Air Marshal Kuldip Rai was commissioned as a Doctor on 28 Feb 61. The Air Officer has flown over 600 hrs on trainer aircraft and is a pioneer in the field of Aviation Medicine. He obtained a PG Diploma, and an MD in Aviation Medicine. He was appointed professor of Aviation Medicine under Bangalore University. He carried out over 25 Research Projects at Institute of Aviation Medicine (IAM) and was responsible for assessment and approval of indigenous anti-G suits for the fighter pilots.

During his tenure as Commandant, IAM, he was instrumental in upgrading the Simulator and introduction of a pattern of training for pilots flying Air Superiority Fighters to enhance their +Gz tolerance. He was the coordinator of the Commonwealth Aeronautics Research Council and also Indo­Soviet cooperation Programme in Space Medicine under the aegis of ICMR.

Air Marshal Kuldip Rai, during his tenure as principal Medical Officer, Training Command, has devoted his efforts towards improvements in the Professional Standards of Medical and Nursing Officers. Through his personal involvement, he has brought about substantial savings in local purchase of Medical Stores at all Stations and hospitals under Training Command.

Air Marshal Kuldip Rai has thus rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.