of a Base Repair Depot since January, 1971. During the recent conflict with Pakistan, apart from its normal programme of work, the depot was allotted a number of tasks designed to meet and augment the operational readiness of the Squadrons. The tasks were urgent and had to be completed within a fixed schedule. Group Captain Amrit Dev Datt by personal supervision and control ensured that the schedule was adhered to.

Throughout the operation, Group Captain Amrit Dev Datt rendered distinguished Service of an exceptional order.

Group Captain Sivaramannair Kesavan Nair was commissioned in the Aeronautical Engineering (Mechanical) Branch of the Indian Air Force in January, 1950. He has successfully held a variety of important technical appointments. Since August, 1971, he has been in command of a Base Repair Depot. The Depot under the inspiring leadership of Sivaramannair Kesavan Nair considerably increased its production rate of a particular type of aircraft engine. Several other urgent tasks allotted to this Depot were successfully completed. This Depot also provided engineering support for the repair of specialist equipment urgently required for operational aircraft.

Throughout, Group Captain Sivaramannair Kesavan Nair has rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Group Captain Kanwar Iqbal Singh Chhabra was commissioned in the Flying Branch (Navigator) of the Indian Air Force in April, 1950. He has held several key appointments with distinction. At present, he is the Commander of a Tactical Air Centre. During the conflict with Pakistan in December, 1971, when the enemy launched a massive attack in the Chhamb­Jaurian Sector, he, working in close cooperation with the Army, planned and executed the maximum possible number of sorties out of the resources available with him. The air support to the Army not only blunted enemy attacks but contributed considerably to the destruction of his ground forces and the virtual elimination of enemy air opposition in the theatre. When the enemy tried to misguide our missions by R/T, he devised a simple authentication system which thwarted the enemy's attempts.

Throughout, Captain Kanwar Iqbal Singh Chhabra rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Group Captain Prem Pal Singh was commissioned in the Flying Branch of the Air Force on 15th April, 1950. Initially, he was a transport pilot and served in a number of transport and communication units. Later, he converted on to jet bomber aircraft, and has since served in all the Canberra bomber units of the Air Force, and commanded one of them.

Group Captain Prem Pal Singh is at present the Staff Officer incharge of operations at a Command Headquarters. He planned the bomber operations during the recent conflict with Pakistan. Taking into account the enemy anti-aircraft dispositions, fighter defences, navigational problems and other relevant factors, he drew up elaborate and detailed plans. He visited all the bomber bases and personally briefed the Squadron Commanders on the tasks allotted to their units. His efforts were to a large extent responsible for the success of our bomber aircraft during the operations. He has, thus rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Group Captain Mohan Badami was commissioned in the Flying Branch (Navigator) of the Indian Air Force on 1st June, 1950. He has served in several transport and maritime squadrons, and on the staff of a Command Headquarters. He was also the Staff Officer to the Chief of the Air Staff. He took over as Joint Director (Intelligence) at Air Headquarters in December, 1970. He successfully completed all the tasks allotted to him. He ensured that all security policy directives were disseminated to all units well in time. The Security Inspection team visits to most of the units were completed during the emergency period. This helped in inculcating a high degree of security consciousness amongst the personnel of the Units.

Throughout, Group Captain Mohan Badami has rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Wing Commander Vishwanathan Krishnamurthy was commissioned in the Flying Branch of the Indian Air Force in January, 1951. He has served in a number of fighter and fight bomber squadrons of the IAF. He has held command of a squadron, from 1962 to 1969. He is a qualified flying instructor holding the highest category. During the recent conflict with Pakistan, Wing Commander Krishnamurthy was in command of an airfield. He transformed this airfield into a major Air Force base inspite of numerous administrative and logistic problems. The enemy tried persistently to cripple the base, but due to effective air defence arrangements, the airfield remained operational throughout. Aircraft operating from this base shot down a number of enemy aircraft, including three F­104s. Numerous missions were also launched in close support of the Army, knocking out many enemy tanks, strong points, guns and warlike equipment. Also enemy lines of communication in the sector were very badly disrupted.

Throughout, Wing Commander Vishwanathan Krishnamurthy has rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Wing Commander Inder Mohan Chopra was commissioned in Flying Branch of the Indian Air Force in June, 1951. After serving in several squadrons he was given training as a Flying Instructor, and served in that capacity at a flying training unit. He has also commanded an operational Squadron. After receiving training as a Test Pilot he served with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited as a Test Pilot from January, 1961 to June, 1966 and again from July, 1970 to July, 1971. He was also on deputation to Egyptian General Aero Organisation, United Arab Republic from June, 1966 to September, 1969.

During his tenure with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited he was actively engaged in the development and flight testing of HF­24 and Kiran aircraft in different phases of production. His personal contribution towards the development of these aircraft is of an outstanding nature. He undertook 452 flights comprising 352 hours of prototype testing of these aircraft. He has volunteered and successfully completed most difficult and challenging assignments and set an inspiring example to aviators engaged on test flights.

Wing Commander Inder Mohan Chopra has thus rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Prior to his present appointment as Staff Officer to the Chief of the Air Staff, Wing Commander Navin Chandra Bharma had served on the personal staff of the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Air Command, and the Vice Chief of the Air Staff. The operational appreciations and plans of the Air Force have passed through his hands. In dealing with them, he has displayed a high degree of intelligence. His execution of important tasks has contributed greatly to effective planning and operational control of the Air Force. He has worked long hours under considerable pressure without any regard for his personal comforts.

Throughout, Wing Commander Navin Chandra Bharma has rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order. .

Wing Commander Moreshwar Waman Tilak was commissioned in the Flying Branch of the Indian Air Force in August, 1952. After serving with a number of Squadrons, he was given training as a Flying Instructor and Test Pilot. He has been serving as a Test Pilot on deputation with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited since October, 1962.

He has been actively associated with the development and flight testing of Marut and Kiran aircraft in different phases of production at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. His personal contribution towards development of these aircraft is of an outstanding nature. Out of a total of 1970 hours of test flying done by him, 857 flights comprising 538 hours was on prototype testing. Often working beyond the call of duty, he has displayed exemplary courage and outstanding professional skill.

Wing Commander Moreshwar Waman Tilak has thus rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Wing Commander Shiv Prakash Sabharwal was commissioned in the flying Branch of the Air Force in January, 1953. He has served in several transport squadrons of the Air Force, and is a qualified flying instructor. He has been the Commander of a Radar Unit and is at present commanding a transport squadron. He has consistently maintained a very high standard of operational efficiency in the personnel of his squadron, and has set a very high example by his own professional knowledge. During the recent conflict with Pakistan, he was the commander of a force of Packet aircraft. He quickly moulded this force into an effective entity. He personally led two missions over Bangladesh. In these two operations, he went without rest for 34 hours.

Throughout, Wing Commander Shiv Prakash Sabharwal has rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Wing Commander Mohinder Singh Bawa was commissioned in the Flying Branch of the Air Force in April, 1953. He has served in a number of fighter and fighter bomber squadrons and has commanded one of them. He is a qualified flying instructor and served as such in the Air Force Flying College. At present, he is the Chief Instructor of Armament Training Wing. During the recent conflict with Pakistan, Wing Commander Mohinder Singh Bawa was in command of an airfield. He transformed the airfield into a major base, capable of sustaining intensive operations by a number of aircraft. The enemy made persistent attempts to neutralise this base, but due to effective air defence arrangements these attempts failed, and the base remained operational throughout. Aircraft operating from this base mounted large scale operations in close support of the Army, knocking many enemy tanks and vehicles. Several attacks were launched against enemy airfields in the sector, leading to the destruction of a number of aircraft and curtailment of enemy air activity; the enemy's road and rail communications in the area were also severely disrupted. All this was achieved largely because of the support given by the base under inspiring leadership of Wing Commander Mohinder Singh Bawa, He has thus rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Wing Commander Narayanaswamy Raghunath was commissioned in the Technical Engineering Branch of the Indian Air Force in December, 1952. After holding a wide variety of appointments at units, a Repair Dept and Headquarters of an operational Command, he has been on deputation with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited since July, 1969.

At Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, he has been appointed in turn, as Production Engineer (Scheduling), Senior Tech Engineer and head of Production Development Group. With his high professional skill, creative mind and sound organizing ability he has accomplished the tasks assigned to him. He has made a significant contribution towards production of HF­24 aircraft by developing new techniques and procedures for tooling. He has also been responsible for organizing training courses for officer of Aircraft Factory and has been serving as faculty member on the Hindustan Aeronautical Limited Staff College.

Wing Commander Narayanaswamy Raghunath has rendered distinguished service of exceptional order.

Wing Commander Ranjit Dhawan (4572) was commissioned as a Pilot in the Flying Branch of the Indian Air Force in October, 1953. During his career, he has held a variety of appointments and is at present in command of an operational Squadron. He was awarded the Vayu Sena Medal for his exemplary action in the Indo-Pakistan conflict of the 1965. During the December, 1971 war, Squadron Leader Dhawan was in command of a fighterbomber squadron. He carried out 12 operational missions deep inside enemy territory including strikes on Hyderabad and Nawabshah airfields. He was also responsible for the destruction of an enemy troop train at Mirpurkhas Railway Station and non-directional beacon at Chor. All these achievements resulted in a major setback to the enemy. He always displayed high, organising ability and skill in ensuring that aircraft serviceability remained high throughout operations. In the field of administration, Wing Commander Dhawan has displayed equal imagination and foresight. Under his command, the morale of his officers and men was always high, Throughout, Wing Commander Ranjit Dhawan has rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Wing Commander Jagat Kishore Mohlah (4576) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in October, 1953. He joined Hindustan Aeronautics Limited as a Test Pilot on deputation in November, 1964. During his tenure with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, he was actively engaged in the development and testing of prototype and production aircraft. His personal contribution towards development of HJT­16 - Kiran aircraft is of an outstanding nature. He undertook 349 flights comprising of 260 hours of prototype testing on this aircraft. He volunteered, and successfully completed, most difficult and challenging assignments through his stay with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.

In the discharge of his onerous duties, he set an example which was in keeping with the highest traditions expected of individual engaged in such work and worthy of emulation by aviators in any environments. Wing Commander Mohlah made the supreme sacrifice when testing a Marut (HF24) aircraft on 27th July, 1971. His distinguished services to the cause of Indian aviation and Indian Air Force for which he lived and died, are of the most exceptional order.

Wing Commander Vishwanath Balakrishna Swardekar was commissioned in Flying Branch of the Indian Air Force on 14th October, 1953. He has served with serval fighter and fighter bomber squadrons of the Air Force. He is a qualified flying instructor and has rendered service in several flying tanning units. Wing Commander Swardekar is presently in command of supersonic fighter squadron. During the Indo-Pak conflict of December, 1971, he had wide responsibilities as his squadron was operating in detachments at three separate locations. He ensured that all the task, including fighter escorts and sweep missions were undertaken successfully. The aircraft of his squadron shot down no fewer than three enemy F-104 Starfighters and one MiG­19. He, himself, though heavily burdened with supervision of his three detachments, was always at the forefront of operational missions undertaken by his aircraft. On 16th December, 1971, he was on a mission to escort other aircraft which was to strike at the enemy. One of the aircraft being escorted was hit by enemy ground fire, and the canopy was shattered, the pilot being severely injured. Wing Commander Swardekar joined the crippled aircraft and escorted it for a distance of 70 nautical miles, much of it over enemy territory, back to its base, keeping up the morale of the injured pilot and guiding him back home. He thus saved the pilot and a valuable aircraft.

Throughout, Wing Commander Vishwanath Balakrishna Swardekar has thus rendered distinguished service of a high order.

Wing Commander Upkar Singh was commissioned in the Flying Branch of the Air Force on 16th January, 1954. He has served in several fighter and fighter bomber squadrons. He is a qualified flying instructor and has seen service in this capacity in two flying training units, and on the training staff at Air Headquarters. At present, Wing Commander Upkar Singh is the Commanding Officer of a supersonic fighter squadron. Under his guidance the Squadron was brought to a high state of operational preparedness. During the recent operations against Pakistan, the Squadron under the inspiring leadership, of Wing Commander Upkar Singh flew 376 operational missions in a 10 day period, on fighter escort duties, sweeps and air patrols, without loss, of any aircraft. He personally led a number of missions.

Throughout the operations, Wing Commander Upkar Singh rendered distinguish service of an exceptional order.

Wing Commander Krishan Kumar Badhwar was commissioned in the Flying Branch of the Indian Air Force in January, 1954. Initially, he served in fighter and fighter bomber squadrons, and then, after successfully completing a course at the Flying Instructors School, he served as a flying instructor at the erstwhile Air Force Flying College. In 1964, he converted on to jet bombers, and thereafter served in a Canberra bomber squadron. He also served in a ground appointment at a major bomber base. At present, he is the Commander of a Canberra bomber squadron. He reorganised the work of the ground staff so that they could give effective support to the flying crew. Simultaneously, he implemented a rigorous training schedule for his aircrew, for bringing them to the highest peak of efficiency. During the recent operations against Pakistan the bombers of his squadron carried out devastating raids against the enemy's war potential. He took part in every one of the operational missions entrusted to his squadron.

Throughout, Wing Commander Krishan Kumar Badhwar rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Wing Commander Donald Melvyn Conquest was commissioned in the Flying of the India Air Force in January 1954. He has served in fighter bomber squadrons, also been a member of the staff at the National Defence Academy, and has served in a radar unit. After completing a course at the Armament Training Wing, he was retained at the Wing as a member of the instructional flying staff. At present, he is the Commander and Instructor at an operational training unit. He implemented a rigorous training for his aircrew, to bring them to the highest peak of efficiency. During the recent conflict against Pakistan, the Unit under the inspiring leadership of Wing Commander Melvyn Conquest, acquitted itself creditably.

In his career, Wing Commander Donald Melvyn Conquest has fulfilled all assigned to him. He has thus rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Wing Commander Kailash Chandra Khanna was commissioned in the Flying Branch of the Indian Air Force on 17th July 1954. He has served in a number of fighter and fighter bomber squadrons of the Air Force and is a qualified pilot attack instructor. He has also served in a Command Headquarters as a Command Flight Safety Officer. Since November, 1970, Wing Commander Kailash Chandra Khanna has been serving in a fighter bomber squadron, and has been the Commander of the Squadron for most of the period. He took a series of measures and brought the squadron to a high state of operational preparedness. The Squadron under the inspiring leadership of Wing Commander Kailash Chandra Khanna, played a major part in providing air support to the Army in the Chhamb Sector. His personal example and detailed briefing of his pilots on the tactics they were to adopt were largely responsible for their successes. He led 13 offensive missions himself, resulting in the destruction of a number of tanks, gun positions, enemy strong points and warlike stores.

Throughout, Wing Commander Kailash Chandra Khanna has rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Wing Commander Kasi Gopala Radhakrishnan was commissioned in April, 1953 in the erstwhile Technical Armament Branch of the Indian Air Force. After serving in a number of training units, operational wings and squadrons, he was taken on the staff of an Operational Command, and later at Air Headquarters. During recent Operation against Pakistan, Wing Commander Kasi Gopala Radhakrishnan was the Chief Technical Officer of an Air Force Base. It was because of his personal supervision, hard work and unremitting effort, as well as his professional skill, that the aircraft of the Base were maintained in a high state of operational readiness. During the hostilities, a number of damaged aircraft were repaired in record time, frequently overnight, so that they were available for operations the next day.

Throughout, Wing Commander Kasi Gopala Radhakrishnan has rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Wing Commander Keshavamurthy Ramachandra Rao (3793) was commissioned in the Technical Signals Branch of the Indian Air Force of the Indian Air Force in January, 1950. He has attended a number of specialist and staff course in Indian and abroad, in which his performance has been of the highest order. He was awarded the Woods of Colchester Prize in 1962 for standing first in his course at the College of Aeronautics, Cranfield (UK) thus bringing credit to the Air Force and the nation.

After holding a wide variety of appointments at units, Repair Depots and Air Headquarters, Wing Commander Rao has been on deputation to the Indian Space Research Organisation since May 1965. Till recently, he was Director of the Experimental Satellite Communication Earth Station, Ahmedabad. In addition to his responsibilities as Director ESCES, he was entrusted with the responsibility of setting up the Arvi Satellite Communication Earth Station for the Department of Communication. Wing Commander Ra has a flair for tackling projects involving new technology and the challenging task of setting up of the Arvi Station provided him an opportunity to utilize his technical knowledge, professional skill, creative mind and sound and thorough organizing ability. In setting up the Arvi Station, Wing Commander Rao accomplished a very important task. The most important single unit made for the first time in India, namely a large 97 ft. steerable antenna involving sophisticated engineering, has been completed in record time and has met and, in some particulars, exceeded all technical performance requirements. His pioneering work has put Indian on the space communication map.

Wing Commander Keshavamurthy Ramachandra Rao has rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

During the Indo-Pakistan conflict in December, 1971, Group Captain Robert Arnold Weir in command of an operational Squadron in the Western Sector. He carried out a large number of operational missions in Poonch area flying at heights of 30-50 feet above ground level fully knowing that aircraft was vulnerable to even small arms fire and also that escape by parachute or force landing in the event of damage to aircraft was not possible. Between the 8th and 11th December, 1971, he engaged and destroyed a large number of enemy gun positions in the face of heavy ground opposition. In addition he carried out numerous other missions in support of our ground forces inflicting heavy damage on enemy positions and undertook recce missions for the location of infiltrators in the area.

Throughout the operations, Group Captain Robert Arnold Weir displayed professional skill and leadership of a high order.

During the recent hostilities with Pakistan, Wing Commander Arun Kant Mukherjee was commanding a Tactical Flying Unit. He undertook a number of operational sorties and attacked heavily defended enemy air bases. Due to his sound planning, all tasks allotted to his unit were accomplished in an exemplary manner. The unit carried out deep penetration sorties at night with single engine aircraft in the face of heavy enemy defences. The unit did valuable work in keeping the enemy force harassed at night.

Throughout the operations, Wing Commander Arun Kant Mukherjee displayed gallantry, leadership and flying skill of a high order.

During hostilities with Pakistan in December, 1971, Wing Commander Keshev Chandra Aggarwal was in command of an operational Fighter Squadron. He led a number of operational missions against enemy armour and troops concentrations in support of our ground forces. Though faced with heavy ground fire and air opposition, he pressed home his attacks and destroyed numerous vehicles and a petrol dump. On the 4th December, 1971, and again on 8th December, 1971, he undertook reconnaissance sorties in Chor-Doronara areas and successfully located two trains carrying ammunition and destroyed them. On the 6th December, 1971, he led a formation and destroyed a railway engine and fifteen wagons containing ammunition in Chor-DoronaraHasiar area. Again on the 9th December, 1971, he destroyed fifteen wagons and damaged approximately forty wagons at Mir-Purkhas, which deprived the enemy of vital supplies.

Throughout the operations, Wing Commander Keshev Chandra Aggarwal displayed gallantry, leadership and flying skill of a high order.

During the conflict with Pakistan in December, 1971, Wing Commander Murari Lal Trehon was in command of a FighterBomber Squadron in the Western Sector. He flew several operational missions deep into the enemy territory and destroyed a number of enemy tanks, bunkers and gun positions in the face of heavy ground fire. His squadron also carried out a large number of fighter recce sorties deep into enemy territory which were of great value in planning and execution the subsequent operations successfully.

Throughout the operations, Wing Commander Murari Lal Trehon displayed gallantry, leadership and flying skill of a high order.

During the India-Pakistan conflict in December 1971, Wing Commander Bhupendra Kumar Bishnoi was in command of an operational Fighter Squadron in the Eastern Sector. He led the first two Bombing mission over Tezgaon airfield and undeterred by heavy ground fire, he hit Tazgaon runway and also destroyed a large transport aircraft on the ground. During one of these Bombing missions, his aircraft was hit by a heavy shell and sustained severe damage. Notwithstanding this, he pressed home the attack. On the 14th December, 1971, he raided military targets in Dacca inspite of intense ground fire. His attacks on the Government House at Dacca and other targets were carried out with accuracy. During the missions in support of Indian army, he led 10 sorties against heavily defended enemy positions in the Comilla Sector and destroyed enemy Bunkers and strongholds.

Throughout the operations, Wing Commander Bhupendra Kumar Bishnoi displayed gallantry, professional skill and leadership of a high order.

During the conflict with Pakistan in December, 1971, Wing Commander Krishan Kumar Badhwar was in command of a Bomber Squadron in the Western Sector. During the period 3rd December 1971 to 14th December 1971, he under-took various missions against air bases and port installations which were heavily defended by Missile carrying fighters and anti-aircraft guns. Disregarding personal safety and with great courage and skill, he attacked air bases at Masoor, Drig Road and Port Installations at Karachi. He was instrumental in depleting the enemy’s oil reserves and crippling his port facilities at Karachi.

Throughout the operation, Wing Commander Krishan Kumar Badhwar displayed gallantry, leadership, and professional skill of a high order.

During the operations against Pakistan in December, 1971, Wing Commander Donald Melvyn Conquest was commanding the Operational Training Unit. On the 4th December, 1971, he led a formation which attacked and set fire to Karachi Port bulk oil installation. On the 5th December, 1971, he carried out a daring attack on Mauripur airfield and destroyed at least six enemy aircraft on ground and caused extensive damage to others. Again on the 6th December, 1971, he attacked and destroyed the Warehouses at Drigh Road airfield. In addition he carried out a number of close air support and interdiction missions. He was instrumental in neuteralising heavy enemy armoured thrust in the Longewala section and in setting on fire numerous goods trains. On one occasion he was wounded by enemy fire and war profusely bleeding. Despite excruciating pain and loss of blood he successfully brought his formation back to base.

Throughout, Wing Commander Donald Melvyn Conquest displayed gallantry, leadership and professional skill of a high order.

During the hostilities with Pakistan in December, 1971, Squadron Leader Arya Bhushan Lamba was the Flight Commander of a Fighter-Bomber Squadron. On the 4th December, 1971, he led sorties on Risalwala and Chander airfields blasting the dispersals. On the 5th December, 1971, he destroyed a tank and a tank transporter. On the 6th December, 1971, he destroyed enemy positions near Narowal. On the 7th December, 1971, he struck twice; once on a troop concentration and later on guns and tank concentration. On the 9th December, 1971, he blew up a bridge over Ichogil canal with a direct hit. By maintaining close liaison with technical staff, he ensured a high rate of serviceability of aircraft in the Squadron.

Throughout the operations, Squadron Leader Arya Bhushan Lamba displayed gallantry, professional skill and devotion to duty of a high order.

During the hostilities with Pakistan in December, 1971, Wing Commander Ravindar Nath Dogra (4725) was in command of a Fighter-Bomber Squadron. He flew a number of missions deep into enemy territory which were heavily defended and often came back with a number of bullet holes in this aircraft. His fearlessness and personal example inspired confidence and courage amongst the pilots of his Squadron who volunteered for the hazardous missions and completed them with success.

Throughout the operations, Wing Commander Ravindar Nath Dogra displayed gallantry, leadership and flying skill of a high order.

During the hostilities with Pakistan in December, 1971, Squadron Leader Ramesh Chander Kohli was attached to an operational Bomber Squadron. He successfully flew a number of missions deep into enemy territory which involved penetration into enemy radar coverage, against well defended targets. He was a source of inspiration to his colleagues and junior pilots of the Unit.

Throughout the operations, Squadron Leader Ramesh Chander Kohli displayed gallantry, professional skill and devotion to duty of a high order.

At the outbreak of hostilities with Pakistan in December, 1971, Squadron Leader Jiwa Singh was on the strength of a front line Fighter Squadron. During the operations Squadron Leader Jiwa Singh led a formation to search and strike enemy tanks and troops which were engaging our ground forces. He successfully located the hidden tank positions and pressed home his attack even though his section was encircled on airfield by 4 enemy aircraft. He engaged an enemy F-104 in aerial combat in order to give his number two a chance to get away safely. In the combat his aircraft was shot at low level as a result which he was killed.

Throughout, Squadron Leader Jiwa Singh displayed gallantry and devotion to duty.

During the operations against Pakistan in December, 1971, Squadron Leader Farokh Jehangir Mehta as a senior pilot in one of the Fighter-Bomber Squadron, flew twentytwo operational missions consisting of close air support in Kutch and Barmer sector and successful strikes at Mirpur and Badin. He flew five counter air missions against Badin, Talahar and Masroor airfield. On the 13th December 1971, while he was proceeding on a strike mission to Talahar airfield he was engaged by a Sabre. In the ensuing air battle, he shot down the enemy aircraft. On another occasion, while he was on a close air support mission in Naya Chor area he was attacked by a Sabre. He maneuvered his aircraft with great skill and secured a hit at the enemy aircraft which was seen crashing.

Throughout, Squadron Leader Farokh Jehangir Mehta displayed gallantry, professional skill and devotion to duty of a high order.

During the operations against Pakistan in December, 1971, Squadron Leader Gursaran Singh Ahluwalia was the Senior Flight Commander of a Bomber Squadron. He was largely responsible for the initial planning, tactics, weapon delivery system and overall supervision in the conduct of bomber operations of the unit. His planning and execution, which included his leading seven missions into enemy territory with courage and successfully completing them in spite of his aircraft being damaged on three missions due to heavy flak acted as a source of inspiration to the air and ground crew.

Throughout, Squadron Leader Gursaran Singh Ahluwalia displayed gallantry, professional skill and devotion to duty of a high order.

During the operations against Pakistan in December, 1971, as a Flight Commander of a Fighter Bomber Squadron, Squadron Leader Allan David Alley flew 15 operational missions in close support of our ground force, interdiction and offensive strike. Between 4th December and 6th December he led strike missions in the Eastern Sector in Saidpur area and destroyed three steamers and four trains. He also extensively damaged three marshalling yards and destroyed four bridges and four enemy bunkers. In the Western Sector he flew as a Deputy Leader in a strike mission over Sialkot and Wazirabad marshalling yards. In spite of heavy enemy ground fire he caused serious damage to the marshalling yards.

Throughout, Squadron Leader Allan David Alley displayed gallantry, professional skill and devotion to duty of a high order.

During the operations against Pakistan in December, 1971, Squadron Leader Jal Maniksha Mistry was a Senior Pilot in a Fighter-Bomber Squadron. On 4th December he carried out a daring counter air deep day penetration mission to Kohat and caused extensive damage to the airfield. On 5th December he was leading a formation of two aircraft on a strike mission to Sakesar Radar Station, which was very heavily defended. The aircraft flown by his Number Two became unserviceable during take off itself. Undeterred by this, he proceeded alone on this mission. After reaching the target he attacked the Radar Station in the face of heavy ground fire and succeeded in damaging and putting the radar station off the air.

Throughout, Squadron Leader Jal Maniksha Mistry displayed commendable courage, determination and devotion to duty.

During the operations against Pakistan in December, 1971, Squadron Leader Krishan Kumar Bakshi was a senior pilot in one of the Fighter-Bomber Squadron. On the 6th December, 1971, he was leading a mission over Naya Chor and Dhoran area. While proceeding to the target his Number two spotted a formation of four enemy Sabre aircraft. Though outnumbered he turned towards the enemy aircraft and engaged them in aerial battle and in the ensuring dogfight he shot down one Sabre. In addition he also led a number of offensive air strike missions causing extensive destruction to enemy ground defended positions, Vehicles and troops in the face of heavy ground fire.

Throughout, Squadron Leader Krishan Kumar Bakshi displayed gallantry, professional skill and devotion to duty of a high order.

During the operations against Pakistan in December, 1971, Squadron Leader Suresh Damodar Karnik served as Flight Commander of a Bomber Squadron. He flew six very important and difficult missions, by day as well as by night in the Western and the Eastern Sector. These missions involved day and night bombing raids over enemy airfields and interdiction of enemy boats by day. The interdiction missions were flown against a large volume of flak, resulting in damage to his aircraft by enemy fire. Despite this, he pressed home his attacks and claimed a number of enemy boats destroyed. He also carried out a day bombing raid over Chittagong airfield in the fact of heavy Ack Ack fire. During this mission, he bombed and destroyed a large P.O.L. dump, which was seen to catch fire, by subsequent aircraft. Throughout the operations, in addition to flying his share of missions, he shouldered the burden of supervision of missions and the administration of the flight.

Throughout, Squadron Leader Suresh Damodar Karnik displayed gallantry, professional skill and devotion to duty of a high order.

During the operations against Pakistan in December, 1971, Squadron Leader Ravindra Nath Bali was a senior pilot in a FighterBomber Squadron. He was detailed to destroy a massive enemy thrust spearheaded by a tank regiment at Longewala. He led three strike missions on the 5th December, 1971 and one on the 6th December, 1971. During these attacks he destroyed three tanks and caused extensive damage to a number of other tanks and vehicles despite heavy ground fire and on some occasions intense enemy air opposition. On the 7th December 1971 he again led a strike mission to the same area and destroyed two tanks. However during the pull out after the second attack his aircraft was hit by ground fire and half of the control surfaces were knocked off. Despite the damage to his aircraft, he skillfully brought it back to base. His missions contributed significantly in neutralizing the enemy thrust and in the overall success of the operations.

Throughout, Squadron Leader Ravindra Nath Bali displayed gallantry, professional skill and devotion to duty of a high order.

During the operations against Pakistan in 1971, Squadron Leader Jasjit Singh flew a number of operational missions over heavily defended enemy areas. In spite of heavy ground opposition he pressed home his attacks and destroyed a number of enemy tanks, gun positions and bunkers. He also supervised the servicing of aircraft and thus ensured maximum serviceability of aircraft for operations.

Throughout, Squadron Leader Jasjit Singh displayed gallantry, professional skill and devotion to duty of a high order.

During the operations against Pakistan in December, 1971, Squadron Leader Anil Kumar Bhadra as Flight Commander of a Bomber Squadron carried out and led night bombing missions deep into enemy territory, attacking vital and heavily defended military targets. On one occasion, although he was subjected to heavy Ack Ack fire at a low altitude, he kept cool and continued with his attack and dropped his bombs on the target causing considerable damage.

Throughout, Squadron Leader Anil Kumar Bhadra displayed gallantry, determination and professional skill of a high order.

During the operations against Pakistan in December, 1971, Squadron Leader Kirpal Singh with utter disregard to his safety, carried out 9 successful operational sorties in the face of stiff enemy air and ground opposition. The information obtained from these sorties proved of great value to our Air and Ground forces in taking swift action to deal with enemy concentrations.

Throughout, Squadron Leader Kirpal Singh displayed gallantry, determination and professional skill of a high order.

During the operations against Pakistan in December, 1971, Squadron leader Dinesh Chandra Bhandary was serving with a Bomber Squadron. As a senior Navigator, he was responsible for leading and planning the raids against various difficult targets. He flew nine missions against deep centred enemy targets, which were well defended with air cover and ground ack-ack. Some of the missions were flown in broad daylight involving great risks. His determination and cool courage in hitting the enemy targets were an ideal example to the junior Navigators. His guidance and advice were mainly responsible for the success of other missions also.

Throughout, Squadron leader Dinesh Chandra Bhandary displayed gallantry, professional skill and leadership of a high order.

During the conflict with Pakistan in December, 1971, Squadron Leader Ramesh Chander Sachdeva served with a FighterBomber Squadron. On 4th December 1971, he carried out attacks with determination and tenacity against very heavy ack-ack defended targets at Chittagong and later destroyed seven trains, carrying vital supplies to the Pakistani forward positions, at Laksham. He flew 15 operational sorties in 6 days of the operations and destroyed a number of ships, tanks, Gun positions, bunkers, trains and fuel tanks in the face of heavy ground fire. He landed back with serious bullet holes in the aircraft on two occasions. On 10th December 1971, while carrying out a sortie, his engine flamed out after an attack on an enemy boat and his aircraft crashed as a result of which he died.

Throughout, Squadron Leader Ramesh Chander Sachdeva displayed gallantry, leadership, determination and flying skill of a high order.

During the operations against Pakistan in December, 1971, Squadron Leader Sindhaghatta Subbaramu was attached to a Fighter Squadron. He flew a total of thirtytwo missions in the form of Combat Air Patrol, escort and interception. He flew these sorties in adverse weather conditions and in pitch-dark night in the vicinity of hilly areas. During every escort mission, he ensured that the strike force was never threatened in any way by enemy aircraft, which enabled the strike force to attack the targets fearlessly. He always brought the strike forces back to base safely.

Throughout, Squadron Leader Sindhaghatta Subbaramu displayed gallantry, professional skill and leadership of a high order.

During the operations against Pakistan in December, 1971, Squadron Leader Kalyan Kumar Dutta, as Navigations Leader of a Bomber Squadron played a key role in the successful performance of the Squadron. The entire missions and the route missions for the squadron were meticulously carried out by him. In addition, as Navigator to his Squadron Commander he undertook the most difficult and dangerous missions himself with exemplary keenness and courage. On a special mission to an airfield by night, he executed some of the best and most accurate navigation at extremely low attitude of 100 to 200 feet above the hilly terrain resulting in a successful first run attack over the runway.

Throughout, Squadron Leader Kalyan Kumar Dutta displayed gallantry, professional skill and leadership of a high order.

During the operations against Pakistan in December, 1971, Squadron Leader Charanjit Singh Sandhu was in command of a helicopter unit. On the night of December the 7th and 8th December, 1971, he personally led a special heli-born operation deep behind the enemy positions in the Eastern Sector. During the very first mission his force came under enemy fire, but he successfully carried out the landings of his force. The same night he flew an additional five similar missions.

Throughout, Squadron Leader Charanjit Singh Sandhu displayed gallantry, professional skill and leadership of a high order.

During the operations against Pakistan in December, 1971, Squadron Leader Ashok Prataprao Shinde was serving as Senior Pilot in a Fighter Squadron. He led a number of ground attack missions in support of our troops. On two occasions he was responsible to rescue our trapped battalions by blunting the advance of enemy armour in Chamb Jaurian Sector. With utter disregard to his personal safety he led this formation in a determined and fearless attack knocking out 7 enemy tanks and 27 vehicles despite heavy anti aircraft fire. This action of his bad a decisive effect in relieving enemy presence on our ground forces in this sector.

Throughout, Squadron Leader Ashok Prataprao Shinde displayed gallantry, determination and leadership of a high order.