The services of Group Captain Kailash Chand were loaned to the Government of Republic of Indonesia in 1959. On his arrival, the Minister/C-in-C AURI (Indonesian Air Force) appointed him as an adviser/member of the Auri Reorganisation Committee as well as entrusted him with the task of preparing its expansion plan. With his characteristic efficiency and foresight, Gp Capt Chand soon produced a plan well related and integrated with the reÂÂequipment programme of the Auri which was then changing to Russian aircraft and equipment. While devising steps to implement the plan, on of the major difficulties he faced was the inadequate training facilities in Indonesia. Gp Capt Chand along with other officers of his team set up selection organizations, established training institutions and worked out their syllabus of service and academic studies. These flourishing institutions are a tribute to his exceptional organizing ability, enthusiasm, zeal and hard work. For the highly specialized trades for which technical facilities could not be locally procured, he formulated schemes under which Auri personnel were trained in India. The training in India of over 2000 Auri personnel is an achievement of considerable significance, especially in the face of very severe rivalries of various other countries having an interest in the military setÂÂup of Indonesia. Gp Capt Chand and the team of officers under his able guidance progressively prepared Auri underÂÂstudies to take over the staff school which the IAF Advisory Group had established. This was done after all the instructional pamphlets, directives, doctrine, operational exercises and detailed manuals had been compiled and translated in Bhasa Indonesia. Apart from raising this institution to a full-fledged staff college, this officer was instrumental in setting up from scratch a Navigational School in 1962. The success of these assignments was in no small measure due to the planning ability, initiative, and leadership displayed by Gp Capt Chand. In fact, the present organisation of Auri, which is modeled on the IAF pattern, is a visible proof of the strong and perceptible influence which this officer exercised. His untiring efforts for the expansion and consolidation of the Auri were greatly appreciated by the Indonesian Government and press; and these contributions earned for the IAF the gratitude of the Indonesian authorities. The Air Agreement for technical cooperation between the Air Forces of two Asian countries was entirely a new experiment. Its success largely depended upon the skill, tact and personal leadership of the individuals who were responsible to implement it. Gp Capt Chand showed these sterling qualities in abundant measure and gained completely the confidence of the Auri. His frank and friendly approach and advice on all problems was always appreciated. His sense of dedication, tireless energy and example of hard work inspired others under his command. The existing close relations between IAF and Auri bear ample testimony to the excellent work of this Officer which has throughout been highly commended by the Indonesian authorities. Group Captain Kailash Chand has, thus, rendered distinguished service of a most exceptional order. |