Wing Commander Pankaj Mohan Sinha (17842) F (P) was commissioned on 14 Jun 85. He is presently posted to Air HQ (DPO) as the JDPO-l (F). He is a A-2 QFI, Fighter Strike Leader and IRIE. He is the graduate of DSSC and has undergone the Air Weapons Controllers Courses and bagged two trophies at DSSC. He was awarded the 'Top Graduate' in the course at USA. He has served as a DS at TACDE.

The officer commanded a fighter Sqn from 11 Nov 02 to 19 Jul 04. His personal involvement and sound leadership had enabled the Sqn to achieve a high degree of excellence. Due to runway re-surfacing at parent base, the Sqn Operated for more than a year at Purnea. Fighter flying was carried out for the first time from this base. The Sqn under his leadership set up the flying operations at the base and conducted full fledged operations with limited support services. Notwiths tanding the trying circumstances, the Sqn was selected from EAC to participate in the 'Best Fighter Sqn' competition for 2004-05. DASI particularly commented upon the high espirit-de-corps and cohesiveness of the Sqn during the Vayu Spradha competition.

In his present appointment as the JDPO 1 (F), he has utilized his vast experience to bring about a quantum change in the area of human resource management, He has balanced the service requirements and individual needs in a mature manner. He has flawlessly conducted the Sqn Cdrs and Flt Cdrs Board and lateral communication with all Op-directorates, which has greatly enhanced the quality of staff work and has worked with commitment towards career planning of junior officers. With his deep understanding of Flying Operations and Flying Safety, he initiated the process for placement of SFSIOs by selection/merit. This has been greatly appreciated by the organi zation, since this would have a salutary effect on Flight Safety management. The officer has been instrumental in formulating the Human Resource Policy for Weapon System Operators and for induction of UAV pilots. He has provided valuable inputs through research and his own knowledge. Recently he underwent a course at Joint Forces Staff College in USA, wherein he earned laudatory evaluations from the Directing Staff. The course report especially remarked upon his exceptional oral and written communication skills, outstanding leadership and high degree of professionalism.

For his distinguished service of a high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Pankaj Mohan Sinha.