| Group Captain Rajagopal Sitaraman (14713) Administration was commissioned on 29 Dec 1976 in the Administrative branch of the IAF. During his 28 years of service he has held important field and staff appointments which include Secretary, Central Airmen Selection Board, Senior Administrative Officer of a Flying Base, Command Works Officer at Maintenance Command and Deputy Director of Works at Air HQ. He has completed Long Defence Management Course (LDMC). He has been awarded commendation by the CAS. Presently, he is posted to a major Fighter Base as Chief Administrative Officer with effect from 15 Jul 2002. Since his commissioning, he has been demonstrating his professional approach and acumen while handling key portfolios entrusted to him. As the Secretary, Central Airmen Selection Board, he amply contributed towards planning, execution and implementation of automation of recruitment procedures. This earned the appreciation and commendation by Chief of the Air Staff in 1989. In Air HQ, as the Director Personnel (Officer), he was one of the officers instrumental in formulating the appraisal policy and revision of AR Forms. As Command Works Officer at Maintenance Command, he meticulously handled budgetary issues, critical land encroachment cases and the prestigious Mirage Engine Overhaul Project at Kanpur. As Chief Administrative Officer, the administrative support provided under the guidance of Gp Capt Sitaraman enabled the flawless conduct of the first ever joint IndoFrench exercise Ex-'GARUDA' in Feb 03. He also formulated a SOP for conduct of such exercises. The SOP was highly appreciated by Command HQ and was circulated to other Stations as guidelines. Planning and ensuring timely completion of works services has been the forte of Gp Capt Sitaraman. By applying his professional and administrative skill, he has enabled improvement of the quality of life at the Base. In Feb 2004, the Base was again tasked for conducting a joint Indo US Exercise. Once again he exhibited his high professional competence and organizational skills in ensuring the successful conduct of the exercise. For his distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Rajagopal Sitaraman. | 
