AIR VICE MARSHAL SATYA PAL SHAHI, (1601) ADM : Prior to, and during the December, 1971 conflict with Pakistan, Air Vice Marshal Satya Pal Shahi had to bear very heavy administrative responsibilities, which he had discharged most successfully. Operational plans required the setting up of additional facilities at a number of forward airfields, and there was a requirement for large increases in manpower at all operational stations. His judicious allocation of the additional manpower, made available to his Command, ensured that all operational units had the personnel they needed to fulfil their tasks. He also took steps to ensure that the organisational set up by Air Headquarters for emergency repairs of airfields would function smoothly at all the Wings within the Command. In the event, his efforts enabled airfields damaged by enemy action during night raids to be made fit for use by surprise the following morning. The close liaison he esta- blished with State Governments to ensure unbroken power supply to operational bases, and augmentation as security arrangements proved most effective. During the hostilities, he personally visited every forward airfield and outlying unit to ensure the smooth running of the administrative machinery parallel with the conduct of operations. This effort on his part had a significant effect on the morale of personnel and their families. In sum, the administrative arrangements for which he worked so hard and efficiently had a direct contributory effect on the success of air operations. With his high professional competence, dedication to duty, zeal and enthusiasm, Air Vice Marshal Shahi rendered distinguished service of a most exceptional order.