Squadron Leader Pritam Singh joined the Indian Air Force as an airman on 22 November, 1943. He was commissioned in the Administrative Branch on 30 December 1959.

His first tenure was a Fighter Controller from March 1960 to August 1963 at a Signals Unit in the most active sector in Punjab. Whilst at Air Headquarters, he dedicated himself to his task whole heartedly and contributed a great deal to the consolidation of Air Defence System of number of Signals Units integration of Surface-to-Air Guided Weapons and the formulation and issue of Air Defence Air Staff Instructions, directives, procedures and connected Air Publications.

Throughout his service career, Squadron Leader Pritam Singh has displayed high sense of loyalty, exemplary devotion to duty and a high level of professional knowledge and skill.

In recognition of the distinguished service of a high order rendered by Squadron Leader Pritam Singh the President is pleased to award him Vishisht Seva Medal.

Wing Commander Kunnathidathil Sanjeevan (5615) Aeronautical Engineering (Mechanical) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in November, 1958. After passing out of Air Force Technical College as a triple trophy winner, he had held appointments as Engineering officer/Flight Engineer in fighter, helicopter and transport Squadrons. Subsequently he underwent the Defence Services Staff College Course and the Senior Technical Officers' Management Course wherein he was the winner of the Harjinder Trophy for having stood first in the course. During 1970-74, he held the appointment of Staff Officer (Tech) to three successive Air Officers-in-Charge Maintenance. At present, he is serving as Deputy Director of Engineering at Air Headquarters. As Deputy Director Engineering at Air Headquarters, Wing Commander Sanjeevan has consistently displayed singular drive and professional acumen in solving numerous problems connected with the Maintenance and operation of a type of aircraft resulting in substantial improvement in reliability of engine and appreciable reduction in failure rate.

There were two incidents of runway propeller on the type. The pilot abandoned take off and managed to stop the aircraft just in time in both cases. Air Maintenance operations with the type were, therefore, immediately suspended as a precautionary measure.

A specialist from Manufacturers was called for, who carried out detailed investigations into both these incidents. However, he could not arrive at any definite conclusion with regard to the cause for these two malfunctions. Wing Commander Sanjeevan was detailed as Leader of the Team to carry out further investigation into these two incidents. As a result of his meticulous investigations based on an exhaustive analysis of all information pertaining to the incidents, it was possible to establish the cause of malfunction beyond any doubt. Quality Control Specialist of the firm agreed with the solutions arrived at and commended him for his investigating ability. As a result, the morale of the aircrew operating the type has been raised significantly and resumption of operation for air maintenance tasks has been made possible.

With his devotion to duty and complete involvement in his profession Wing Commander Kunnathidathil Sanjeevan has rendered distinguished service of a high order, for which Rashtrapati is pleased to award him Vishisht Seva Medal.

Wing Commander Vilampil Gopal was posted to Air Headquarters on 27 Jun 77 as a Deputy Director. He was responsible for the maintenance of Kiran (HJT-16), HT-2, Krishak and Devon aircraft fleets, for both technical and logistics activities. Kiran aircraft is an indigenous aircraft which has several problems associated with a newly inducted aircraft. As against this, HT-2, Krishak and Devon are vintage aircraft and have innumerable problems because of their old age. Further, due to shortage of staff, the provisioning reviews were in arrears and the serviceability of the fleet was very low.

With concerted efforts and meticulous attention to details, Wing Commander Gopal was able to overcome the shortcomings in the provisioning and supply of the maintenance and overhaul spares which directly contributed to the improvement of serviceability and reduced AOG percentages. By his personal example, he imbued enthusiasm in the officers and staff working under him and guided them in their day-to-day work. It was due to his sustained hard work in providing the product support to the BRDs, that the production at the repair agencies of all the aircraft, aeroengines and rotables showed considerable improvement. The very close and timely attention to the defects and their investigation paid by him made a significant contribution to flight safety in respect of these aircraft which are handled by ab initio pilots.

In the years 1977-78, the serviceability of the Iskra fleet was adversely affected. As a result a lot of extra load of pilot training was put on the Kiran aircraft. It was only because of Wing Commander Gopal's devotion to duty much beyond the normal requirements, that it was possible to meet the extra commitment, without any break in training. With his industry and hard work for long hours, unmindful of personal considerations, in spite of continued shortage of staff, he was able to bring up the maintenance preparedness of the aircraft fleets entrusted to him, to a highly commendable level,

For his keenness, devotion to duty and sense of responsibility, Rashtrapati is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Vilampil Gopal.

Wing Commander Balchandra Ganesh Chitnis was commissioned in the Logistics Branch of the Indian Air Force on 4 Aug 56. During this period he has held various Staff appointments at Command and Air Headquarters.

In Oct 78, he took over the duties of Deputy Director (POL) at Air Headquarters. This Deputy Director deals with the provisioning and supply of all items of petroleum, oil and lubricants as well as compressed gases. Since the range of material is vital for the operation of Air Force, it is of paramount importance that constant vigil is kept on the availability of adequate stocks and no effort is spared to avert low stock situation which may be determinal to the operational preparedness of Air Force.

When Wing Commander Chitnis took over his duties, the country was in the grip of severe fuel crisis and consequently supply of aviation fuels at Air Force airfields was adversely affected.

Wing Commander Chitnis was quick on to grasp the gravity of the situation and though beyond the call of normal duty, formulated plans for movement of fuels from Refineries and Port Installations of Indian Oil Corporation to various Air Force airfields. This task involved deciding upon the production levels of the Refineries, firming up the targets for movement of rail tank wagons and arranging alternative modes of conveyance viz. tank trucks, barrels etc. for effective and purposeful planning and its execution. He took timely and sustained action at all levels to ensure fuel stocks at our strategic airfields remained within acceptable limits and operational preparedness was not impaired due to inadequacy of fuel stocks. Because of his single minded, persistent and relentless efforts, supply situation of Aviation Turbine Fuel, used by all combat aircraft gradually improved.

With the diligence, vivid imagination, mature judgment, sense of perception, sound pragmatic approach and total dedication, Wing Commander Balchandra Ganesh Chitnis has rendered distinguished service. For this Rashtrapati is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Balchandra Ganesh Chitnis.

Wing Commander Sham Rao was commissioned in the year 1961 and having held various assignments in different types of units with outstanding professional competence, he graduated from the DSSC in 1973. He served as SO to the CI (Air) for about 2½ years prior to his posting to the Directorate of Financial Planning in Aug 77. He took over the job of Assistant Director (Cost Analysis) at time when draft plan 1979-84 was being formulated. He very ably contended with the intricacies of the planning process and contributed significantly in the making of the plan and its formulation by the target date. He also very ably assisted in the preparation of briefs to the Committee of Defence Planning and provided the justifications for many on going and new schemes and the necessity for resources allocations.

In the preparation of rolling plan 1980-85 and annual plan 1980-81, he again displayed outstanding initiative and completed the difficult task which covered acquisition cost of major weapon systems with different mix and varying payment patterns in record time. He devised the format and procedure for monitoring both physical and the financial progress of approved schemes from various sponsoring and procuring agencies as a result of which the progress in the implementation of the plan and review of approved schemes could be effectively monitored.

The introduction of costing of courses at Aircraft & Systems Testing Establishment, a very complicated process, was also done under his guidance. In addition, rational allocation of overheads on different courses being run at training institutions was made possible only through his professional competence.

He has been responsible for the scrutiny of various price proposals of HAL products and through incisive scrutiny substantial savings in the areas of Dakota servicing, HS748 for photo-survey role, RMS orders for spares were identified.

For his distinguished services of a very high order Rashtrapati is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Sham Rao.

Wing Commander Kapil Kak was commissioned in the Flying (Navigator) branch of the Indian Air Force in Nov 62. He served with distinction as a Navigator in transport and bomber Squadron and lastly in Air Headquarters Communication Squadron where aircrew with proven merit are posted. Till date he has flown 4580 hours and for his flying proficiency he had held transport category 'A' an exceptional achievement for a transport aircrew.

He successfully graduated from Defence Services Staff College in Nov 75. In view of his excellent record as VVIP/VIP aircrew, in Jun 78, he was selected to take up the duties of DD OPS (VIP) in the Dte of Ops (T&M) at Air Headquarters. In this appointment he was assigned an exacting task of complete reorganization of the VIPs' Cell with a view to streamline its functioning. By dint of sheer hard work, resourcefulness and deep professional knowledge, he rose to the occasion and in short span of time he was able to give a face-lift to the VIPs' Cell.

Planning and coordination of VVIP/VIP Flights involve liaison with civil/service agencies at various levels. It is largely a measure of his personal tact, organizing ability, purposeful intelligence and dedicated hard work that all VVIP/VIP commitments were carried out to complete satisfaction of his superiors. The officer had to put in 15 to 18 hours of work a day to organize VVIP/VIP flights, particularly during Lok Sabha/Assembly elections held in the last two years. To arrange a VVIP flight involving both fixed wing aircraft and helicopters and entailing activation of as many as 15 to 17 helipads on a single day. With cool determination, exemplary zeal and unflinching devotion to duty, he was able to accomplish the task creditably. Some of his noticeable achievements in the Dte are appended below:- a. During the last three years, flying effort devoted towards VVIP/VIP flights has increased by 20%. From 3100 in 1976 the effort increased to 3900 hours in 1979. Wing Commander Kak handled the increased commitments with requisite professional skill and utmost confidence. b. The entire procedure for obtaining, processing and forwarding the special flight return for the VVIP/VIP flights has been rationalized. c. He has made significant contribution in identifying suitable replacement for TU-124 aircraft in Air Headquarters Communication Squadron and also in determining the Standard of Preparation for AN-32 (the proposed METAC). *Name as it appears in the Gazette is Kapila Kak - the original name of the Officer. d. Considerable staff action has been put in by him to have the necessary modification done on Mi-8 helicopters for undertaking VVIP/VIP flights.

Throughout, Wing Commander Kapil Kak has displayed remarkable sense of duty, singular intelligence and professional competence of a very high order. By his personal example and relentless enthusiasm he has won for him the confidence of his superiors and willing support of his subordinates. For his distinguished service of a very high order, Rashtrapati is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Kapil Kak.

Squadron Leader Shamir Choudhuri was commissioned in Indian Air Force on 18 Nov 64. He has been on posted strength of Directorate of Plans at Air Headquarters as Asstt Director, Forecasting and Planning from Nov 77 to Jun 79 and thereafter has been working as assistant Director Admin Plans with added responsibilities.

While working as Asstt Director, Forecasting and Planning along with other duties he was required to progress a complicated legal case for release of certain aircraft purchased by Indian Air Force but impounded under court orders in a foreign country. This case on behalf of Govt of India was taken by the Addl Solicitor General and the officer was required to brief and provide required information on behalf of Indian Air Force. This complicated task which was performed by Squadron Leader Choudhuri in a most commendable manner and it was his hard work that went a long way in getting case decided in favour of the Govt.

As Asstt Director, Admin Plans, he is responsible for progressing cases for formation, disbandment of non flying units, KLP of Indian Air Force and War Wastage Reserves. During this period he was given a very important and responsible task of preparation of cases for upgradation of selection grade posts and sanction of substantive cadre posts for Indian Air Force officers. Squadron Leader Choudhuri completed these tasks by his direct involvement, keenness, professional knowledge and most important of all, his ability and willingness to work hard.

In view of his ability and expertise, he was entrusted with the task of Cadre Review for the Indian Air Force as ordered by the Govt of India. The Cadre Review cases involved preparation of statistical data, graphs and charts in respect of three Services to justify increases in the Selection Grade ranks. The Cadre Review was being progressed at the highest level and top priority due to its impact on the morale of the Armed Forces. Squadron Leader Choudhuri accepted this challenge and completed the task entrusted to him.

Throughout his tenure of duty Squadron Leader Shamir Choudhuri has displayed highest professional ability, initiative, zeal and steadfast devotion to duty with complete disregard to his own personal comfort. He has thus rendered distinguished service of a very high order, for which Rashtrapati is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to him.

Squadron Leader Prabhu Singh was commissioned in the year 1965 and passed out from the college standing first in the course. After successfully holding of various appointments like SATCO, Stn Adjutant, Deputy Camp Commandant etc. he has been posted as the Secretary of Central Vista AF Officer's Mess since July 1977.

Central Vista AF Officers' Mess is the premier officers' mess of the Air Force having a membership of almost a thousand officers including a large number of very senior ones. Apart from managing the affairs of about 100 to 150 living in officers, he has to cater to the needs of a large membership and run an institution in a manner befitting the unique position it holds. With unflinching loyalty, determination and single minded devotion to duty, he has been able not only to handle the affairs of the mess with commendable management skill but also effect all-round improvement in the various aspects of administration.

The officer took over his duties when the mess was passing through a difficult time and he was able to set things in order by clearing the arrears and bringing the accounts uptodate. With his sound financial acumen, he has been able to affect various economies in the mess expenditure as a result of which the general mess fund increased from Rs. 2.85 lakhs to Rs. 4.85 lakhs in a short span of one year. This was possible only due to his sincerity of purpose with which he took care of each and every aspects of the functioning of the mess and this impressive record is a testimony to the sterling services he rendered. Besides, he has carried out a complete survey of the property of the mess and added items worth Rs. 40,000 without drawing on the general mess fund.

Air Force Officers' Mess, located as it is and catering for the needs of Air HQ is called upon to arrange several functions mostly connected with the Air Force anniversary, 'At Home' by the CAS, tea party for the SNCOs and parties for foreign air attaches etc. It also caters for the entertaining of big dignitaries calling on the CAS at Air HQ and various high level conferences and meetings held there. His greatest contribution to the Air Force Officers Mess has been in the field of organizing these functions which are attended by no less personages that the presidents, the prime ministers, ministers and very high ranking civil and military officials. The arrange ments that he has ensured on these occas ions have not only enhanced the prestige of the Air Force and the reputation of the Air Force Officers Mess but also helped in providing excellent service at comparatively less expenses. Because of his intimate knowledge of the Indian and continental cuisine, he has been able to supervise and produce delicious food, drink and beverages which have always been appreciated by the VVIPs and VIPs.

With his calm and collected manners and cheerfully disposition, Squadron Leader Prabhu Singh has been able to manage the staff of the mess at their peak efficiency. Working under difficult conditions in shift system the staff had found him a good leader and manager who has always kept their welfare and interest his primary consideration. He has done much to help them in their needs.

Squadron Leader Prabhu Singh's contribution to the improvement of Air Force Officers Mess has been real and substantial and this he has been able to do because he is always out to do anything, even beyond the normal call of his duty, to ensure proper and efficient management of the mess. He has thus rendered distinguished service of a high order. For this Rashtrapati is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Squadron Leader Prabhu Singh.

Till 1980, IAF was using a system for writing Annual Confidential Reports which had been introduced in 1953. In view of the growth of the Indian Air Force and far reaching changes in its organizational structures, technology and administrative functions, doubts were expressed about the validity and objectivity of the Annual Confidence Reports. A review of the Appraisal System therefore became essential and this onerous task was assigned to Wg Cdr Sharma.

Wing Commander Shrama, single-handedly, made a deep study of the concepts, philosophy and techniques of appraisal and studied the appraisal systems followed in Government, public sector and private sector as well as in the Air Forces of developed countries. Following an empirical and scientific approach, he interviewed a large number of senior officers in order to identify the areas requiring review and changes. He designed a Survey Questionnaire of 56 questions which was sent out to 265 senior service officers to elicit their views and opinions on various alternatives for different aspects of the system. The detailed analysis of the responses obtained through the questionnaire was carried out in a record time and helped in early drawing of the blue print of the new system. A symposium on Appraisal System was organized at Air HQ wherein the reactions of the Command representatives were ascertained on the blueprint of the new system. Wing Commander now designed the system. It was presented to the Commanders in 1979 and was approved with some minor changes. Before installing the system, the new Appraisal Forms were tried on 600 officers of Junior level and 200 officers of the senior level. The trial results helped in validating the system and improving the final versions of the Appraisal Forms which were introduced from 1980 onwards.

In order to bring in uniformity in standard of assessments, Appraisal Training was made an essential feature of the system. For this, a curriculum for the Appraisal Workshop was designed by Wing Commander Sharma and these are being conducted at Command Headquarters and field units.

Wing Commander Sharma has also organized the Appraisal Cell in the Directorate of Personnel (Officers) and undertook statistical analysis of all reports at various levels. This analysis yielded useful input for follow-up action pertaining to training and development needs of officers

The introduction of the system in entirely due to the untiring efforts of Wing Commander Sharma. For his exemplary service, Rashtrapati is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wg Cdr Tilak Raj Sharma.

Wing Commander Rameshwar Dayal Vinayak was commissioned in the IAF on Jun 60. Prior to his posting to Air HQ Wg Cdr Vinayak has served in various appointments and his performance on all these has been excellent.

Since 1977, Wg Cdr Vinayak has been working at Air HQ in the Maintenance Cell responsible for providing complete logistic support to Hunters and Canberra Fleet of the Air Force. Immediately on taking charge of the logistic support of these vital weapon systems, Wg Cdr Vinayak set about in right earnest and in a methodical manner to streamline the organization and functioning of the Deputy Directorate. By meticulous planning and foresight, he rationalized the allocation of duties in consonance with the weapon system concept and improved the office layout and work condition. He inspired and guided his small band of subordinates into a well-knit team of highly motivated personnel ready to accept any challenge to improve the spares support to the Hunter and Canberra fleets. He did this by setting personal example of selfless service, sustained hard work, unswerving dedication to duty and unflinching loyalty to the service. Under his dynamic leadership, systematic reviews were carried out of the entire Canberra and Hunter inventory in a thorough and imaginative manner. As a result of his deep involvement, personal attention and expert analysis, many a distortion in provisioning were corrected leading to substantial reduction in expenditure and improvement in Demand Satisfaction Rate.

The professional knowledge and logistic acumen displayed by Wg Cdr Vinayak in the discharge of his onerous duties are indeed of an exceptional order. He has been keeping himself about the latest developments in the fields of Material Management, Inventory Control, Warehouse Planning and Material Handling Techniques. By virtue of his outstanding knowledge and expertise, Wg Cdr Vinayak has made a single contribution to the improvement of logistics procedures and practices, especially in computerized operations, followed at this Headquarters. His imaginative and constructive suggestions for modifications in the design and review statements. Due-in records, inability statements and various other systems were widely appreciated and have enhanced the utility of the computer service to the Maintenance Cells by enabling realistic and accurate provisioning and control of the spares inventory.

In recognition of his admirable initiative, commendable drive, selfless service and complete identification with the service, Rashtrapati is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Rameshwar Dayal Vinayak.

Squadron Leader Rajinder Singh Chib (7964) Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics) was commissioned in the IAF in 1965. During the course of his service, he has undergone the Post Graduate Course in Industrial Management at the Institute of Science, Bangalore. He has held various appointments like Squadron Signals Officer, Commanding Officer of an Early Warning Unit, Officer incharge Rotable Repair Shop and planning Division of a major overhaul line of Hunter Aircraft. Squadron Leader Chib was commended by AOC-in-C Maintenance Command in 1976-77 for his contribution to the Hunter production line attaining a very high production target of this ageing aircraft and its effective management.

As Assistant Director Avionics Modification team at Air HQ since December, 1977, Sqn Ldr Chib has played an important part in the successful completion of a number of sophisticated and challenging venture which has saved the country lakhs of rupees of foreign exchange, besides making aircraft avionics operationally effective and efficient. Sqn Ldr Chib took over as the Chief Executive of the Defence Services Officers Institute in January, 1980. He held the post for a period of 1½ years. During this period the general fund of Defence Services Officers' Institute shot up by lakhs besides substantial improvements in all sphere of activities. It was much to his credit that the multipurpose hall costing 35 lakhs as extension project of the existing facilities was planned and finalized during his tenure.

While it was his searching mind and thoroughness in technical matters that enabled Sqn Ldr Chib to rise high in the technical front in the Air Force, it was largely due to his managerial skill and administrative capabilities that enabled him to gain ground in Defence Services Officers' Institute. In short, his contribution to the image of three services as Chief Executive Officer of the DSOI has been unique, substantial and unforgettable. His achievements are ample proof of his dedication, sincerity of purpose, managerial skill, keenness to learn and bringing new ideas. For his qualities of leadership and managerial skill, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Squadron Leader Rajinder Singh Chib.

Flight Lieutenant Harsh Kumar Bhardwaj was commissioned in the Meteorological branch of the IAF on 26 Dec 70. During the tenure of his service he has held multifarious assignments, shouldered numerous responsibilities, served in the field with distinction. He proved himself to be an energetic and efficient officer possessing a high degree of professional knowledge and practical application of the same. For his outstanding performance and hard work, he was commended by the Chief of the Air Staff in August, 1979.

As Officer-in-Charge Central Met Stores, Flt Lt Bhardwaj conceived and implemented a scheme of making efforts to repair instruments locally in the Section. From within local resources, he set up a workshop and conducted courses for airmen of Met trade. He also compiled a handbook for repair and maintenance of Met instruments. By acts of extreme dedication to his profession, about 30 to 40 percent of instruments are now being repaired locally in the section. This in itself has amounted to saving of repair charges paid to India Met Department and has also speeded up the availability of serviceable instruments in units.

In addition to his primary duties, he was given the responsibility of administration of the Airmen's Mess and Air Force Canteen. He cheerfully and willingly accepted and executed this task with remarkable maturity and confidence which won him the appreciation from all quarters.

Flt Lt Bhardwaj displayed a special aptitude and initative for secondary duties involving public relations, organising skill and tact. He was the main organizer for all Air Force Wives Welfare Association (AFWWA) functions, Station sports/welfare activities and flood relief operation in 1978. Due to his special aptitude and dedication, he has been detailed to work with AFWWA (Central) at Air HQ. Besides, he was entrusted with onerous task of setting up and organising a Vocational Training Centre at Air Force Station, New Delhi. His high standard of judgment, balance and realistic approach have contributed in a large measure towards speed administration of AFWWA projects.

As Hony Secretary of AFWWA, he has introduced new schemes bringing about considerable benefit and assistance to the families of serving, retired and deceased Air Force personnel. Dealing with the human problems with his analytical and pragmatic approach, he has shown in abundance his unsurpassed quality of human approach, sympathetic attitude and has given new dimensions to the very concept of welfare.

With his brilliant uptake, clear thinking and deep insight, Flt Lt Bhardwaj accredited himself with the singular honor of being probable the only Met Officer to have been ever associated with such intricate projects. He is not deterred by obstacles or difficulties and can be depended upon to produce results in an unbelievable short time.

Endowed with the faculties of systematic analysis and pragmatic approach, he has brought about a system and sense of purpose amongst all his colleagues and subordinates in all assignments. For his outstanding services rendered throughout his career with single minded devotion and loyalty, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Flight Lieutenant Harsh Kumar Bhardwaj.

Wing Commander Surinder Mohan Bhatia was commissioned in the Indian Air Force on 31 January, 1463. While serving as Engineer Officer of a Transonic Fighter Squadron he was commended twice by the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Air Command for his outstanding work in the Squadron. During the 1971 Operations, he was commended by Chief of the Air Staff for distinguished service. Subsequently, he was posted as the Squadron Technical Officer of a Supersonic Fighter Squadron, where he earned commendation by the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief Eastern Air Command for the high standard of aircraft maintenance.

Later, the officer was selected for a postgraduate course in Aircraft Propulsion at IIT, Bombay, from 1976 to 1978. He passed out with distinction and stood first in the course. After post-graduation, he was posted to a Base Repair Depot, where he was commended by Chief of the Air Staff for achieving an ambitious target of aircraft overhaul.

After the successful completion of his training abroad he was posted to Air Headquarters in 1980 and was entrusted with the maintenance planning connected with the induction of the latest type of aircraft and weapons system. The officer toiled ceaselessly with a determined bid to ensure smooth induction of the latest type of strike aircraft in the Indian Air Force. In the shortest possible period, a few Squadrons have become fully, Operational.

For his exceptional professional ability, effectiveness in management of resources and devotion to duty of a very high order, the President is pleased to award VISHISHT SEVA MEDAL to Wing Commander Surinder Mohan Bhatia.

Wing Commander Sundara Krishna Suresh Sitaram was commissioned in the IAF in October, 1968. He has so far served with distinction in Air Force Signal Centre, a Fighter Squadron, Base Repair Depot and Directorate of Air Staff Requirement, Air Headquarters where he was commended by Chief of the Air Staff in 1978, for his pioneering work in the satellite communication area.

A graduate of Communication and Electronics Staff Course, USA and Defence Service Staff College, Wellington, he was posted to Directorate of Signals where he successfully carried out the trials of establishing an air-to-ground telephone.

Wg Cdr SKS Sitaram in February, 1982 was given the responsibility of organising the nation-wide live telecast of Fire Power Demonstration held at Tilpat Range. In order to successfully organise the telecast within the short time that was available, Wg Cdr SKS Sitaram had to personally coordinate with Indian Space Research Organisation, Door Darshan, Department of P & T and HQ Western Air Command. Under the guidance of Director of Signals (Air), Wg Cdr SKS Sitaram succeeded in positioning the Transportable Remote Area Communication Terminal of ISRO, Outdoor Broadcasting Van of Door Darshan at Tilpat on time and in aligning the P & T microwave circuits for telecasting of event throughout the country in real time. By his untiring effort, initiative and derive Wg Cdr SKS Sitaram successfully organised the nation-wide live telecast of Fire Power Demonstration. This was the first time an event of this kind was live telecast throughout the nation using a satellite.

For having displayed a high degree of professional competence, dedication and result oriented approach to the task assigned to him, the President is pleased to award VISHISHT SEVA MEDAL to Wing Commander Sundara Krishan Suresh Sitaram.

Squadron Leader Samuel Simon was commissioned in the Administrative Branch of the Indian Air Force in December 1964. He had held variety of appointments which include Assistant Administrative Officer, Security Counter Intelligence Officer at an operational Base, Assistant Provost Marshal and Staff Officer.

At Bombay, where the Officer was posted as Assistant Provost Marshal, he was instrumental in ensuring smooth and efficient movement of a large number of road convoys, especially relating to the setting up of Guided Weapons units. It was again during this tenure that Sqn Ldr Simon played a leading role in apprehending some personnel involved in smuggling activities. This was an operation beset with great personal danger and the officer carried it out with imagination and utter disregard of the risk and threat that his family and himself were faced with.

Having gained in experience, particularly with regard to security and investigative operations, the officer was specially selected and posted as Assistant Provost Marshal at Bagdoara, at a time when the general law and order atmosphere to the region had deteriorated. His tact, sense of involvement and mature judgment came in handy towards establishing cordial relations between the Air Force and the local population and he contributed substantially in enhancing the image of the Air Force in a difficult situation.

In all his recent appointments, as Staff Officer to Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Air Command, Staff Officer to Vice Chief of Air Staff and presently as ADC to Chief of the Air Staff, he continued to display exemplary devotion to duty and a forthright and positive attitude.

During all the 18 years of his commissioned service for having rendered dedicated service of a high order the President is pleased to award VISHISHT SEVA MEDAL to Squadron Leader Samuel Simon.

Squadron Leader Jayanti Swarup was commissioned in the IAF in December 1964. He has worked as a Fighter Controller, as a Station Adjutant-cum Counter Intelligence Officer and later as Command Organisation Officer. He acquitted himself creditably in all these assignments.

In December 1979 he was posted to Air Headquarters and has been working as Assistant Director in the Directorate of Personnel (Airmen). In this capacity he was entrusted with the policy relating to moves of airmen, laying down of manning levels for different types of units, plans for the augmentation of manpower during emergency and selection of airmen for posting to our Missions abroad as well as within the country. He discharged these responsibilities in an exceedingly efficient manner. Another important aspect relating to his day today functioning was to interview airmen as well as their relatives. He handled their representations in an admirable manner and was able to provide relief to the maximum possible number of deserving cases without sacrificing the general interests of the service. In this manner, he made a valuable contribution to the upkeep of the morale in general.

For the meritorious service of an exceptional order rendered by him the President is pleased to award VISHISHT SEVA MEDAL to Squadron Leader Jayanti Swarup.

Squadron Leader Rajvir Yadav was commissioned in the IAF in 1967. He has served as a Navigator in Packet and AN-12 Squadrons. Because of his hard work and involvement in his basic profession he was selected for an Advanced Navigation Course and was later posted as an instructor at Navigation and Signals School. During the tenure at NSS he was commended by the AOC-in-C Training Command for a very high sense of dedication and responsibility.

Squadron Leader Yadav also did a Fighter Controller's Course in which he stood first with an A-2 category. During the 1971 conflict he was posted in a Signal Unit and was commended by the ADDC Commander for having shown great presence of mind in skillfully controlling MiG aircraft which was unsure of its position and critically short of fuel.

For over 3½ years, Sqn Ldr Yadav has been working as the Staff Officer to an Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief and Principal Staff Officer at Air Headquarters. He has been thoroughly reliable in undertaking all the responsibilities of his task and has shown great tact, and where necessary firmness, in handling matters.

For his distinguished service of a high order spread over a period of many years, the President is pleased to award VISHISHT SEVA MEDAL to Squadron Leader Rajvir Yadav.

Group Captain Pooran Dev Adlakha was commissioned in the Accountant Branch on 17 November, 1956. A master of Commerce and MBA, the officer has also done Advance Accounts Course, Senior Defence Management Course, EDP Project Formulation and Budget Management Course. The officer has served with distinction as Senior Accountant Officer of four major Wings, an Equipment Depot and a Training Establishment. In 1971 he was appointed as Assistant Director Resettlement in the Mini stry of Defence and was responsible for rehabil itation of war-disabled soldiers and windows. With total dedication and resourcef ulness, the officer was highly success in substantially enlarging the avenues of resett lement and helping these unfortunate personnel to resettle themselves. As Group Accountant officer, by personnel involvement he not only achieved the audit objection targets set for the Group but also raised the state of accounting at units. He was then posted as incharge of Airman Pay Wing at Air Force Central Accounts Office where he tackled with commendable zeal and thoroughness the problem of debit balance in airmen's accounts.

In Feb 81 Group Captain Adlakha took over newly created post of Joint Director, Financial Planning. He took a leading part in the formulation Air Force Plan 80-85 and also improved information systems for monitoring the progress.

For having rendered distinguished service of exceptional order, the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Pooran Adlakha.

Wing Commander Sadasiva Dass was commissioned in the Air Force on 01 June 63. Since then he has held various field as well as staff appointments with distinction.

In Jan 79 Wg Cdr S Dass was specially selected to lead a Missile Project Management Team which was having slippage in work service and problem in procurement of indigenous equipment. As a result of sustained hard work, detailed planning and close liaison with the concerned agencies, Wg Cdr S Dass was able to get the works service executed by due date, indigenous equipment purchased and positioned at site in time for installation. Infrastructure for the overhaul facilities at site was completed by May 80 and pilot overhaul completed in Nov, 80. Thus, overhaul of equipment for operational Squadron has been put on a sound footing.

For having displayed qualities of leadership, devotion to duty and professional skill, the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing commander Sadasiva Dass.

Wing Commander Desika Thatham Rajagopalan was commissioned in the Air Force on 5 Oct, 64. An M Tech from IIT Delhi, he specialized in Control Engineering and Instrumentation. The appointments held by him include Assistant Direct of Air Staff Inspection, Flight Test Engineer, Instructor at Ground Training School and Assistant Director Air Staff Requirements. In each one of these appointments he distinguished himself by achieving much beyond normal expectations.

As Assistant Director of Air Staff Requirement he was assigned the task of looking after all projects relating to electronic and electro-optical systems and various simulator projects. He has, during his tenure in the Directorate, handled over 25 complex projects which required has full involvement in some of the developmental work.

Electronic and electro-optical systems are highly sophisticated and complex in nature. There has been rapid improvement in technology which demands continuous updating of knowledge. Wg Cdr Raja gopalan has made the utmost effort to keep himself abreast of the developments in the field and has been able to study various proposals for electronic and electro optical systems with a very critical eye and prepare exhaustive and thorough reports and briefs which helped a great deal in make decisions at higher level.

For his devotion to duty of a very high order and outstanding performance, the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Desika Thatham Rajagopalan.

Squadron Leader Padamjit Singh Ahulwalia was commissioned in the Indian Air Force on 2 June 1968. He served with great credit and distinction with a transonic Squadron for nearly four years, before selection for position to a high performance aircraft, where he served for two years. In recognition of his outstanding performance and ability he was awarded the Best Pilot Trophy in Command Gunnery Meet of Western Air Command event as a relatively junior pilot.

Squadron Leader Ahluwalia during a tenure with Iraq AF, successfully executed a forced landing on an L-29 aircraft. He was specially commended by the Commandingin-Chief, Iraqi Air Force for his highly professional, cool and competent handling of a grave emergency and saving the aircraft and the life of the pupil.

Squadron Leader Ahluwalia was specially selected for training abroad on a new aircraft in 1981. He was graded "Excellent" by the host authorities and once again brought great credit to IAF and the country in the eyes of a foreign Air Force. He was posted as Assistant Director Operations at Air Headquarters in March 1982 where he has been competently handling the staff work associated with the aircraft induction.

For his exceptional devotion to duty and dedication of the service, the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Squadron leader Padamjit Singh Ahluwalia.

Wing Commander Dinesh Chander Nigam was commissioned into the Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics) Branch in Oct 63. During his service career, he distinguished himself in such challenging assignments as management of guided weapon firing ranges and introduction of the GW equipment and its subsequent modification. He was Officer-in-Charge of Project ELINT and Tail Warning Systems which played a vital role in operations.

As Officer-in-Charge, he was responsible for technical evaluation, planning and execution of avionics projects of varied nature. In carrying out this task, he demonstrated technical acumen of a high order.

During his tenure as Officer-in-Change Avionics Modification Team, he was entrusted with the task of installation of Doppler Radar on the Canberra aircraft, Weather Radar on the Mi-8 helicopter and Omega Navigation System on the Avro, the Mi-8, the AN-12 and the Canberra TT aircraft as also trial installation of important secondary Radar on various MiG variants. When called upon to install and commission three sets of Weather Radars on the Mi-8 helicopters, earmarked for the third Antarctic Expedition, the officer undertook the task with zeal and determination and completed it within a short period of ten days, a commendable achievement by any standard. His technique of planning, procurement of installation material and fabrication of the required bracketry helped immensely in speedy completion of the installation task.

For his exemplary devotion to duty, able leadership, resourcefulness and diligence beyond the call of duty, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Dinesh Chander Nigam.

Wing Commander Jagdish Singh Dalal was commissioned in December 1964. During his service career, he has distinguished himself in various challenging assignments at Wings and Equipment Depots.

During 1970-71, he excelled himself in the field of indigenous substitution of technical spares, which resulted in substantial saving of foreign exchange, for which he was commended by the Chief of the Air Staff. Later, as Officer Commanding of an Equipment Depot, he took over aircraft equipment of the MiG-25 aircraft in record time which contributed substantially to the operational efficiency of the Air Force.

Wing Commander JS Dalal was posted to Air Headquarters on 04 July 83 and was entrusted with the responsibilities of finalisation of Courts of Inquiry, audit object ions and loss statements on stores losses, in addition to Annual Audit Certificates and Appropriation Accounts and Reports of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India. A sizeable number of them pertained to occurrences which were between three and twenty three years old and were causing grave concern at the highest level at Air Headquarters and Ministry of Defence. Undeterred by the heavy arrears and undaunted by the regular inflow of fresh cases, he formulated a crash plan and with his varied experience, missionary zeal and an analytical mind, he evaluated the circumstances under which those occurrences had taken place and made fresh comprehensive statements. His untiring efforts resulted in regularisation of a large number of outstanding cases, within the powers of the CAS.

For his outstanding devotion to duty, exceptional initiative, high professional knowledge, a keen sense of perception, sound pragmatic approach and untiring efforts extending beyond normal working hours, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Jagdish Singh Dalal.

Wing Commander Ramesh Chander Gosain was commissioned into the Air Force in May 1965. A fighter pilot of proven merit, he was awarded Vir Chakra for his gallant acts during the Indo-PakWar of 1971. He is a Fighter Combat Leader, and QFI with A2 Category. As Flight Commander in a frontline fighter squadron, he distinguished himself creditably leaving his mark of ingenuity, resourcefulness, professional competence and administrative skill of a very high order. All his qualities when coupled with his capacity to work hard under stress, acquired entirely new dimensions.

Since 10 May 1982, Wg Cdr RC Gosain has been holding the appointment of DDPO-I at Air Headquarters. His responsibilities entail posting of all officers upto the rank of Wg Cdr, acting promotions upto the rank of Sqn. Ldr., courses for all officers, temporary duty and attachment to and from Air Headquarters and Inter-Command attachment/ temporary duties, study leave, furlough and leave pending retirement, encashment of leave and regularisation of excess leave.

His tenure as DDPO-I has had to be a constant battle with increasing shortages of officers in all branches compounded by new inductions and new raisings, all to be manned effectively from existing resources. By sheer ingenuity, hard work, single-minded application and constant devotion to duty at great personal sacrifice, he has been mainly responsible for ensuring the viable manning state of all Air Force units in the rank structure of Wing Commanders and below, balanced manning at this rank level being most essential for the optimum achievement of the role/task, by the units.

For his diligence, sincerity, devotion to duty, integrity of the highest order and output beyond the call of duty, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Ramesh Chander Gosain.

Wing Commander Shiv Lal Chopra was commissioned in the Administrative Branch of the Indian Air Force on 25 Jun 65. During his 19 years of service, the officer has held several important field and staff assignments at major Stations and Wings and at Air Headquarters, besides having commanded two independent units. His performance all through has been imbued with sincerity of purpose, professional acumen and exceptional devotion to duty.

As the Station Adjutant of an Air Force Station, the officer displayed outstanding organising ability and exceptional devotion to duty. He displayed similar acumen in security and investigative operations, while performing such duties at Calcutta, at a time when the law and order in that region was a matter of concern to all.

In his present appointment, as Staff Officer to Air Officer-in-Charge Administration, Wg Cdr Chopra has continued to display his infinite capacity for hard work, cheerful disposition and a high sense of responsibility. Air Officer-in-Charge Administration is responsible for smooth functioning of works services, organisation, legal aspects and provost matters of the whole of the Air Force. The matters pertaining to the Accounts, NonPublic Funds, Group insurance Scheme and the Air Force Naval joint venture of Air Force Naval Housing Board need specialist and at the same time tactful handling. Through his varied experience, professionalism, maturity and genial inter-personal relations, he has brought about an exceptional degree of improvement in the staff work, and rendered valuable staff advice and assistance to AOA.

For his professional competence of a high order and selfless devotion to duty throughout his service career, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Shiv Lal Chopra.

Squadron Leader Arvind Kumar Nagalia is a test pilot and a qualified test flying instructor. He has almost 2000 hours of accident-free fighter flying to his credit. He has also attended the RAF Advanced Staff Course in the United Kingdom. Sqn. Ldr AK Nagalia worked in the Directorate of Air Staff Requirements as Asst Director from Dec 81 to Apr 84. During his tenure, he was associated with a number of important aircraft and weapon systems schemes initiated by the Air Force. These included the Mirage 2000, MiG-27M aircraft acquisition and formation of air targets for the Advanced Jet Trainer and Basic Turboprop Trainer projects. Sqn Ldr AK Nagalia has a profound knowledge of the operational and training requirements of the Air Force. He applied himself most meticulously in carrying out detailed analysis of the aircraft and weapon systems available so that correct decisions could be taken with regard to their acquisition. The staff papers produced by him were of a very high standard and bore the stamp of his experience as a test pilot and as a Qualified Flying Instructor.

For his outstanding contribution to the aircraft and weapon systems schemes, the President is pleased to grant Vishisht Seva Medal to Squadron Leader Arvind Kumar Nagalia.

Wing Commander Sat Dev Gupta (5529) Accounts was commissioned in the Accounts Branch on 1st June, 1958. He joined Air Force as B Com with Intermediate Chartered Accountancy and acquired LL B and Cost Accountancy qualification while in service, a rare combination of academic and professional qualifications in the field of finance and accounts.

He has served with distinction in two major Air Force Stations viz Jalahali and New Delhi, two major Wings, Air Force Academy and two Equipment Depots. He also served with rare competence and personal involvement at Maintenance and Western Air Commands.

In July 1983 Wing Commander Gupta was posted to Directorate of Financial Planning as Deputy Director Cost Analysis. He is also entrusted with the work of evaluation of all HAL financial proposals. He has taken very keen interest in streamlining, updating and analyzing the costing returns to arrive at realistic flying and training costs. His searching and critical examination of HAL cost quotations in consultation with Defence (Finance) yielded in reduction of over Rs. 56 Cr during 1984-85. It was solely due to him that a saving of Rs. 72 lakhs was achieved in profit elements payable to HAL for Jaguar and Bahadur aircraft. His advice to Ministry on assessment of income tax on license fee paid to British Aircraft Corporation for manufacturing Jaguar Aircraft would result in a refund of Rs. 87 lakhs.

With his exceptional capabilities and their maximum utilization for the benefit of service, a highly devoted and result oriented approach, Wg Cdr Gupta has maintained a very high standard of performance and has build up a highly motivated team which has achieved extra-ordinary results. For distinguished service of a high order, the President is pleased to award the Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Sat Dev Gupta (5529) Accounts.

Wing Commander Subhash Krishnarao Parelkar (7145) was commissioned in the Flying (Navigator) Branch of the Indian Air Force in March 1963. He served with dis tinction in Transport squadrons and qualified as a Navigator instructor. Subsequently, he served in the Air Headquarters Communica tion Squadron where only aircrew of proven merits are posted. He has to his credit 4,645 hours and his flying proficiency has been graded as exceptional on two different occasions.

Since March 1991, Wg Cdr Parelkar has served as Deputy Director VIP Operations at Air Headquarters, throughout rendering exceptional service. In the wake of Lok Sabha elections, a challenging task was entrusted to him of planning and execution of tightly scheduled movements of fixed wing aircraft and helicopter for the tours of the Prime Minister covering as many as 190 helipads besides visits to several recognized airfields. The officer was responsible for coordinating these VVIP movements with Air Force Commands and was a single point contact for all civil agencies including the Ministry of Defence, Intelligence Bureau, State Governments and several others. Unmindful of his personal comfort, with a high sense of responsibility the officer had throughout put in work for almost 18 hours a day to organize those flights and monitored their progress for proper execution. He ensured compliance with all the flight safety considerations so vital in the execution of VVIP flights. It is largely a measure of his personal tact, organizing ability, purposeful intelligence and dedicated hard work that despite several last minute changes all VVIP and VIP flights were carried out smoothly thus winning the respect of several high government authorities. The efforts of the officer were highly appreciated by the Prime Minister himself.

Throughout, Wg Cdr Parelkar displayed exceptional sense of duty, efficiency and professional competence of an exceptional order. For his distinguished service of a high order, the President is pleased to award the Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Subhash Krishnarao Parelkar.

Wing Commander Bipin Chandran Kurup (7505) Administrative was commissioned in the Jun 63 and inducted into air defence stream. With his extraordinary keenness and devotion to his profession, he attained professional categories in very short time.

During his tenure at two premier Signal Units he worked hard, much beyond the call of duty, to prepare and formulate training documents. Some examples of the officer's total involvement are the work done by him on a number of fighter controllers' notes. The notes prepared by him on the sophisticated radar, when it was inducted into service, are extensively used by all controllers even today. His zeal, organizing ability and devotion to duty had been instrumental in enabling his units to maintain a high category state of controllers, thereby improving the operational potential of the unit.

The officer with unflagging zeal and utmost devotion carried out his excellent work, when posted to the Directorate of Air Staff Inspection. He brought about many effective changes in the pattern of inspection, wherein realistic live and simulated exercises were undertaken for analysis of operational potential of units. He revised the syllabus and procedure of fighter controller's categorization scheme to meet the challenge of changing ground environment. Inspite of the busy inspection schedule, he always willingly involved himself in organizing professional activities, like workshops for examiners and publication of articles on professional subjects.

Wing Commander Kurup, with his keen intellect, professional acumen, untiring zeal, practical approach to problems and meticulous attention to details has made a significant contribution in improving the operational preparedness of Air Defence Units. The President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Bipin Chandran Kurup.

Wing Commander Jagat Narain Shukla (8548) was commissioned in the Administrative Branch of the Indian Air Force on 27 Jan 64. Since then he has held several challenging appointments such as Fighter Controller, Assistant and Deputy Provost Marshal, Assistant Director of Personnel (Officers) and Camp Commandant at Air Headquarters.

At Air Force Station Bikaner, the unit faced acute shortage of water and considerable improvement was needed in the living conditions of the airmen. Though the problem was outside the charter of duties, Wg Cdr Shukla volunteered and worked ceaselessly to achieve the twin objectives through dedicated and effective liaison with civil and local Military authorities.

As Assistant Provost Marshal at Agra, Wg Cdr Shukla was an embodiment of discipline, courage and conviction. He, on a number of occasions, endangered his life to apprehend a large number of notorious thieves responsible for several thefts of valuable service property. On one occasion he displayed courage of a very high order to save the life of a labourer buried in a well by endangering his own life and earned gallantry award of Shaurya Chakra.

In Nov 83, the officer took over the appointment of Camp Commandant, Air Headquarters, an unenviable appointment by all standards. The officer introduced several cost effective methods, significantly reduced cost of maintenance and supplies of essential and routine items. An effective and dedicated liaison with civil authorities helped in completing several Works Services and clear administrative bottle necks. This greatly improved the efficiency and level of satisfaction among the staff.

During the month of Feb 85, the Chief of the Air Staff desired to re-organise Air Headquarters to achieve greater efficiency. The shifting of nearly forty Directorates and subdirectorates from Vayu Bhavan to RK Puram and vice versa was a Herculean task. Wg Cdr Shukla worked around the clock even on Sundays and holidays and executed the task in an excellent manner with least damage to service property and at a negligible cost.

For his consistent performance of a high order involving untiring hard work, devotion to duties, high quality of leadership, organizing capability, cost effective management of resources in achieving desired results, the President is pleased to award the Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Jagat Narain Shukla, SC.

Wing Commander Ganapragasam Usther Dhanaraj (8570) Administrative was commissioned in the Indian Air Force on 27 Jun 64. He was trained in the Air Traffic Control and after attending some specialist courses had done field jobs for about 16 years and had earned a name for himself. He had to carry out his job even outside officer hours and he did it cheerfully and willingly with a high sense of loyalty.

Wg Cdr Dhanraj is on staff duties for the last five years. From Oct 81 to Nov 84, he had worked as Staff Officer to Assistant Chief of Air Staff (Plans), where he had to deal with four Directorates and was of great help to the ACAS (Plans) in the smooth functioning of this officer during the period. He had to receive large number of visitors, mostly foreigners, in connection with the evaluation and negotiations of new inductions and he performed this duty with utmost care, intelligence and devotion. For the last one year, he is working as Staff Officer to the Deputy Chief of the Air Staff. He works very hard and is utterly devoted to his job and does more than his fair share - no doubt at considerable personal inconvenience. He has thus become utterly indispensable. For his high degree of involvement, total dedication, unflinching loyalty, the President is pleased to award the Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Ganapragasam Usther Dhanaraj.

Group Captain Ramesh Nath Singh was posted to the Directorate of Financial Planning on 01 Jul 85. He took over the arduous task of development of a manual Management Information System and set about this job with perseverance and rare professional skill. The MIS developed by him has been of immense help in scrutiny of Hindustan Aeronautical Limited quotations and speedily furnishing information to various directorates and the Ministry of Defence. He has also streamlined the cost accounting procedures in respect of squadrons and training units, resulting in substantial saving of man hours at units in rendition of cost returns.

Efforts made in the past of introduce cost accounting in Base Repair Depots have not been successful as they had demanded additional manpower for it. At the same time, it has been considered essential to cost BRD activities as they use bulk of Air Force resources. Gp Capt RN Singh undertook the task of simplifying BRD costing while retaining the essentials elements of it so that this activity could be taken up within the existing manpower resources. He exhibited deep professional understanding and unusual determination in accomplishing this task. This step will go a long way in developing cost consciousness, informed decision making and achieving a sense of accountability.

No scientific system existed till recently for finalization of HAL cost quotations. With an active and positive involvement of Gp Capt RN Singh, a procedure has been developed to effectively vet HAL quotations. Adoption of this procedure resulted in a saving of about Rs. 64 crores to the IAF during 1985-86.

For his versatile ingenuity, outstanding devotion to duty, managerial capability and professional competence, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain RN Singh.

Wing Commander Anup Singh Bedi was commissioned in the Logistics branch on 16 Dec 61. He was posted to Air Headquarters with effect from 22 Feb 81.

In Jul 81, he was entrusted with the challenging task of executing the audiovisual publication campaign of the IAF during the Golden Jubilee year. He applied himself to this task diligently and drew up a comprehensive plan in order to achieve maximum media publicity for the IAF.

He liaised with Films Division for the free release of six selected documentaries and production of three new documentaries. Thus a documentary on IAF was issued every month all over the country in the Golden Jubilee year. It was through his untiring efforts that the feature film 'Vijeta' based on the life and expectation of a trainee Air Force pilot was made and exhibited.

He was also assigned the task of making a series of television films regarding various facets of the IAF by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting for telecast by Doordarshan. This was a Herculean task considering that making a feature film of 40-50 minutes duration requires 2-3 months for production. With single minded devotion to duty, Wg Cdr Bedi rose to the occasion, and produced thirteen such films. These were telecast nation-wide during the Golden Jubilee year. The excellent publicity achieved during the Golden Jubilee year was largely due to the stupendous efforts of the officer. The then Deputy Minister of Information and Broadcasting specially commended Wg Cdr Bedi's performance.

In Oct 83, Wg Cdr Bedi produced a documentary on the history of IAF titled "Down the Memory Lane" and later in 1985 a feature on the Siachen Glacier.

In recognition of his deep sense of involvement, dedication to duty, and resultoriented diligence, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Anup Singh Bedi.

Wing Commander Har Prakash Singh Sidhu was commissioned in the IAF as a fighter pilot in Jun 67. He served in a frontline operational squadron in the Western Sector in 1971 Indo-Pak War and was commended by the CAS. He is a Qualified Flying Instructor holding Category A-2 and a graduate of Defence Services Staff College. He was appointed Flight Commander of an operational squadron, where he accomplished his task with utmost professional competence. He has 2400 hours of accident-free fighter flying to his credit.

In May 82, he was selected for appointment as Assistant Director Personnel (Officers) at Air Headquarters. His duties encompassed manning of all fighter Bomber Units, Fighter Training Establishments and planning the career profile of all aircrew of the fighter stream. During his tenure, he displayed an excellent aptitude for staff work and profound understanding of the tasks assigned to him. This period saw a rapid expansion of the IAF with new units being raised and others reequipped with most modern aircraft and weapon systems. With his untiring zeal and diligence, he meticulously planned the utilization of limited manpower to attain high efficiency.

Wg Cdr HPS Sidhu was occasionally required to officiate as Deputy Director in addition to his own duties. He displayed a high level of maturity during his contact with senior Air Officers and exhibited great skill in handling complicated manning problems. He was deeply involved in working out long term plans to streamline aircrew manning in the IAF.

In recognition of his high level of professional ability, exceptional personal qualities and sustained hard work in the best traditions of the service, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Har Prakash Singh Sidhu.

Wing Commander Ashok Sood was commissioned in the Technical Armament Branch in January 1966. During his service career he has held varied field and staff appointments with distinction. From 1982 to 1987, he was employed as Deputy Director Maintenance Plans at Air Headquarters.

Wing Commander Sood is responsible for staff work concerning type and development training of technical personnel, technical trade structure, Branch Commissioning etc. His task includes co-ordination of the functioning of various MCFs to meet the requirements of type training of technicians, technical officers and aircrew.

In discharging the above functions he has displayed deep analytical ability and has strived for excellence in staff work by meticulous attention to detail as also by unbiased and diligent compilation and analysis of data. He involved himself fully in the tasks and the studies undertaken by him had a mark of incisive analysis and extraordinary communicating skill. His work pertaining to the study on utilization of Technical Branch Officers in BRDs, analysis of job evaluation, studies of technical trades by the Institute of Defence Management team and formulation of proposals for introduction of new technical trade in consequence to La Fontaine Committee recommendations, deserve special mention.

The officer is dedicated worker and has always displayed a high sense of responsibility and willingness to work hard for long hours without regard to his personal comfort.

For his exemplary devotion to duty, a deep sense of responsibility and dedication, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Ashok Sood.

Wing Commander Kamal Kumar Jotwani was commissioned into the IAF in Oct 66 and has been on active flying duties with distinction.

At present, the officer is employed in the Directorate of Intelligence as Deputy Director (Photo Interpretation). He is in-charge of a very important assignment, i.e., preparation of correctly interpreted target folders and collation of all relevant information pertaining to various targets.

During December 1985, he was assigned a special task of updating the information on target system. A detailed plan was made for acquisition of photographs, their correct interpretation, preparation of up-to-date target folders and their distribution to respective Command Head quarters as per their requisitions. For completion of this task, a time bound schedule was given to him. The officer took it as a challenge. He motivated all personnel very well and directed them methodically towards meeting this challenge. Besides the efforts of the personnel of his section, the required his tactful interaction with other agencies as well. Wing Commander Jotwani has been able to complete more than 90% of the enormous task assigned to him.

In his constant efforts complete the tasks assigned to him. Wing Commander Jotwani has shown exemplary leadership and dedication to service work. On many occasions, he had to work for long hours and even on Sunday/Holidays for prolonged periods.

For achievements of a high order devotion to duty and exemplary leadership in keeping with traditions of the Indian Air Force, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Kamal Kumar Jotwani.

Group Captain Prakash Chandra Thakur was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in March, 1958. During his service of over 31 years, he has held several key appointments at operational wings as well as Air Headquarters. Gp Capt Thakur had also held the post of Officer Commanding, Air Force Liaison Team at Paro in Bhutan during 1969-71 where he exhibited outstanding organizing ability. Presently, he is the Joint Director Organisation (Ceremonials) at Air Headquarters.

As Joint Director (Ceremonials), he has displayed high degree of involvement, foresight and detailed planning due to which every ceremonial commitment undertaken by the IAF was executed with precision and dignity enhancing the image of the Air Force. He successfully accomplished the priority job of bringing about improvements in uniform of Air Force personnel.

For distinguished service of a high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Prakash Chandra Thakur.

Squadron Leader Rohit Khera was commissioned in the Indian Air Force on 28 Dec 77.

As Station Adjutant of one of the Operational Wings, he was instrumental in streamlining the maintenance and updating procedures for personnel records at the station. He also showed great maturity in handling delicate disciplinary matters for all categories of personnel. As Deputy Camp Commandant at Air HQ in 1985, he introduced several cost reduction innovations and ensured timely and adequate supply of office contingencies and maintained excellent liaison with civil authorities to ensure smooth functioning of the entire Air Headquarters.

The officer was subsequently posted to an operational Command and is presently serving at Air Headquarters. In his staff appointments at Command and Air Headquarters, Sqn Ldr Khera has lived up to the early promises shown by him.

For his distinguished service, devotion to duty and organizing ability, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr Rohit Khera.

Sqn Ldr Pawan Seth was commissioned in the IAF in Jun 71 and has since held varied important field and staff appointments.

Sqn Ldr Seth took over as the Mess Secretary, Air Force Officers' Mess, Air Headquarters on 01 Dec 88. Through his dedication and hard work, he has brought about perceivable changes in the Mess premises within a short span. His methodical approach and systematic handling of financial activities of the Mess has brought about significant procedural changes resulting into growth of funds.

He has won appreciation on all occasions of traditional functions of the IAF like BiAnnual Commanders' Conference; CAS's 'At Home' during Air Force Day; Promotion Boards, etc. He has particularly excelled in providing excellent services to a very large number of retired Senior Officers who are members of the Mess.

Sqn Ldr Seth, single handedly has brought about remarkable improvements in living accommodation for senior officers, permanent and transit officers; style and quality of messservices, comforts and amenities; discipline in the Mess staff. For his exceptional managerial skill, courteous and tactful behaviour, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr Pawan Seth.

Gp Capt Madhukar Krishna Marathe was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in April 1963. He has been on the posted strength of Air Headquarters since Sep 87 as Joint Director Eng 'A'. During the span of 28 years of service Gp Capt Marathe has held various appointments such as OI/C Type 96 overhaul line, CEO of a major base, Project Engineer at Air HQs and has acquitted himself with credit.

During past three years, with timely planning and foresight, overhaul of MiG-25 aircraft and its engines in USSR was completed in a short span of 28 months. Number of AN-32 trips were reduced by proper planning of deliveries and despatches and he pursued the manufacturers to accept MiG-29 engines in last return trip.

During induction of a MiG-29 Sqn, with his meticulous planning of erection of aircraft, receipt and air lift of equipment and spares, the squadron commenced flying on the scheduled date.

During 1989, sensing poor product support from manufacturers, he played an important role in setting up of interim repair facilities for critical MiG-29 components. Further, he initiated number of indigenisation projects like flight data analyser, Ikran film, Nav bulbs, Cassette film etc, and provided development grants to operating units.

During past two years he brought out anomalies in pricing of certain costly and critical items which were accepted by GED. All these measures have resulted in saving of at least rupees four crores in FE.

For his exceptional devotion to service, excellence in the field of engineering planning, harnessing of resources and outstanding contribution, the President is pleased to award Bar to Vishisht Seva Medal to Gp Capt MK Marathe.

Gp Capt Gurnam Singh Chaudhry was posted to the Directorate of Air Staff Requirement, Air Headquarters on 10 Oct 88. He was allotted a number of major projects involving fighter aircraft, the most important of which was the LCA project.

Gp Capt Chaudhry displayed wisdom and maturity in his handling of the LCA project from the moment he was called upon to study, analyse in depth and provide professional comments on the 90 odd design documents while undertaking a review of the project. The officer researched the programme from its inception; sifting meticulously through volumes of wind tunnel results and performance predictions before he was able to highlight the anomalies and contradictions that were emerging. His clear perceptions became the focus for a high level review which culminated in an eventual Govt decision to alter the course of the project.

The programme encompasses a number of facets on which the Indian Aviation Industry lacks expertise. Some of the major topics that Gp Capt Chaudhry has had to regularly interact with ADA have been the complex issues relating to design of a Fly-by-Wire system, Multi Mode Radar, Mission Computer and choice of material for the Light Combat Aircraft wing. The very understanding of the fundamental issue of these topics calls for a high level of knowledge. To discuss and comment on them with the designers, Gp Capt Chaudhry was required to carry out an in-depth appraisal of each subject. That he was able to do so is an indication of the officer's professionalism and perseverance.

For his consistent dedication and distinguished service of a high order, perseverance and logical presentation, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Gp Capt GS Chaudhry.

Wg Cdr Om Krishan Dogra is on the posted strength of Air Headquarters (VB) since April 1987 and is presently working as Deputy Director in the Directorate of Maintenance Plans and Quality Assurance. Pursuant to the recommendations of Special Committee on Flight Safety in 1982, Government accepted the need for upgrading and restructuring the technical type-training in IAF and the Directorate of Maintenance Plans and Quality Assurance at Air Headquarters was made responsible for this special task.

With virtually no resources at his disposal, Wg Cdr Dogra set about the task of establishing these Schools/Units with great enthusiasm and perseverence. With his ability of planning, execution and rich experience, he compiled a detailed Project Report encompassing the entire activities ranging from site formulation of syllabi for each course, procurement of training aids and provision of requisite facilities.

The first TETTRA School for providing training on MiG-23 and MiG-27 aircraft commenced functioning with full infra-structure from Jul 87, within four months after taking up this task by Wg Cdr Dogra. Eight more TETTRA Schools and seven TTCs were also established well within the stipulated period.

There was no type training facility in the IAF for Mi-35/Mi-26 helicopters and Dornier aircraft and some highly sophisticated Air Armament Stores. To meet the type training needs of the aircraft, AE officers and technicians were sent abroad periodically. Wg Cdr Dogra, realising the resource constraints, especially in foreign exchange, succeeded in getting Government Sanction for opening of training units for these weapon systems. With the opening of these Type Training Schools, not only the precious FFE have been saved but also the availability of type trained personnel has considerably increased.

For his high sense of commitment, personal involvement, professional excellence, result oriented approach and outstanding ability, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wg Cdr OK Dogra.

Sqn Ldr IS Lamba has been discharging the duties of the Asst Director Adventure in the Dte of Adventure of Air Headquarters.

Sqn Ldr Lamba learnt equestrian sports in NDA and excelled in the field. In 1991, he became second best rider in the country. He has been participating in all the National Horse Shows and has always been in the first three positions. At Bareilly NEC in 1990, he was adjudged the second best rider of the championship. In the 1991, Bareilly Horse Show, Sqn Ldr Lamba was first in 'ONE DAY EVENT', first in 'OPEN SHOW JUMPING' and was adjudged the 'BEST RIDER OF THE EVENT'. He has been the back bone of the Air Force Equestrian Team since 1985 and with his personal devotion and hard work, Air Force has been doing well at the national level in this field. He has trained 10 Air Force personnel in Endurance Riding and 3 Air Force personnel in Show Jumping, as a result of which 5 fully qualified Air Force personnel are available to participate in any national competition.

In addition, Sqn Ldr Lamba was also assigned with the responsibilities of Para Sailing. In this sport the officer was one of the three officers initially qualified to conduct parasailing. Due to his devotion and hard work in this field Air Force has been able to conduct this adventure sport locally in Air Force units.

For his sustained hard work and exceptional devotion and excellent performance in Equestrian Sports, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr IS Lamba.

Sqn Ldr Tushar Kanti Rath was commissioned in December 1972. He commenced his service career as an Air Traffic Control Officer. In October 1975 he completed Para jump Instructors Course at PTS, with distinction. Thereafter, he was an instructor at PTS for over seven years. During the tenure he logged more than 700 jumps including about 100 at night. He is among the very few who have recorded more than 200 free falls.

Sqn Ldr Rath has held numerous Instructional appointments. Notable amongst these are appointments viz. the Chief Instructor at Air Force School of Physical Fitness and Directing Staff at the Ground Duties Officer Training Faculty at Air Force Academy.

His administrative acumen and conceptual vision were high lighted during his tenure as the Senior Administrative Officer at No. 1 Staging Post, Car Nicobar in 1986-87 when he was instrumental in initiating work services of approximately 2 crores for Fighter Base Support Units in Car Nicobar and Great Nicobar.

Sqn Ldr Rath has also undergone the Basic Mountaineering Course at Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, Uttar Kashi, the advance Mountaineering Course at Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Darjeeling and the Basic Winter Warfare Course at High Altitude Warfare School, Gulmarg. He was a member of the successful Air Force Mountaineering Expedition to BHARTE KUNTE and Skiing Expedition to KEDAR DOME in 1978 and earned commendation from the Chief of the Air Staff on 15 Aug 78. He was also a member of the successful Japanese Expedition to NUN in 1983 and was nominated leader of the Air Force Expedition planned in 1985.

For his determination, professionalism and distinguished service the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr TK Rath.

Sqn Ldr Janmejay Jaywant Deshmukh was commissioned in Admin Branch of the Air Force on 11 Jul 75. Throughout his service the officer has made remarkable contribution in the various staff appointments he held at different levels. In recognition of his outstanding abilities, the officer was appointed as Staff Officer to an Air Officer. He served as Staff Officer to Senior Air Staff Officer Central Air Command, Air Officer-in-Charge Personnel at Air Headquarters, AOC-in-C, Central Air Command and finally the Vice Chief of Air Staff at Air Headquarters.

During his various assignments as Staff Officer, the officer has undoubtedly proved himself as an outstanding manager of the Secretariat supporting the functions of the vital office. He has displayed an uncanny ability to undertake tasks which were of utmost importance and of crucial consequences.

The officer has displayed remarkable maturity in the correct prioritisation of tasks before the Air Officer as well as coordination among various agencies in completion of the desired task. In addition, the officer has displayed excellent qualities of manmanagement and inter-personnel relationship. During the course of his duties, the officer had to interact with a large number of senior officers wherein with his courteous and tactful approach he was able to establish a rapport with the ultimate objective of task accomplishment. As the officer-in-charge of the VCAS Secretariat, the officer meticulously organised information which facilitated smooth decision making.

For his professional ability, unflinching loyalty and devotion to duty of an exceptional order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr JJ Deshmukh.

Sqn Ldr Radha Krishnan Ayilliath was commissioned in the Air Force in Jan 76 and is presently posted at Dte of Trg at Air Headquarters.

During the last two years the major aim of training has been the improvement in quality within optimum costs and time-frame. Sqn Ldr Ayilliath's specific responsibilities in this area pertain to technical training of airmen of all trades together with the demand to increase numbers under training within existing resources.

He co-ordinated inputs from Hq Training Command, Specialist Directorates and prepared effective practical plan to meet the requirement of the Air Force. Training flowcharts for the next five years were prepared, including training wastages, projected requirements/deficiencies in specific trades.

Dove-tailing with the above, were plans to expand and rationalise the All Through Technical Training (ATT) Scheme for the seven aircraft trades without break of trained manpower to operational units. Sqn Ldr Ayilliath's analysis and knowledge of the training needs resulted in the saving of 24 weeks of training and a saving of Rs 2.6 crores per year in the All Through Technical Training.

Setting up an economic plan for future technical training of Airmen, and its modernisation, demanded changes in syllabus and scales of training aids to support it. This was achieved by Sqn Ldr Ayilliath and 12 training aid scales successfully processed with the Government.

For his professional competence, foresight and exceptional devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr R K Ayilliath.

Sqn Ldr Dharma Vir Verma was commissioned on 16 Jun 76. He was posted to Dte. of Edn, Air HQ on 08 Dec 86 as Project Officer of the Air Force Golden Jubilee Auditorium.

Right from the start, he applied himself wholeheartedly and energetically to the task and has worked relentlessly till the completion of the project. With the help of only one Cpl Ach/GD, he has handled the entire range of tasks of the project involving coordination with various construction agencies monitoring the actual construction tasks, arranging procurement of materials, scrutinising the bills, maintaining correspondence etc. During occasions when the project bogged down due to lack of availability of material or other reasons, he used his resourcefulness in getting around the problems and through persistent follow up he was able to get the project moving. He has given accurate and timely advice regarding decisions to be taken to speed up the project. He has shown tremendous initiative, drive and imagination in anticipating problems and getting ready with possible solutions so that the project could progress without hold up. It is because of his single minded devotion, organising capacity, ability to innovate and unrelenting hard work that the project could be completed successfully. Throughout his tenure, he worked much beyond the call of duty regardless of personal comfort with the sole objective of completion of the tasks entrusted to him.

For his exceptional devotion to duty, organising capacity and relentless hard work towards successful completion of the Air Force Auditorium, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr DV Verma.

Gp Capt Bhojwani, commissioned in IAF on 16 Oct 65, has held various responsible appointments including Chief Instructor at FIS, CO of two front line fighter squadrons, DS at College of Air Warfare and at DSSC and Chief Operations Officer.

The officer had the distinction of commanding two front line fighter squadrons, both operating MiG-21 aircraft in the operational training role in the Eastern Sector. He ensured a high standard of training and discipline and the squadrons displayed a perfect Flight Safety record. It was due to Gp Capt Bhojwani's leadership that, in Jan 87, when a sudden need arose, the squadron shifted smoothly to the operational role and deployed to a non-flying FBSU in the Western Sector and was declared battle-ready in a matter of 24 hours.

In Sep 88, Gp Capt Bhojwani was posted as COO at a premier IAF base. Displaying a rare combination of academic and practical insight, he helped further streamline the operational potential of the station, with particular emphasis on the integration of the two new SAGW systems introduced into service at that time. He carried out a fresh threat assessment for the Extended BADZ which led to the redeployment of MOFs. Subsequent exercises proved the efficacy of the new deployment.

A significant contribution of Gp Capt Bhojwani has been in updating the existing personnel policies, and making them more comprehensive. The complete overhaul of the policy on operational augmentation of manpower in the event of hostilities, introduction of computerised leave returns for all officers of the service, so as to ensure prompt auditing and payment of retirement benefits and carrying out in-depth studies in the area of manpower planning and their training are examples of this officer's initiative and attention to details.

For distinguished service of a very high order and devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Gp Capt S Bhojwani.

Wg Cdr Ashok Bhagwat was posted to the Dte of ASR on 04 Jan 90. He was tasked with a number of major schemes involving fighter aircraft, the most important of which were the oft-publicised AJT Project and the lesser known, but equally important, BTT project.

Wg Cdr Bhagwat, charged with revitalising the stagnating AJT project, undertook his task in a pragmatic fashion. After meticulously researching the background, the officer was able to suggest novel methods on how the project should be handled. These required the officer's professional application, a clear understanding of the fundamental issues and an exhaustive preparation of the subjectmatter. When the RRM decided that a Secretary-level Committee suggest an optimal solution, the DCAS inputs for the Committee were provided by Wg Cdr Bhagwat. The officer once again carried out an indepth appraisal; a sheer testimony to his perseverance. That this major project now stands poised for a decision is primarily on account of the very considerable time and effort devoted to it by Wg Cdr Bhagwat.

The BTT project, on the other hand, was a completely different challenge for this conscientious officer. Unable to proceed on account of the critical economic situation, he suggested an innovative approach. The suggestion was accorded requisite approval and mainly as a result of Wg Cdr Bhagwat's initiative the project is to commence shortly.

The complex task of updating the MiG-21 engaged the attention of Wg Cdr Bhagwat to such an extent that he was singled out to represent the IAF at an important joint meeting in the Soviet Union. He has critically examined & large volume of soviet documents and has made a number of constructive suggestions.

Wg Cdr Bhagwat's keenness to advocate new concepts, his thoroughly professional approach, logical reasoning, analytical mind and imaginative ideas, have infused fresh life into projects which were making little headway.

For the afore-said attributes, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wg Cdr AV Bhagwat.

Sqn Ldr Dinesh Mohan Mathur was commissioned in the Administrative branch of the IAF on 18 Jan 75.

As Adjutant (AF Station, Suratgarh), through his initiative and drive was instrumental in streamlining the administration of this forward base and also cleared a large number of pending audit objections. His positive approach and dedication to duty largely contributed towards achieving the set goals.

As Adjutant, AF Station, Jamnagar, he brought about conspicuous improvements in the working of HQ Orderly Room and general administration of the Station by his close monitoring and supervision. AF Station, Jamnagar earned trophies for being the best administered Wing in SWAC for two consecutive years. In recognition of his outstanding services at Jamnagar, the officer was awarded Commendation by the CAS on 26 Jan 87.

As Staff Officer to AOP, he has displayed professional skill and inter-personnel relationship of a very high order. He has brought about significant improvements in the functioning of AOP Secretariat by his untiring efforts and zeal.

For his distinguished service of exceptional order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr DM Mathur.