During the operations against Pakistan in December, 1971, Wing Commander Keshava Dev Kanagat was commanding a Maritime Reconnaissance Squadron. The work of maritime reconnaissance, search sighting and reporting and guidance carried out by the Squadron In close cooperation with the Indian Navy was of very vital importance to the Naval operations and contributed considerably towards the success of Naval operations both in the Western and Eastern Sectors. He carried out the maximum number and most hazardous missions himself and was a source of inspiration and courage lo his aircrew. It was largely due to him that the squadron carried out all maritime operations assigned to it successfully.

Throughout, Wing Commander Keshava Dev Kanagat displayed courage, professional skill and devotion to duty.

Air Commodore Keshava Dev Kanagat VM (4433) Flying (Pilot) was commissioned in Indian Air Force in January, 1953. During his career he carried out 7400 hours of accident free flying, commanded a multiengined transport Squadron and held variety of staff appointments at Command and Air Headquarters. During the Indo Pak War 1971, Air Commodore Kanagat led his squadron with great courage and distinction and flew many hazardous missions for which he was awarded 'Vayu Seva Medal'.

He took over the Command of No. 10 Wing in January, 1983, when the two Dakota Squadrons based there were slated to be wound down in April 1984 and the station was to prepare itself for simultaneous induction of AN-32 aircraft. It is against this background that he set himself to achieve the two major tasks viz. firstly to sustain the serviceability and tempo of flying on the ageing Dakota fleet and secondly to prepare the station for induction of AN-32, involving setting up of new training facilities, maintenance support and reorientation of operational procedures.

By his personal example and leadership he succeeded in inspiring the aircrew of the station in reposing their continuous confidence in the ageing fleet and exceeding their maintenance task by 22 tons. He associated himself keenly with maintenance activities on the station, guiding and inspiring the maintenance personnel and to make 100% Dakota aircraft on base airworthy on four occasions during the year.

Under the overall directions of Air Commodore Kanagat, the excellent performance shown by the vintage fleet, influenced the Air Force to reconsider the date of its phasing out and extend its life by another year. While the flying activity of the station was being revitalized, he continuously reviewed and revamped the administration of the Wing which was kept in pace with the overall Air Force requirements.

Air Commodore Kanagat has displayed outstanding qualities of leadership by achieving a high level of operational efficiency and readiness of an operational base. The Station under his stewardship was awarded the trophy for best administered station in Eastern Air Command.

Air Commodore Keshava Dev Kanagat VM has, thus, rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.