Wing Commander Kanjithanda Bopanna Karumbaya (18074) F (P) was commissioned into the IAF on 06 Dec 85 and has been on the posted strength of the Dte of Air Staff Inspection wef 12 Jul 04. The officer has approximately 3000 h of active fighter flying and has flown almost all the fighter aircraft on the IAF inventory. He has an accident free, flight safety record and is the recipient of the 'Three Star' flight safety award. He had commanded a frontline Fighter Squadron and served as a Directing Staff at TACDE.

The professional record of the officer has been outstanding. He was adjudged 'Best in Flying' and 'Best in Aerobatics' during his basic training. In MOFTU, he was adjudged 'Best in Ground Subjects' and 'Best Overall'. During the FCL course he was adjudged the 'Best FCL' and 'Best in Instructional'. In his Staff College entrance exam he stood First in the order of merit and has undergone the Staff Course at Joint Services Command and Staff College, UK. While he commanded the Sqn, his Sqn was adjudged 'Above Average' in Air Operations.

The officer has contributed immensely to raise the professional standards of the IAF. While being posted as staff at TACDE he was involved in various weapon trials and tactics development. With his wide-ranging experience on Air Defence as well as Ground Attack aircraft, he is the backbone of the flying inspection team. With his analytical approach he has rendered many practical recommendations, which have been accepted and factored in the macro planning of the IAF. His critical analysis of problems in the field related to flying, maintenance, weak aircrew management; environment has enabled the IAF to take timely corrective actions. During Aug 06, he has presented a paper on measure of combat potential of IAF. Recommendations of this paper has been utilised towards deriving important force structure analysis. The officer was instrumental in the conduct of an important AF level exercise during Sep 06 and gleaning out valuable lesson for the IAF. The officer's professional ability and competence stands out.

For his outstanding achievements in fighter operations, invaluable contributions to the service and distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Kanjithanda Bopanna Karumbaya.