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Vishist Seva Medal Awardee List for the year 2018
A total of 28 Awards are listed.
Vishist Seva Medal : 28 |
 Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
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| Air Cmde | Anuj Aggrawal 18015 AE(L) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 18 | Announced 26 Jan 18 | |
| Details : |  Air Commodore Anuj Aggrawal (18015) AE(L) was commissioned in the technical branch of Indian Air Force on 19 Aug 1985. The officer is presently posted in Headquarters South Western Air Command (SWAC) and working as Command Engineering Officer since 02 Mar 15. The officer, in his 32 years of illustrious career, has held important multidisciplinary appointments which include Senior Engineer (Aircraft) and Chief Engineering Officer of SU-30 bases, Director of MiG-29 Weapon Cell and Joint Director Air Staff Inspection. The multifarious experience acquired by the officer in his distinguished career has been singularly responsible for the exemplary manner in which he has handled the challenging task of Command Engineering Officer for the last two years. The aircraft serviceability in SWAC AOR has enhanced significantly during his tenure and was maximum in 2016-17 as compared to the previous five year period. The availability of the aircrafts during Air Force and Command level exercise Ex - LIVE WIRE in Oct 2015 and Ex- MAHAGUJRAT in Nov 2016 was more than 95%. The conduct of the signature event of Fire Power Display at Jaisalmer in March 2016 created a history wherein the entire exercise involving participation of a large number of aircrafts was conducted without any incident. His leadership quality and involvement ensured desired operational preparedness on armament front during contingency post URI attack. His methodical approach and efforts towards coordination, monitoring and follow up for achieving the above feat were found to be exceptional in order and highly praiseworthy. His knowledge on Russian fighters has immensely helped in resolving a rnultitude of pending problems on SU-30 MKI and Bison aircraft. The recovery of 88-115 at a premier base after prolonged AOG period of approximately six years and SK Rig at another fighter base after more than three years is testimony of his perseverance and management skills. In addition, build-up of eight long AOG Jaguar aircraft in the last one year has been undertaken under his guidance. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Air Cmde Anuj Aggrawal. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Air Cmde | Gummadi Sahed Phani Nandiswara Chowdary 18521 AE(L) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 18 | Announced 26 Jan 18 | |
| Details : |  Air Commodore Gummadi Sahed Phani Nandiswara Chowdary (18521-R) AE(L) was commissioned in the technical branch of Indian Air Force on 29 Aug 86. He has held the appointments of Chief Engineering Officer (CEO) of a Flying Training Establishment Chief of Production of a Base Repair Depot, Senior Engineer (Electronics), Instructor at Air Force Technical College and staff at Command and Air HQ. The officer has been trained abroad on an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle based weapon system and the Basic Trainer Aircraft PC-7 Mk-II. He was deeply involved in their initial induction and played a significant role in establishing Maintenance Philosophy of both the fleet. As CEO of a Flying Training Base during the era of severe resource crunch of Aero engines and safety issues in the Kiran fleet, he marshalled all the available resources with outstanding efficiency and ensured high serviceability and safe conduct of training flying operations. His other significant contributions include first ever installation of Precision Approach Path Indicator at an high Altitude Air Base, major transformation in the Landline Communication setup at an Air Base in North East Setting up the repair lines for IGLA missile system and Radar Data Processors of ST-68 (UM) radars at 7 Base Repair Depot. The officer is a post graduate in Computer Science and Gold Medallist in Electronics and Communication Engineering. He has been assessed exceptional in all the service courses undergone. As AOC, of 5 Base Repair Depot, he has ensured that all tasks pertaining to Aircraft and Testers calibration and repair are carried out within the laid down timeframes. He successfully initiated and steered a number of pro-active measures to ensure that the vintage Avro aircraft is maintained airworthy despite several obsolescence issues. One of the notable achievements was the replacement of Mechanical Gyro in Autopilot of Avro aircraft with the more reliable Fibre Optical Gyro which was also appreciated by the Prime Minister of India. Several upgrade projects were initiated by him to develop the Depot as a Centre of Excellence in the area of Aircraft Testers repair and calibration. He also ensured that the Technical Infrastructure including hangars, hangar attached bays and storage areas of the entire Depot is modernised catering to the futuristic needs. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Air Cmde Gummadi Sahed Phani Nandiswara Chowdary. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Air Cmde | Ajay Kumar Arora 18539 AE(L) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 18 | Announced 26 Jan 18 | |
| Details : |  Air Commodore Ajay Kumar Arora (18539) AE(L) was commissioned in the technical branch of Indian Air Force on 16 Aug 86. He has held the important appointments of Director Maintenance Plans (DMP) at Air HQ from 09 Jun 2009 to 08 Nov 10, CEO of a Su 30 and ALH base from 09 Nov 10 to 16 May 12, DS at the College for Defence Management (CDM) from 28 May 13 to 30 Nov 15, before taking over as AOC of 9 BRD on 01 Dec 15. Due to his dynamism, intelligence, clarity of perception and vision as DMP, he was able to suggest solutions for many diverse and intricate policy matters such as FOL discipline, entrance exam for Masters' degree, new inductions and servicing schedules, which are in vogue even today. As CEO, he undertook the challenging tasks of AOG build of four aircraft on AOG for a long time, streamlining labs for EW, Recce and In- Flight Refueling pods, Simulator for Su 30 and setting up Tech Fit with associated labs in the new hangar. He contributed immensely and selflessly in conduct of Colour Presentation held at the Station. As DS at CDM, he also took over the additional charge of DS Coordinator concurrently and contributed in formulation of long term roll on plan of CDM, comprehensive review and update of College SOPs, review of precis and introduction of various new exercises. He is highly qualified and has done exceedingly well in most of the courses. He has Masters' Degrees to his credit from HT Kharagpur, Air University Montgomery, Alabama, USA, Madras University and Osmania University respectively. As AOC, he has undertaken various challenging projects such as repair of Su 30 EW pods, critical components of radars and various other avionic systems. With his foresight, immaculate planning, vigour and zeal, he has commenced repair line for new equipment such as FAC kit, Radio sets of different radars, Radio Interface Unit and various other communication equipments. Under his incisive leadership, the innovative work done by the Depot has been acknowledged by HQ MC and Depot has been awarded best Systems' BRD for the year 2016. The Depot was also judged "Average Plus" by DMI during the same year. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Air Cmde Ajay Kumar Arora. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Air Cmde | Vangal Krishnaswamy Sashindran 18695 MED | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 18 | Announced 26 Jan 18 | |
| Details : |  Air Commodore Vangal Krishnaswamy Sashindran (18695-R) Med was commissioned in the Medical Branch in Dec 86. He is presently serving as Professor and Head of Department, geriatric Medicine at Armed Force College (AFMC) since 14 Ju12014. He contributed immensely and single handedly in setting up the new speciality. He has specialized in the field of Infectious diseases and was awarded the Fogarty International Fellowship of AIDS research in 2004. Air Commodore Sashindran has earlier served as Staff surgeon to the Chief of Air-Staff and as Senior Advisor Medicine at Air Force Central Medical Establishment where he set up the Lifestyle Diseases Research Centre. An intrepid mountaineer, he has led several expeditions in uncharted regions in the Karakorams and Arunachal Pradesh for the Air Force Adventure Cell. At AFMC, he has initiated many innovative teaching practices in Medical Education to develop compassion and a caring attitude among students. He has instituted integrated teaching across disciplines. The multi-disciplinary Infectious Diseases round is a case in point. He guides the activities of the Students' Scientific Society and is the driving force behind Undergraduate Medical Research in AFMC. His hard work has led to him winning many accolades and publications. He goes beyond the call of duty to ensure that his students excel in their field and was voted as the best teacher for six years in succession. His passion for teaching remains undiminished. He is the epitome of compassion and professionalism making him a role model for aspiring physicians and officers. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Air Cmde VangaJ Krishnaswamy Sashindran. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Air Cmde | Devesh Vatsa 18751 AE(L) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 18 | Announced 26 Jan 18 | |
| Details : |  Air Cmde Devesh Vatsa (18751-G) AE(L) was commissioned on 15 Feb 1988 in the Technical branch of Indian Air Force. He is presently serving as Principle Director Signals (Air) since Jan 2017. During the past twenty nine years of meritorious service he has held various important field and Staff appointments. He commanded operational Signal Units and also commanded Communication System Installation Units (CSIUs). The Officer displayed exemplary professionalism and astuteness while commissioning critical SATCOM links, Optical Fiber link and Digital Static Tropo links. While working as Director Operation Centre (NOC), during implementation of Project AFNET, his indomitable spirit and innovativeness towards problem solving was noteworthy. As the Station Commander of a critical operational Communication Center, he brought about qualitative improvement in both environment and infrastructure. Through concerted efforts he was able to establish a new site for installation of Radar at a forward location. This required persuasion and liaison at the highest level in the Government of Himachal Pradesh. His inspirational leadership was a catalyst for the Station personnel, as the team of the Station won the Best Overall Performance Trophy in WAC. As Director Ops (IW) he has been instrumental in enhancing operational capabilities of IAF in the Cyber Domain. Improvement in Cyber Security posture was achieved through extensive Cyber Awareness Campaigns, IW Audits, celebration of "IW Awareness Week" and institutionalization of an award for best IW complaint station. He ardently pursued Operationalisation of Cyber Operation Centre (COC)needed for developing defensive and deterrent cyber capability of IAF. During his assignment as PD Sigs (Air) the contract for Tropo upgrade was inked, comprehensive AMC for Mobile communication Terminals (MCTs) was fructified, the case for three years AMC for AFNET was brought to logical conclusion, and training for MBTS and DMRR/MCs was organized to enhance net centric capabilities of IAF. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Air Cmde Devesh Vatsa. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Air Cmde | Kirti Khajuria 19538 F(P) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 18 | Announced 26 Jan 18 | |
| Details : |  Air Cmde Kirti Khajuria (19538-R) was commissioned as a fighter pilot in the Flying branch of Indian Air Force on 11 Jun 88. He took over command of a premier base of Air Force on 21 Dec 15. He is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy and Defence Service Staff College. He is a Qualified Flying Instructor and a Fighter Combat Leader and has flown nearly 2,700 h on various fighter and trainer aircraft. He has commanded a MiG-23MF Squadron and commissioned and commanded the first Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) Node of the IAF. He has also held the staff appointments of Joint Director (Training) and Director Weapons at Air Headquarters and was involved in major weapons procurement during the period 2012 - 2015. Within two days of his assumption of command of the Air Force Station, the Deputy Commissioner had illegally used Section 133 of Cr PC to enter into Air Force Land. With his decisive and prompt handling of this sensitive situation, he displayed his crisis handling capability and exceptional decision making under stress. He briefed the media and the local population adequately and diffused a potential civil-military confrontation in an admirable manner. As Air Officer Commanding, he ensured that all aspects of Operations, Maintenance and Administration were supervised effectively, all the while allowing various station appointments a free hand and giving necessary advice and course correction, when required. His awareness and knowledge of all activities being undertaken by the Station has been comprehensive and incisive. His constant guidance and effective leadership ensured that the station always achieved its tasks well ahead of time and the performance of his team can be gauged from the fact that under his command, the Station was awarded the trophies for Best Flying Training Establishment, Best Aerospace Safety Unit and Best MT Section for the year 2016. He regularly flies with the Hawk squadron pilots and the Suryakiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) and gives necessary guidance for conduct of operations and training. His guidance and involvement with upgradation of SKAT has ensured that the team successfully upgraded itself to a six aircraft display team and is now in the process of upgrading to a nine aircraft aerobatic display team. His attention to detail and sterling leadership prior to and during the DASI inspection in December 2016 ensured that the Station performed very well in all spheres. With his strict emphasis on discipline, probity and integrity while leading the way with personal example, he has ensured that Air Force Station Bidar performs all its tasks effectively and efficiently. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Air Cmde Kirti Khajuria. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Sanjay Kant 18012 AE(L) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 18 | Announced 26 Jan 18 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Sanjay Kant (18012-S) AE(L) was commissioned in the technical branch of Indian Air Force on 19 Aug 85. He is an alumnus of National Defence College. In his 32 years of service, the officer has held several important Command and Staff appointments which includes Commanding officer (CO) of Communication Training Institute (CTI), Chief Engineering Officer of a Fighter Base, CO of Su-30 MKI Tettra School, Director (MiG-21 Weapon Cell) at Air HQ and Senior Engineering Officer (SEO) of a Fighter Squadron. The officer is presently deployed as Command Engineering B at HQ WAC. In his present appointment, the officer is responsible for maintenance of Su-30 MKI, MiG-29, Jaguar Fighters and RPA operating in WAC AoR. He has been instrumental in concept evolution, planning and execution of high intensity Fighters Operation Exercises for Su-30 MKI and Jaguar fleets. He also spearheaded customization of Ground Handling Equipment for efficient handling of Armaments from Storage Point to Aircraft and facilitated Indigenization of Bomb Loading Trolley and other support equipment. These efforts greatly enhanced the Sortie Generation rates of the fighter ac, thereby, enhancing Op Potential in IAF> He also played a key role in implementing On Line Command Maint Control Centre (CMCC) Software, for optimization of aircraft maintenance activities. This CMCC Software was later adopted for PAN_IAF applications. He has worked as Senior Engineering Officer in three MiG-21 T-75 Squadrons for nine years, wherein his units were adjudged best in maintenance. He is one of the few select, who was trained abroad on Su-30 MKI aircraft (at France I Israel and Russia). After induction of Su-30 MKI fleet, the officer commanded Su-30 MKI Tettra School and trained air warriors required to operationalise first two units. He immensely contributed in initial setup and formulation of Maintenance Schedules of '0' and 'I' levels of Su-30 MKI fleet. As Director of MiG-21 fleet at Air HQ, he played a vital role in analyzing and resolving issues of Aero Engineers' corrosion and Hydraulic System failures in MiG-21 ac in IAF. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Sanjay Kant. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Venugoplan Vijayan Menon 18527 AE(M) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 18 | Announced 26 Jan 18 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Venugopalan Vijayan Menon (18527-S) AE(M) was commissioned in the technical branch of Indian Air Force on 17 Aug 86. He is presently posted as Commanding Officer of Maintenance Officers' Categorisation Board (MOCB). Gp Capt Menon has held appointments of Senior Engineer (Mechinical), staff at Air HO, Chief Engineering Officer (CEO) of two premier bases and Leadership Trainer at Centre for Leadership training and Behavioural Science (C-LABS)'. He is an alumnus of Defence Services Staff College. He has been Cat A' Flight Engineer on An-32 and IL-76 aircraft. He was also an Examiner in the Aircrew Examining Board. As Joint Director at Air HO, he was instrumental in extending the Total Technical Life of MiG-21 M fleet, from 3000 to 3400 hours, enabling fleet sustenance for four more years. As CEO utilizing his analytical skills, he resolved the issue of hydraulic pump failure on MiG-21 aircraft, by modifying the maintenance procedures. During this tenure, the base was conferred with 'Best in Maintenance" trophy and this also contributed in the base being adjudged as the best fighter base by the Inspection directorate. During his second CEO tenure, he ensured high serviceability of the ageing Mi 25/35 heptr fleet. His ability to communicate and motivate enabled him to standardize and stabilize the Leadership and Organizational Behaviour Capsules. As CO, MOCB, he seamlessly merged the Categorisation of Logistics Officers. His relentless efforts enabled MOCB conduct 331 Maintenance Cat Boards in which 1767 officers were categorised. Under his guidance, Standardisation of ab-initio Aeronautical Engineer courses was formalized. Towards centralizing the resources of Inspection Branch, he led his team to relocate MOCB from Bangalore to Hindon in a seamless manner with minimal disturbance to the Categorisation process. Revision of AFO governing categorization of maintenance officers was finalized in record time. His tireless, continual and unflinching effort ensured that the task of populating the Unit Establishment was achieved and Revision of Unit Policy Page has been progressed up to MoD. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Venugopalan Vijayan Menon. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Aditya Jain 19477 ADM | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 18 | Announced 26 Jan 18 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Aditya Jain (19477) Adm was commissioned in Administration Branch of the Indian Air Force on 17 Dec 1988. He is presently posted as Chief Administrative Officer at Air Force Station New Delhi wef 09 Nov 2015. He is current Cat 'A' ATCO and has conducted more than 6000 letdowns. His previous major appointments includes DPO-1 (Adm), Joint Director {Air Staff Inspection (ATS) and (Operations) ATS} at Air HQ, CATCO (HQ EAC), Instructor at Air Traffic Control Training Establishment, Air Force Academy. He participated in IPKF Operations in 1988-89 and UN Mission Congo in 2007-08. As Chief Administrative Officer at Air Force Station New Delhi, he has displayed exemplary leadership and undertaken extraordinary initiatives to innovate work services projects, initiate troops welfare oriented ventures and accomplish ceremonial tasks as mandated. The quantum of responsibility of C Adm 0 of this quintessential Administrative Station is manifold due to distinct variables coupled with the technical and domestic area being spread over in six different pockets of NCR. His extraordinary initiative assisted in making payment of services charges to NDMC for all camps of AFND which were pending for the past one decade. The officer through his perseverance and effective liaison has initiated and completed the construction of Security Wall adjacent to Air Force Sports Complex and secured the land under IAF possession. The said land is still not mutated in the favour of IAF. Other noteworthy projects include completion of construction of permanent overhead shed to organize service events for larger gathering resulting in saving precious Government money of about Rs. 10 Lakhs per annum. NDMC water supply was received by the Station in 2014, however the same could not be utilized due to non-availability of connecting grid. He conceptualized and completed the connecting grid which resulted in availability of sufficient quality drinking water for the personnel and their families and also constructed a state of art multipurpose Station Auditorium with modern facilities to screen UFO movies and organize seminars etc. The officer gave due impetus to physical fitness of troop's and commissioned two volleyball courts, four artificial grass practice cricket pitches and installation of open air gym equipment for Air Warriors at AFND and VSV, Gurgaon. His commitment towards upgrading welfare oriented ventures is distinctly visible as first ever Kendriya Bhandar Store in IAF was established in VSV, Gurgaon and Old Camp at AFND. Other prominent venture includes five Mother Dairy Milk product booths, enhancing range of items and consequent sale of CSD items. His dedicated efforts to provide piped natural gas in the camps of AFND and installation of automated parking system in shopping complex are testimony of the perseverance. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Aditya Jain. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Pankajakshan Sanjeev Nair 20652 AE(M) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 18 | Announced 26 Jan 18 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Pankajakshan Sanjeev Nair (20652) AE(M) was commissioned in the technical branch of Indian Air Force on 12 Mar 90. He has held appointments of Senior Engineering Officer of a MiG-29 Squadron, OIC Tech Flight of MiG-29 Base, Production Engineer and Senior Production Engineer of the MiG-29 overhaul line at 11 Base Repair Depot, Senior Engineer (Mechanical) of a Su-30MKI base, Joint Director Engineering at Air HQ (VB) and Chief Engineering Officer of a Su-30MKI Operational Base. He is trained on MiG-29, Su-30K and Su-30MKI aircraft and is an alumnus of Defence Services Staff College, Bangladesh. He is presently functioning as Director of Su-30MKI Maintenance Cell at Air HQ (VB) since 01 Apr 2015. He was awarded commendations by Air Officer Commanding in Chief, SWAC and WAC in 1996 and 2000 respectively and Chief of Air Staff in 2004. The Officer has many landmark achievements to his credit which have resulted in substantial improvements in the Operational potential of the respective fleets that he has worded in. As oi/c Tech Flight, he led the team of specialists for the first MiG 29 high altitude trials at Leh in 1999 whereby high altitude starting and maintenance procedures were formulated and streamlined. At 11BRD, he was instrumental in preparing comprehensive checks and procedures for Corrosion Prevention and Control Program for MiG-29 aircraft, which was the first such document for the fleet. He was able to recover two aircraft involved in accidents by innovative structural repairs which had never been attempted in the fleet before. He set up the Composites Repair Lab at 11 BRD and formulated out of the box repair solutions, resulting in recovery of many control surfaces. As the CEO at Su-30MKI base, he was able to ensure very high levels of tarmac availability. In an accident involving a loaded Su-30MKI with collapse of undercarriage, a broken wing and the loaded bombs partially embedded in the mud, he led from the front to defuse the bombs and made the aircraft tow worthy overnight and pave the way for subsequent recovery of the aircraft. In his current assignment as Director Engineering A1, he is responsible for Su-30 fleet maintenance management. By ensuring responsive product support, availability of critical spares, availability of test equipment and streamlining maintenance procedures, he has been able to successfully enhance the fleet serviceability. Critical maintenance problems of aero engines and ejection seats have also now been mostly resolved and substantial reduction in the number of high failure rate aggregates has been achieved. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Pankajakshan Sanjeev Nair. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Rajesh Bhardwaj 20689 AE(L) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 18 | Announced 26 Jan 18 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Rajesh Bhardwaj (20689-B) AE(L) was commissioned in the technical branch of Indian Air Force on 12 Mar 1990. The officer is an alumnus of College of Defence Management and has been commended twice by AOC-in-C of Maintenance and Training Commands and once by the CAS. As Senior Engineering Officer of a MiG-29 fighter squadron, the officer participated actively in various operational exercise of the Squadron. The Squadron was awarded the 'Best Fighter Squadron' trophy by HQ Western Air Command consecutively for two years during his tenure, in which high quality maintenance practices and safety standards in the Squadron played a major role. As the Production Engineer at 11 BRD, he was instrumental in setting up the MiG-29 aircraft Hangar Line, formulation of the entire work flow process and associated documentation, which enabled the depot to obtain the coveted ISO 9001 certification. The officer was a key player in induction of Hawk aircraft and setting up of extended Second line servicing facilities of 223 rotables. He displayed his professional acumen and foresightedness in overcoming the teething issues while setting up these facilities. Setting up of Aero-engine and Jet pipe repair facilities are a testimony to his professionalism. As CEO, of a premier Air base, he initiated reliability improvement measures, resulting in considerable reduction in failure trends of retables. This ensured reduction in AOG from 17 to five aircraft, enhancement of serviceability to 71% and higher standards of aerospace and maintenance safety. The station was awarded 'Best in Maintenance' Trophy by HQ Training Command for two consecutive years during his tenure as CEO. In his present assignment as Director Hawk maintenance at Air HQ, He has been instrumental in resolving the long standing issue of procurement of Hawk spares which was held up for over three years due to non-finalization of the mode of procurement. He also utilized his experience and played a key role in facilitating setting up of extended second line servicing facilities for 110 rotables at a fighter base by optimum re-appropriation of assets. This is helping in reducing the turnaround time of unserviceable retables and has decreased the dependency on only one base. The officer ensure optimal aircraft availability at field units by planning timely calendar life extensions of aircraft with OEM's involvement which avoids bunching of aircraft for overhaul. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Rajesh Bhardwaj. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Sartaj Bedi 21024 F(P) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 18 | Announced 26 Jan 18 | |
| Details : |  Gp Capt Sartaj Bedi (21024-S) F(P) was commissioned as a helicopter pilot in the Flying branch of Indian Air Force on 15 Dec 90. He has commanded a frontline helicopter unit in J&K and has flown for nearly eight years in the sector. He has also been the Deputy Task Force Commander of the Anti-Naxal Task Force, whereby he established the IAF's presence in Jharkhand and Bihar. He completed the Air Staff Course with a 'Directing Staff' grading and has undergone the National Defence College course at Egypt. The officer is a recipient of the Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry) and a Commendation from GOC-in-C, Northern Command. The officer has commanded a flying Base prior to his current tenure as Director Operations (Helicopters). During his tenure as Station Commander of a transport and helicopter base, he was instrumental in the first-time induction of a fighter Squadron which stayed at the Base for over one and a half years. In his current tenure, the officer oversaw the signing of contracts for the acquisition of Apache and Chinook helicopters. He then initiated the cases for their manpower, basing & MT requirements. Similarly, he also carried out the initial groundwork for the forthcoming acquisitions of 48 MLH, 65 LCH and 125 Kamov-226 & LUH. The thoroughness displayed by the officer at these initial stages has ensured that these projects are progressing smoothly. As Director of Helicopter Operations, he oversees the operations of the helicopter fleet. He has constantly endeavored to enhance the combat potential of the fleet by enhancing all role related operations with special emphasis on night operations. The NVG flying across the fleet is being progressively enhanced while conforming to peacetime safety norms. He also spearheaded the review of the Op Instructions of the helicopter fleet. He meticulously calculated the requirements of high intensity operations for a limited period. He has also displayed great capacity to adapt to flexible situations and met every task allotted to the IAF, especially for HADR, that has projected the service in good light. He has consistently provided valuable inputs for decision making at this HQ and taken every task to its logical conclusion. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Sartaj Bedi VM. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Parameswaran Sreekumar 21152 AE(L) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 18 | Announced 26 Jan 18 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Parameswaran Sreekumar (21152) AE(L) was commissioned in the technical branch of the Indian Air Force on 04 March 1991. After earlier tenures as Engineering Officer at various levels in Pechora, Surface to Air missile unit, fighter squadrons and Aircraft and Systems Testing Establishment (ASTE), he tenanted the appointment of Chief Engineering Officer (CEO) at two fighter aircraft bases under different operational Commands. He is qualified in the field of Quality Assurance. Flight and has also undergone the Higher Defence Management course from college of Defence Management. He also holds post-graduate degrees in 'Computer Science' and 'Management'. In Pechora squadron, he was instrumental in recovering two main Generator sets powering the Missile Guidance Radar, which, otherwise, called for third line expertise. He supervised setting up an additional overhaul line for launchers at an IAF Base Repair Depot, thus, enhancing overall availability of operational assets besides affecting huge savings to the exchequer. Later as the CEO at a fighter base, he was instrumental in not only enhancing the operational capability by way of building up two fighter aircraft and one helicopter which were on ground for more than two years, but also in smooth induction of Mi-17 V5 unit. Gp Capt Sreekumar is presently working as the Officer Commanding Technical Support Squadron at ASTE. Under his guidance, the daunting task of maintaining multi fleet Russian, Western and Indigenous aircraft along with the associated complex spares management and ensuring availability of air warriors with adequate training status, were performed exceptionally well. Despite very frequent instrumentation and de-instrumentation of these aircraft, all necessary checks were managed exceptionally well with in-house innovative Quality Assurance audit, which helped in sustaining a Nil Human Error (Servicing) record till date. With his vast experience and exceptional professional knowledge, he continues to play a pivotal role in operationalizing the first indigenous Tejas LCA squadron resurrected at ASTE. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Parameswaran Sreekumar (Retired). | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Kamal Sharma 21350 LGS | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 18 | Announced 26 Jan 18 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Kamal Sharma (21350-A) Lgs was commissioned in the Logistics Branch of Indian Air Force on 15 Jun 91. He is presently posted to Air HO as Director IMMOLS Air HO since 01 Apr 2015. The officer implemented the IMMOLS upgrade project across IAF between 2015-16. It was in ambitious and multi-front technology upgrade of Hardware, OS, SOL-Server and topology virtually renewing it for the next decade. The entire project (to be implemented in two steps across 159 locations) was executed ahead of planned timelines. Once the upgrade was accomplished, the officer took-up another major project, of re-utilising the old out-going servers as Disaster Recovery (DR) servers. It was an innovative solution, that would make the IMMOLS backbone more robust, providing real-time redundancy. Despite challenges of old hardware, the project was implemented between 2016-17. While the upgrade to Dell servers was contract worth 45 crores (approx.), the project of configuring and commissioning DR Servers across IAF was managed entirely out of existing resources and Annual Maintenance Contracts (AMCs), with no additional cost to the exchequer, resulting in substantial savings for IAF. A Supply Chain manaqernent (SCM) consultancy initiative was put in place to benchmark the IMMOLS application processes with the industry best practices. Tech Documentation, User manuals and Design literature was updated and formalised for reference. Massive master and process data purification efforts were launched bringing down item GIG from 14.51acs to 7.25Iacs. Under his leadership, a lot of innovative solutions were developed like Central lMMOLS Simulator, Image Server, Digital Library, specific utility dashboards etc. A quarterly news letter was brought out to enhance IMMOLS awareness. Currently, migration of Non-Lgs heads on IMMOLS and development of a specific application for Explosives are ready for rollout. He had been instrumental in imparting a forward looking approach to position IMMOLS at the forefront of emerging technologies with initiatives like incorporating Visual Analytics (Tableau Software), laying out a roadmap/ initiating Data Archiving the Data warehousing solution with Analytics engine to provide Decision Support System (DSS) for IAF and having application alerts on AFNET main and AFCEL handsets. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Kamal Sharma. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Lalitendra Kaza 21614 ADM | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 18 | Announced 26 Jan 18 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Lalitendra Kaza (21614-R) Adm was commissioned in the Administration branch of the Indian Air Force on 14 Dec 91. In his career spanning 24 years, he has served as Senior Sector Director (SSD), Chief Operations Officer (COO) and Commanding Officer (CO) of frontline radar units. The officer is an Alumnus of the Defence Services Staff College. He has been commended twice by the AOC-in-C in 1995 and by the CAS in 2014. He is currently serving as the Chief Administrative Officer (C Adm 0) of AF Station Hasimara. He was the Chief co-ordinator for the President's Standards Presentation (PSP) at the Base in Nov 15.The Base faced multiple challenges of remoteness of location, inadequacy of infrastructure to accommodate close to five hundred additional personnel for almost two months and a protracted monsoon with very heavy rainfall. Undeterred by the challenges, the officer went about the job with immaculate planning and inspirational leadership. He displayed exemplary liaison with station resources to transform a wildly vegetated Base and its surroundings into a befitting one within a very short time. He provided timely guidance and intervention in all facets of the PSP ensuring flawless conduct of the event. The Base is slated for the induction of a number of new weapon systems, necessitating conceiving a modified Master Zonal Plan, which the officer accomplished exhibiting exemplary foresight. In 2016, once the Base was selected for the induction of the latest aircraft, the officer involved himself deeply with the Air HQ and OEM teams in finalising the designs for specialised buildings, resolutely went about clearing the wild undergrowth at the areas earmarked for construction of infrastructure and assisted in fast tracking the Boards of Officers to pave the way for timely induction. The officer through his excellent liaison with civil authorities secured about 20 acres of Air Force land with is outside the walled boundaries of the Base. Additionally, he has made the foundation work to facilitate accrual of about 500 acres of land required for the development of the Base in view of the future inductions. The officer was instrumental in the implementation and gainful utilisation of the MES Online Complaint System in vastly improving the clientele satisfaction, making the Base the frontrunner with the EAC AoR. His active involvement ensured seamless implementation of the eticketing scheme. The officer also meticulously went about changing the existing area lightings within the Base from the earlier conventional lighting systems to LED resulting in significant enhancement of Base security and savings to the exchequer to the tune of 90 Lac. He also made noteworthy contributions in areas pertaining to vegetation clearance, providing healthy living environment, and overall improvement of the quality of life. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Lalitendra Kaza. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Ashok Kumar Dash 21668 MED | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 18 | Announced 26 Jan 18 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Ashok Kumar Dash (21668-S) Med was commissioned in the Army Medical Corps on 16 Dec 1991. During his distinguished service of 25 years, he has held various key appointments including Commanding Officer of 10 AF Hospital, Head of the Department of Nuclear Medicine at Command Hospital, Bangalore and has served as a Classified Specialist at various Hospital like Military Hospital Delhi, Indian Naval Hospital Ship Ashwini, and Command Hospital Bangalore. He is presently serving as Staff Surgeon to Chief of the Air Staff. The officer during his service career has brought out transformational change in the working environment even in the most trying circumstances. The officer was sent under emergent condition on a deputation to a remote part of Northern Province in Afghanistan in March 2002 in one of the most war ravaged areas in Afghanistan. He was instrumental in starting Streptokinase Thrombolysis therapy for heart attack, broad spectrum IV antibiotic therapy for severe infections of brain/lungs and Chemotherapy in outpatient department. His efforts were instrumental in saving many lives and were appreciated by the Governor of Balkh Province. As Head of Department of Nuclear Medicine at Command Hospital Bangalore, he realised that the Positron Emission Tomography -Computerised Tomography (PET-CT) Equipment with Army Hospital (Research & Referral) was a rudimentary 2 Slice Siemens PET-CT Equipment. Realizing this limitation, he vigorously pursued and acquired a state of the art 64 Slice PET- CT Equipment for molecular imaging. He got the project building ready along with a high end transformer. He worked tirelessly to get a nod from the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board. This helped Air Force acquire a modern imaging centre for the Armed Forces. Based on his professional acumen he was appointed as the Staff Surgeon to Chief of the Air Staff in March 2015. He brought in effective Critical Care Specialised Delivery System to handle all medical emergencies of VVIPs. For distinguished service of a high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Ashok Kumar Dash. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Solayan Kannan 21887 ADM | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 18 | Announced 26 Jan 18 | |
| Details : |  Gp Captain Solayan Kannan (21887) Adm was commissioned in the Administrative Branch of Indian Air Force on 13 Jun 92. The officer has held diverse staff appointments which includes Chief Administrative Officer of a Flying Wing, Security Officer of two major Air Force Stations Staff Officer to DG I&S, Staff Officer to SASO & AOC-IN-C HQ WAC and Sqn Cdr of a Training Sqn in one of the major Training Institute. In addition, the officer has commanded a Provost & Security Unit and Airmen Selection Centre. For the dedication and hard work put in by the officer, he has been commended by both the CAS and AOC-in-C. He is presently posted as Commanding Officer of HQ SWAC Unit with effect from 30 Nov 15. Under his command, the provost & Security Unit was adjudged as the best Provost Unit consecutively for two years. As Chief Administrative Officer at Air Force Station Vadodara, the officer had made significant achievements, which had facilitated vital progress in obtaining sanctions from the State Administration for provisioning of Narmada Water for the Station, acquisition of land for a Transport Sqn and restoration of Old Palace of Makarpura. His involvement and experience in the works services ensured smooth conduct of fighter operations at Vadodara where the infrastructure was brought up to the highest standards befitting for fighter operations in a short span. HQ SWAC IAF shifted to Gandhinagar in 1998 from Jodhpur till then the Command HQ and HQ SWAC (U) were accommodated in hired buildings of Government of Gujarat. Within a short span of taking over as Commanding Officer, it was his involvement, pro-active approach and leadership that ensured shifting of Command HQ from Government hired buildings to its permanent location at Vayu Shakti Nagar, Chiloda. He has worked tirelessly towards conducting of various seminars/ conclaves at HQ SWAC. The activities organized within a short span of time towards inauguration of the new HQ Building and conduct of recent Commanders Conference at newly constructed HQ SWAC, Vayu Shakti Nagar was lauded by both the CAS and the AOC-in-C. The planning and timely execution of all the works service by the officer ahead of schedule without compromising on quality set the stage for other last minute preparations. He has put in all out efforts to ensure judicious utilization of both public and non public funds which also resulted in acquiring valuable assets for HQ SWAC. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Solayan Kannan. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Harjit Singh Sidana 21908 EDN | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 18 | Announced 26 Jan 18 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Harjit Singh Sidana (21908) Edn was commissioned in the Education Branch of Indian Air Force on 13 Jun 92. During the past 24 years of his service career, he has held several key and important assignments. The officer was inducted in the Liaison Unit (LU) in 1995 and has had five successful tenures in various Liaison units performing Counter Intelligence duties. He commanded No 6 and No 5 AFLUs respectively. Presently, he is the Director (CSIT) at Air HQ (VB) since 03 Nov 2014. The officer has contributed immensely towards developing his source network and utilizing the Counter Intelligence capability of the Liaison Units to the maximum. He has been instrumental in cracking two Live Counter Intelligence cases in August 2014 and in December 2015 by neutralizing two Live spies, who had been working for the enemy country and passing sensitive information across. The officer is presently handling an ongoing Cl case in coordination with various agencies. He has been successful in gathering several vital leads which may give important leads to solve a large Counter Intelligence network. The officer has had a key role in establishing a server based Network in the Liaison Units during his tenure at Guwahati, Kanpur and Delhi Liaison Unit, thus achieving a secure and paperless unit. He had also setup a state of the art Interrogation Room at 6 Liaison Unit, Kanpur. Being a qualified Civil Engineer, he designed the entire OTM complex of 5 Liaison Unit during his tenure as the Commanding Officer of the uni1. The officer is the architect and developer of a secure Server Based web application named Chanakya Online Processing System (COPS), which has been fully developed and implemented in April 2016 for linking all the 10 Liaison Units through a dedicated VPN. This system is fully enabled for encrypted transmission and storage of vital data pertaining to aircraft, trespassers and personnel under observation, besides sending / receiving of the area reports, correspondence letters and Cl returns. The efforts of Group Captain Harjit Singh Sidana have enhanced the overall Counter Intelligence capability of the IAF by way of real time analysis and processing of data by the Liaison Units. His exemplary performance, dedication and untiring efforts in the field of Counter Intelligence is highly commendable. For distinguished service of high order Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Harjit Singh Sidana. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Rajesh Suresh Nandedkar 22108 F(P) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 18 | Announced 26 Jan 18 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Rajesh Suresh Nandedkar (22108-S) F(P) was commissioned as a fighter pilot in the Flying branch of the Indian Air Force on 19 Dec 92. He is a Category 'A' Qualified Flying Instructor (QFI) and has more than 5000 hours of accident/incident free flying to his credit. He has been the Flight Commander (Fit Cdr) of a Mirage-2000 Squadron (Sqn) and Commanded a MiG-21 Squadron. He has also been a Directing Staff (DS) at Flying Instructors School (FIS), and was selected as the first achieve Flying Instructor (CFI) for the newly acquired Pilatus PC-7 MK-II trainer aircraft. Presently, he is posted as Chief Operations Officer (COO) at a premier Fighter Station under the Central Air Command. He was the first squadron pilot to undertake live firing of Crystal Maze (CM) missile. He then formulated papers for operationalisation of CM and also made detailed briefing guide and Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the employment of special weapon As the first CFI of PC-7 MK-II aircraft, he contributed immensely in formulating syllabus, SOP and Briefing Guide for the newly inducted trainer aircraft (ac) and the fleet flew more than 15000 hours of accident free flying in one year under his watch. He was also instrumental in induction of first Pilatus Simulator at Air Force Academy (AFA). As DS at FIS, he singlehandedly digitized all the study material. Under his command, the MIG-21 Squadron was adjudged second overall in weapon firing competition, "Exercise Eklavya" and as the second best fighter Squadron of Western Air Command (WAC), competing against Su- 30, MiG-29 Jaguar and Bison fleet. Under his watch as COO, the station participated in 24 Command level exercises, 27 flying related workshops, 26 flying-trials and two Composite Graduate courses of Tactics and Combat Development & Establishment (TACDE). The base flew over 12000 hours on fourteen different types and accommodated over 1800 outstation movements. As the COO, he has shouldered the vast and demanding responsibilities of this highly active base with almost sincerity and dedication and ensured safety of operations. His efforts contributed towards the station attaining the coveted 'Best in Operations' trophy in Central Air Command (CAC) (2015), "Pride of CAC" (2016) and "Average Plus" grading in operations during Directorate of Air Staff Inspection (DASI) visit. He is current on all the roles of M-2000 and actively flies with all the flying units at base and has participated in highway landing, surge operations (Ops) and various exercises. He also trained aircrew of Mirage fleet on the Patric LDP. He upgraded the Terminal Weapon Control Centre at base using modern technology and integrated varied sensors, the same is considered as a bench mark for entire IAF. He maintained close liaison with Army and his sustained efforts resulted in Babina range being regularly utilized for live Bombing by aircraft of CAC. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Rajesh Suresh Nandedkar. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Sucharu Rai 22119 F(P) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 18 | Announced 26 Jan 18 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Sucharu Rai (22119-G) F(P) was commissioned as a fighter pilot in the Flying branch of the Indian Air Force on 19 Dec 92. He has over 2450 hrs of accident! incident free flying. He is a qualified Flying Instructor (OFI) and a Pilot Attack Instructor (PAl), apart from being a graduate of the Higher Air Command Course from the College of Air Warfare ( CAW). He has flown various trainer and fighter aircraft including HPT-32, Kiran MK IIA and MK II, most variants of the MiG-21, and MiG 23MF aircraft. He has held the appointment of CO of a frontline fighter. For his display of total dedication and professionalism of a very high order, he was conferred with the Vayu Sena Medal on 26 Jan 13. He has tenanted the important post of Director Plans at Air HO and has just completed a tenure as the Base Commander of a forward base in the Kashmir Valley. As the Base Commander of a flying base, Group Captain Sucharu Rai has been the epitome of a leader of men. With his understanding of operations, he personally ensured that the ongoing work of runway repairs at the Base, which had remained stagnant for over four years till his arrival, was reenergized and progressed relentlessly, in spite of the worsened security situation in Kashmir Valley. Due to his personal involvement and active participation, more than half the work on the RIW was completed, without compromising on the flying of the local Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) unit. Because of his meticulous planning, the local RPA unit flew unhindered and achieved over 1OOOHrsof accident free flying, the maximum flown by an RPA unit in one Financial Year. During his tenure, the security situation in the Kashmir Valley took a turn for the worse. Group Captain Sucharu Rai galvanised the base security to ensure that, in spite of repeated attacks on security forces in the valley, all personnel under his Command were always secure. He used the limited manpower available innovatively, and personally overlooked each aspect of security, to ensure an extremely safe environment for all. His integrated approach with other agencies, also guaranteed success in some very critical missions with Indian Army. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Sucharu Rai. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Joginder Singh 22133 F(P) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 18 | Announced 26 Jan 18 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Joginder Singh (22133-R) F(P) was commissioned as a fighter pilot in the Flying Branch of Indian Air Force on 19 Dec 92. He is performing duties of Director (International) in Defence Intelligence Agency since March 2014. His charter includes continuous monitoring of situation in Russia and Europe through own Defence Wings, carryout analyses, trending security scenario and bringing out global perspective on issues affecting security of India and recommend areas of interaction with respect to those countries. He has been relentlessly following unfolding events of target countries with a deep insight on strategic issues, formulating framework for options available to India and bringing out recommendations for engagement, has been some of the key areas of research by the officer. He has contributed immensely representing Defence Intelligence Agency at various scholarly platforms at ORF, VIF, IDSA, USI and other think tanks, assisted in policy formulation. He has actively participated at Global Technology Summit, Bangalore and at Kasauli on 'Sharing of India's Security Perspectives'. He has been singularly responsible for conduct of brain storming session at DIA on engagement with Russia and suggested number of ideas which have been endorsed by the NSA. Group Captain Joginder Singh is sharp and has an analytical mind resulting in bringing out a number of special reports meant for higher circulation which has found resonance at the highest level. He has been the architect for the foundational agreement with USA which has since been operationalised in the form of Logistic Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA). For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Joginder Singh. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Hirendra Assudani 22137 F(P) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 18 | Announced 26 Jan 18 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Hirendra Assudani (22137-K) F(P) was commissioned as a fighter pilot in the Flying branch of the Indian Air Force on 19 Dec 92. The officer is a Qualified Flying Instructor (QFI), a Pilot Attack Instructor (PAl), and an alumnus of Army War College, MHOW. He is fully operational on Su-30K and Su-30 MKI aircraft, with more than 3500 hrs of flying experience. He has held the appointments of Commanding Officer of a SU-30 Squadron, Ops Staff at HQ WAC, and is presently the Chief Operations Officer of a Su-30 MKI operating air base. As Chief Operations Officer, his untiring efforts have resulted in a marked improvement in the operational environment of the base, in addition to enhancement in Aerospace Safety and quantum of monthly flying. In Jan 2016, the officer was selected to lead the Indian Air Force contingent for "Exercise Red Flag" at Alaska. This was the first time ever that the IAF was participating in Ex Red Flag with a mixed fleet of fighters (Su-30 MKI and Jaguar) along with IL-78 and C-17 aircraft. It was entirely due to his meticulous planning, foresight and leadership that the exercise was conducted smoothly, without any short comings whatsoever. The contingent performed exceptionally well at Alaska, while maintaining 100% serviceability of its assets for all missions over a period of two months, while travelling approximately 40,000 kms. On the return leg, the officer also led the Su-30 MKI contingent for "Ex Desert Eagle" at UAE, where the IAF once again performed exceptionally well against F-16 and Mir 2000-V aircraft of UAE Air Force. The exceptionally conducted exercise not only raised the bar in defence cooperation but also left an indelible imprint of Indian Air Force's professionalism on the other two air forces. In his present appointment, the officer has displayed exceptional operational acumen. The various initiatives taken by the officer have resulted in an overall improvement of the operational capability of the base. The officer also commanded the prestigious Air Force Day parade in 2015 and was appreciated by all the dignitaries present. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Hirendra Assudani VM. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Manoj Kumar Mishra 22541 F(P) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 18 | Announced 26 Jan 18 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Manoj Kumar Mishra (22541) F(P) was commissioned as a Fighter Pilot in the Flying Branch of Indian Air Force on 21 Jun 93. Presently he is posted as Node Commander at an Integrated Air Command Control System (IACCS) Node since 20 Apr 15. The Officer is a Qualified flying instructor. He has served as Flight Commander of Mig-21 training unit, Commanding Officer (CO) of Pilotless Target aircraft (PTA) squadron (Sqn), CO of an aerostat unit and Director of International Defence Co-operation (IDC) at Air HQ. As Flight Commander of Mig-21 training unit he undertook the mammoth task of relocating the unit from one operational base to another. He ensured accident free flying and went on to achieve the record of 100% serviceability on old age vintage aircraft. As CO of PTA Sqn, during field trials of DRDO he made extraordinary efforts to successfully recover a Lakshya aircraft which otherwise was considered to be lost in sea. As CO of the Aerostat unit, he undertook several factory level repairs which would have actually involved the foreign vendor, Ms Rafale of Israel, thus saving huge cost to exchequer. In 2012-2013 due to sustained and tireless efforts of his team, he could manage to keep the leak rate of helium in Aerostat well below the maximum permitted rate of 100 Ibs per day and thereby improve the availability of aerostat manifold for operational use. As Director IDC, he prepared a roadmap for defence cooperation with friendly foreign countries. Presently, he is looking after the Air Defence (AD) Operations in IACCS node of South Western Air Command (SWAC) having the largest area of responsibility. He has planned and executed the historic & bold move to merge the Maharashtra AD sector with Gujarat. Due to his analytical thinking he managed to save Rs 3.06 crores by cancelling work services for new signal section and extension of IACCS operations room. He successfully provided flawless AD cover to International BRICS summit held at Goa. He has displayed exceptional leadership and motivation and management of the critical human resource. Under his command his IACCS Node was adjudged as best IACCS Node in SWAC. The node has conducted various command level seminars and workshop in exemplary and befitting manner. He has brought sea changes in quality of life in his station. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Manoj Kumar Mishra. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Rajesh Singh Bisht 23052 ADM | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 18 | Announced 26 Jan 18 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Rajesh Singh Bisht (23052) Adm was commissioned in the Administration Branch of the Indian Air Force on 18 Jun 94. In a career spanning more than twenty three years, the officer has held the appointment of Senior ATCO at an Air Force Station and was also deputation to UN Mission Congo as an ATCO. The staff appointments held by the officer include a stint in the Electronic Data Processing wing of Air Force Records Office, Staff Officer to Assistant Chief (Personnel Officers), Staff Officer to Senior Air Staff Officer as well as Command Org Officer in an Operational Command. The officer commanded a provost and security unit as well, where, as part of a special team, he conducted the security audit of six major bases and three important Command Headquarters. The original and path breaking observations brought out by the officer in the audit helped in identifying certain weakness in the security system and necessary remedial measures were initiated. The officer's meritorious service was recognized through commendations by Chief of the Air Staff and Air Officer Commanding in Chief of an Operational Command. As the Chief Administrative Officer of a premier fighter base under SWAC, the officer made significant contribution towards enhancing the working and living standards of the personnel. Under his stewardship, the station became one of the first to have exclusive dwelling units for Defence Security Corps as well as Non-Combatants (Enrolled) personnel. Relying on his vast experience as an Administrative Officer, he could efficiently monitor the progress of 34 Major works and 81 ongoing works in the station. Quality of works services, associated meticulous monitoring mechanism and the immaculate book-keeping were appreciated by the highest inspection agency of IAF., the Directorate of Air Staff Inspection and Administration was graded as Average Plus. An officer with indefatigable amount of energy, he could garner the limited human resources and through personal example, goad them to superlative level of performance enabling the Station being adjudged the 'Pride of SWAC 2015-2016, 'Best in Administration 2014-2015', Best Air Force School in Academics in IAF', 'Best SNCOs' Mess', 'Best in small arms firing' and 'Best in Sports' by Command Head Quarters, SWAC. The Station's preparations for the Presidential Standard and Color Presentation (PSP) in Mar 16 warranted major infrastructure developments within a short span of time. Despite the contracts getting finalised only 3 to 4 months prior to the PSP, Group Captain Rajesh Singh Bisht, through his personal involvement and supervision, ensured the works services were completed in a record time, with attention to detail, simultaneously ensuring exceptional quality. The officer is also an outstanding sportsman, who brought laurels while representing IAF in Squash Racquet game four times in Services Championship. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Rajesh Singh Bisht. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Pankaj Mittal 23166 F(P) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 18 | Announced 26 Jan 18 | |
| Details : |  Gp Capt Pankaj Mittal (23166-L) F(P) was commissioned as a Fighter pilot in the Flying branch of Indian Air Force on 17 Dec 94. He is presently posted at Tactics and Air Combat Development Establishment (TACDE) as Commandant. He is a graduate of the Defence Services Staff College, a Fighter Strike Leader and a Pilot Attack Instructor. He has 3000 hours of accident free fighter flying and is Fully Operational on Jaguar, Su-30 MKI, MiG-27 (ML and Upgrade), Bison and MiG-21 Bis ac. He has served as Fit Cdr of a Bison Squadron (Sqn) and the Commanding Officer (CO) of a Jaguar Sqn. He has served as a Directing Staff as well as Dy Comdt at TACDE. As CO by his personal involvement and sound leadership, he build up a highly professional team, achieving high degree of excellence. Under his command the Sqn was adjudged best fighter Sqn of HO CAC for the year 2012-13. As Commandant TACDE, he was instrumental in developing various tactical profiles for all combat and combat support streams. Under his guidance the Estb made concrete efforts to reach out and disseminate tactics to various filed operators of different streams by going to field units and Commands. Combat Employment Manuals, Operational Manuals, Briefing guides and Standard Operating Procedures for all fleets and combat elements were evolved and forwarded to various agencies. This enhanced the Operational (Op) orientation and capability of all streams tremendously. He also successfully conducted the 5th Composite Graduate Course. Fresh syllabus keeping in mind the changing op scenario was made to ensure higher degree of op focus. Many innovations were carried out to increase1he training value. The Estb also contributed to the Air Force level Ex- Livewire. He was also instrumental in training various IAF contingents before an international exercise. Under his command the Establishment also conducted various developmental exercises so as to obtain tactical solutions for the IAF. By his involvement, he has synergized and integrated the Estb with the COBRA Group, Electronic Warfare Range and the Aggressor Sqn. He has contributed on a variety of Op issues to other Commands and Air HOs. The Establishment was awarded the Chief of Air Staff 'Unit Citation' for Op support role under his command in 2016. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Pankaj Mittal VM. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Sandeep Choudhary 23720 F(P) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 18 | Announced 26 Jan 18 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Sandeep Choudhary (23720-L) F(P) was commissioned as a fighter pilot in the Flying branch of Indian Air Force on 16 Dec 95. He is presently serving at Air Headquarters in the Directorate of Air Staff Inspection (DASI). A Fighter Strike Leader with over 2500 hours of flying, he has served as Directing Staff at the prestigious Tactics and Air Combat Development Establishment where he has co-authored the first book on 'Beyond Visual Range' Combat. He was flight Commander of a Su-30 MKI Squadron and has commanded a frontline Mig-27ML Squadron. As Flight Commander and Commanding Officer, he ensured a safe flying environment without compromising on quality or quantity of flying. As a flying team inspector of DASI, the officer was responsible for inspecting and evaluating the operational readiness status of fighter units. While discharging his duties he displayed utmost sincerity and good operational orientation resulting in effective audits of the combat units. As part of the recently concluded pan IAF exercise, his operational appreciation was adjudged to be the best. He was also instrumental in preparing the debrief module forthe table top portion of the Exercise. As an umpire during the exercise, he was part of the analysis team which worked to draw out important lessons for IAF. He has prepared a research paper of a very high order as a prelude to the upcoming IAF exercise in 2017-2018. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Sandeep Choudhary. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Mugda Venkat Sridhar 23864 AE(M) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 18 | Announced 26 Jan 18 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Mugda Venkat Sridhar (23864-R) AE(M) was commissioned in the technical branch of Indian Air Force on 27 Nov 95. He is presently posted as Chief Engineering Officer (CEO) of a fighter base in the Eastern Sector since 27 Jun 16. The officer is an outstanding professional who has contributed immensely in operations maintenance, induction and training of Su-30 ac throughout his career. He was selected for first Indian training course on Su-30K ac. During his tenures at Su-30K Sqn and Tech Flight, he participated in Op Parakaram and Exercises with foreign Air Forces in India and abroad. He effectively contributed in buy back contract process of Su-30K aircraft for which he was commended by the CAS IAF. He was deputed to Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) for training its personnel. The innovative training paradigms developed by him found pan-RMAF implementation. He was appreciated by the Chief of RMAF. Thereafter, he was posted as Senior Engineer (Aircraft) of a fighter wing. The implementation of improvised maintenance processes led to high serviceability and Nil HE(S). As CEO, the officer has grasped the essentials of the challenge and devised a prognostic roadmap. Creating an environment of self help approach, he molded his team into a self believing group with result oriented KRAs. His domain mapping based Skill and Knowledge Improvement Plan yielded proficient workers and supervisors. This coupled with astute man, material and process management reduced various aircraft servicing periods by 30 to 40% resulting in increase and consistent sustenance of high ac serviceability and concomitant flying at much higher levels than the IAF average which in turn directly enhanced the war waging capability of IAF. He has formulated core aviation maintenance values which greatly contributed to NIL accident/ incident due HE(S). His unrelenting focus on innovative thinking led to many maintainability enhancers like new booklets, Panel Crib, Documentation Clinic and several innovations that aided work flow along with improved flight and maintenance safety. His focused and consistent efforts have led to qualitative improvements in MT, ASVs and Weapon storage and handling equipments. DASI has adjudged the revamped maintenance sections as Average Plus. The CAS and AOC-in-C their recent visits to the station have highly appreciated the efforts put in various facets of maintenance. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Mugda Venkat Sridhar. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Wg Cdr | Manoj Kumar Sharma 24675 AE(L) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 18 | Announced 26 Jan 18 | |
| Details : |  Wing Commander Manoj Kumar Sharma (24675-T) AE(L) was commissioned into the technical branch of the Indian Air Force on 26 May 97. He is currently the Commanding Officer of 51 Assam Air (Technical) Squadron NCC, which is primarily entrusted with the responsibility of training cadets of Assam and two districts of Arunachal Pradesh. During his career, Wing Commander Manoj Kumar Sharma tenanted various field appointments including as an instructor at No. 8 RADAR TETTRA School, Flight Commander (RADAR) at Air Force Station Tuglakabad, STO of Guided Weapon and Radar units and Chief Engineering Officer at an Air Force Base. He is a qualified "Operational cum Maintenance crew" in "Surface to Air Guided Weapons" as Guidance Officer and Battery Commander. The officer had played a key role in the induction of the new 'Rohini' Radar by utilising his experience as a Senior Technical Officer. He is also trained in Unmanned Aerial Vehicle. As CO, Assam NCC, he has been entrusted with the responsibilities of training of NCC Cadets of not only Assam but also remotely located areas of Arunachal Pradesh. His inspirational leadership, selfless diligence and humane dealings have given a new direction and impetus to the Unit, otherwise constrained on many fronts due to multiple functional and administrative controls. The initiative and acumen displayed by him in bringing about symbiotic co-operation with civil administration, Institute faculties for grooming the NCC Cadets has been commendable. He has been instrumental in promoting "Digital India" concept and cashless transactions in the unit and amongst the NCC cadets thereby ensuring transparency. He has brought about automation in the unit functioning and has been instructing the NCC cadets with lectures by distinguished guests. He has brought about a radical transformation in the outlook, mindset and level of fulfillment in the minds of the faculty and cadets of the North East, which is truly praiseworthy. He has undertaken a number of Social service and Community development awareness campaigns in his area of responsibility by greater participation of cadets, civilian and Govt establishments, which has contributed in its own way of the integration of Indian Armed Forces with the people of North East. Under his visionary leadership, foresight and meticulous planning, all tasks and challenges were handled in a proactive fashion thereby delivering sterling results. For distinguished service of high order Hon'ble President is pleased to award, Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Manoj Kumar Sharma. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
The Awards Database presented here was made possible by the kind generosity of Air Marshal Bharat Kumar, author of Courage & Devotion to Duty : A Chronicle of IAF's Honours and Awards (1932-2008). Air Marshal Bharat Kumar had very graciously given permission to reproduce the citations from the book on this website.
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