Flight Lieutenant Mukul Ekka was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in June 180. He was posted to 41 Squadron in December 1980 and has been flying the Otter since then.

On 21 Nov 86 Flt Lt Mukul Ekka experienced an engine failure while flying over inhospitable desert terrain full of sand dunes. With his professional judgment and skills he glided the aircraft to the only available stretch of land beside a village and executed a flawless landing saving the life of a passenger on board and civilian property. The aircraft, too, was absolutely undamaged.

On 29 Jan 87, he again had an engine failure while on a cross country flight. One of the cylinders of the engine has burst and the cockpit was filled with dense white smoke. In spite of the adverse conditions, with commendable competence and judgment he executed a perfect force landing besides a river bed, saving the aircraft from any further damage. On both occasions the selection of force landing sites was praiseworthy as it facilitated work on the aircraft and the aircraft were successfully flown back to base after engine changes at the sites. The officer has thus exhibited his tenacity, courage and exemplary self- discipline both in the air and on the ground.

For his continued exceptional of performance of duties and remarkable professional skill, the president is pleased to sward Vayu Sena Medal to Flt Lt Mukul Ekka.

Wing Commander Vipin Indira Padmanabhan Nayar (16829) F (P) was commissioned on 04 Jun 1982 in the Flying Branch of the IAF. In his distinguished career, he has held several important appointments, including instructional appointments at the NDA and FTEs, Flight Commander, Command Examiner and Air Force Examiner at the Aircrew Examination Board.

Wing Commander Vipin has epitomized professionalism and leadership on many occasions. While in an AN-32 Squadron, he recovered an aircraft and its occupant to safe landing by his remarkable professionalism when it suffered the failure of a critical engine in the Siachen Glacier. For this he was awarded Commendation by the CAS.

The quality of training to his Sqn pilots was instrumental in the Sqn winning the 'Best Transport Sqn' Trophy. In recognition of his commitment, utmost dedication and devotion he was awarded the Commendation by the CAS again in 1999. Wg Cdr Vipin assumed command of a Tpt Sqn in May 2001. Under the able steward ship, the Sqn won the trophy for the 'Best Tpt Sqn' in Western Air Command. With his professionalism, and skilful guidance, he provided exemplary leadership and motiva tion to the Sqn personnel to bring out their best despite manning constraints. The achievements in maintenance practices, innovations in technical eqpt and resources management stand testimony to his commitment to the IAF. Wg Cdr Vipin not only practices 'Service before Self', but also inculcates the same in men he commands.

For distinguished service of exceptional order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vayu Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Vipin Indira Padmanabhan Nayar.