Squadron Leader Prafullkumar Manohar Velankar while on the posted strength of one of the Base Repair Depot since 5 Dec 78 has been flight testing Kiran, Gnat and Ajeet aircraft.

During his tenure at this Depot Sqn Ldr Velankar has flown a total of 646.25 hours in flight testing of various types of aircraft. He has had an accident­free record during this time. He has also displayed cool professional competence in the handling of emergencies in the air when he experienced flame-outs on Gnats on three separate occasions, one flameout on Kiran at 5000 feet and one incident of Gnat canopy unlocking in the air. On each occasion he has competently taken the correct emergency action and safely landed the aircraft He has throughout displayed exemplary professionalism and zeal in his job.

He has flown 278 sorties/165.45 hours on Kiran Flight testing during the last nine months in addition to flying on other types of aircraft. He has been meticulous in his testing and has insisted on the highest standards of serviceability before clearing an aircraft. It is a matter of pride that ferry pilots from operating units have accepted all the aircraft cleared by Sqn Ldr Velankar with virtually no observations. For his extremely high professional competence, hard work and outstanding devotion to duty in the best traditions of the service, the President is pleased to award VAYU SENA MEDAL to Squadron Leader Prafulkumar Manohar Velankar.