Wing Commander Kondaiah Rampati was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in Nov 62. An engineering officer of a proven capability he has undergone Defence Service Staff College course at Wellington. For three years he served with distinction as Senior Technical Instructor at Air Force Technical College. Since Dec 79, he is posted as Chief Engineering Officer at a major transport base.

During his tenure as CEO, he maintained the serviceability of the aircraft at his base at an average of 62% in 1980 and 52% in 1981 as against the target of 50%. On 29 Dec 80, one of the Squadron flew all 16 of their aircraft while the other Squadron had 15 out of 16 aircraft in serviceable condition. The CEO had to consistently guide his officers and staff in achieving this feat. He studied the problem of aero engines having large failure of cylinders. With great determination and zeal he introduced series of checks and servicing for timely detection of weak areas in the engine. As a result of this a large number of cylinder failures were detected on ground which otherwise would have created serious emergencies in the air. The Wing earned the distinction of nil accident rate during the year 1981. He inspired all his officers and men a sense of participation in achieving this herculean task. During the IAF Golden Jubilee Celebrations, in Feb 82 he organised the Air Static Display which was a grand success. For the initiative, dedication to duty in the discharge of his duties, the President is pleased to award V1SH- ISHT SEVA MEDAL to Wing Commander Kondaiah Rampati.