Squadron Leader Thakur Singh Datta was commissioned on 28 Jun 69 and has since then held various important field and staff appointments. The officer has a distinguished record of professionalism in the field of Air Defence.

The officer achieved category 'A' as a fighter controller and was posted as an instructor in Air Defence College. During the period of four years in the college, he was actively involved in the training of a large number of fighter controllers from friendly foreign countries. With his total devotion to duty and exceptional professional skill he was instrumental in enhancing the prestige of our air Force in the eyes of foreign student officers. For his exceptional devotion, he was commended by AOC-in-C No. 1 (Opl) Group in Jun 74 and by the Chief of the Air Staff in Aug 77.

He was posted to the Air Defence Section of an operational Command in Mar 83. In October 1983, he headed a team of fighter controllers to carry out low level interception trials catering to the specific needs of fighter controllers. He was involved in a number of other evaluation trials in operational fields where his contribution was substantial and praiseworthy. In December, 1983, he prepared the Command Air Defence Compendium which was appreciated at all levels. In Jan 85, he was given the task of revising the old Command Air Staff Instruction on Air Defence Ground Environment System, which he accomplished with great personal involvement and extreme devotion.

In recognition of his exceptional devotion to duty, commendable professional competence, initiative and drive, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Squadron Leader Thakur Singh Datta.