Air Vice Marshal Vettakkorumakankav Sivarama Narayanan was posted to the Defence Research and Development Laboratory in 1972, as its Director and Project Officer. There, he built up extensive and comprehensive infrastructure relating to rocket tests, flight range fabrication, aerodynamics, structural tests, environmental tests and quality control, He also built up technological competence in the fields of propulsion, navigation guidance, control, structures, computer science and system technology. He activated a number of sister Research and Development Laboratories and production units, in their respective areas of specialisation and production competence, as relevant to the large weapon systems. He also has motivated, trained and built up a team of young dedicated scientists to form the “core" in the various areas of Missile Technology. These efforts have taken the shape of a complete integrated complex system for utilising and harnessing the resources of the various production units into a time-bound and cost-bound hardware development programme. Thereby a nucleus of powerful project management capability for large projects has been established.

Air Vice Marshal Vettakkorumakankav Sivarama Narayanan has thus rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Vice Marshal Kuppuswamier Chidambaram, (3531), Logistics, was commissioned in the Air Force in 1948. He has held a number of important appointments with distinction, including the command of four different Equipment Depots. His contribution as Officer Commanding of an Equipment Depot during Indo-Pak Conflict, 1971, was specially significant. Despite the limited resources at his disposal, he provided an extremely effective logistic support to all the operating units. It was due to his initiative and innovative approach that tedious problems like unlinked invoices worth crores of rupees and long outstanding claims at the Depot, were solved successfully. The drill laid down by him in this respect was subsequently adopted by all other Depots. It was at his instance that his staff identified and recovered a large number of tools and test equipment from obsolete aircraft systems which resulted in saving considerable amount of foreign exchange.

In 1975, he was posted as Director of Stores. By his professional skill and excellent organising ability, he brought about marked improvement in the supply position of flying clothing and clothing for airmen, both of which were in short supply. In 1977, as the Air Force Member of the Inter Ministerial Special Surplus Disposal Committee, he was responsible for the successful disposal of a large variety of phased out aircraft aero-engines and spares, which had been defying solution for a number of years. In 1978, he was appointed Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Logistics). In that capacity, he has controlled and directed the activities of six Directorates and, undeterred by the shortfall in resources, he forged them into an efficient and effective organisation spanning the wide spectrum of operation of trainer aircraft, supply of aviation fuels, mechanical transport, maintenance planning, inspection and administration.

Air Vice Marshal Kuppuswamier Chidambaram (Retd) has rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Chandrakant Shridhar Naik AVSM VSM (3499) Aeronautical Engineering (Mechanical) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in 1947. He completed Post Graduate Course in Aircraft design in the College of Aeronautics in the United Kingdom. He also graduated from the National Defence College.

During his long service career, he has held various important assignments with distinction. While on deputation with the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, he was intimately associated with the setting up a viable flight test organisation. He headed a team of Indian engineers to a foreign country for collaboration in a joint aeronautical engineering development project. He commanded an aircraft Base Repair Depot and, subsequently, the largest Air Force Maintenance Base which provided maintenance support to our fleet of operational aircraft during Indo-Pak Conflict, 1971. As Assistant Chief of Air Staff (Engineering) at Air Headquarters, he was responsible for successfully tackling serious unserviceability problems of a large number of grounded aircraft and for introducing various modifications for safe flying which helped in better utilisation of all types of aircraft with the available resources. In his present appointment of Air Officer in-charge Maintenance, he has ensured productivity with safety. He reorganised the Maintenance Branch on a functional basis to bring about maximum and effective utilisation of the limited inventory of aircraft spares and maintenance equipment and introduced computerised management information system which has considerably improved the serviceability and operational capability of aircraft and other systems. For his distinguished performance in his earlier career, he was awarded Vishisht Seva Medal in 1964 and Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in December 1971.

Air Marshal Chandrakant Shridhar Naik has thus rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Lakshman Madhav Katre AVSM and Bar (3117) Flying (Pilot), was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in 1945. He successfully completed a course from Royal College of Defence Studies in England.

During his long service career, he has commanded operational squadrons and stations and has held with distinction various important assignments including those of Commandant of the Air Force Academy at Dundigal, Senior Air Staff Officer and AOC-in-C of important Air Commands. By his outstanding qualities of leadership and administrative and organising ability, he has immensely contributed towards reorientation and rationalisation of training programmes and has considerably improved the operational effectiveness of the formations through effective maintenance and constant serviceability of aircraft fleet. It was also the result of his personal initiative and involvement in improving the reliability of the ageing Hunter aircraft, available with the Operational Conversion Unit, that a number of pilots awaiting operational conversion, have been successfully trained on these aircraft. In 1978, when floods affected large areas of West Bengal and Assam, he personally supervised the relief operation wherein thousands of marooned people were evacuated and rescued and huge quantities of food

supplies were airdropped.

Air Marshal Lakshman Madhav Katre has thus rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Saroj Jena was commissioned in the Air Force in June, 1945. During his 35 years of distinguished service career, he has held several important command and staff appointments. He has held the command of the three major Air bases in the Northern and Western sectors. One of these bases with its fleet of fighter, bomber and maritime and transport Squadrons, located in the Western Sector, is the largest operational establishment of the Air Force. During his two years tenure at this base, he organised all the training and other requirements of the base and ensured high operational and offensive preparedness of the Squadrons. He also maintained effective coordination with the Indian Navy in planning and providing maritime air defence of the country.

After graduating from the Defence Services Staff College with the coveted Directing Staff grading, he did a tenure as Chief Instructor at the Air Wing of the College. After serving as Joint Director of Operations (Transport & Maritime) and then as Director, Joint Operations Planning, he was posted as Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Flight Safety and Inspection) at Air Headquarters. In this assignment, he was responsible for formulating policies relating to transport and maritime operations of the Air Force, coordinating and processing of joint inter-Services operational plans and all matters relating to flight safety and evaluation of operational and combat worthiness of the entire combat element of the Indian Air Force. He handled all these matters with professional competence. He set up a very ambitious flight safety target for the Air Force and implemented it successfully.

On promotion to the rank of Air Marshal, he was posted as Air Officer-in-Charge, Administration at Air Headquarters. His taking over this appointment coincided with the formulation and implementation of several important measures relating to career prospects of officers and other ranks in the Air Force. The various proposals in this regard were formulated and processed in consultation with the Ministry of Defence. After Government approval was obtained, his effective guidance enabled the staff to implement the large scale upgradations of airmen posts and within a period of six months, promotions and deployments of several thousand personnel were carried out smoothly. In the case of officers also, he made valuable contribution towards finding acceptable and workable solutions to the problems of stagnation and supersessions in the Air Force.

In addition to the matters on personnel side, his responsibility also covers works services, administration and financial control of various Air Force welfare funds and schemes, discipline, law and order, security of Air Force installations and management of public funds of the Air Force. In these too, he has displayed sound judgment and ingenuity and carried out his tasks with commendable results.

Air Marshal Sara Jena has thus rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Hemant Ramkrishna Chitnis was commissioned in the Air Force in 1944. Besides holding several important Command and Staff appointments during his 36 years of service with the Air Force, he underwent several professional courses in India and abroad. He did his Flying Instructor's Course in U.K., Defence Services Staff College Course at Wellington and Senior International Defence Management Course at USA. He made effective use of the knowledge and experience gained by him during these training courses in his various Service assignments.

He commanded with distinction an Operational Squadron, a Flying Station and the Air Force Academy. His important Staff assignments at Air Headquarters include Joint Director Intelligence, Director of Flight Safety, Director of Training and Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Plans).

As Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Plans), he was responsible for forecasting, planning and formulating Air Staff requirements for new aircraft and equipment for the IAF. He made significant contribution in the preparation of the Five-Year (1978-83) Financial Role on Plan for the IAF and in planning for the Acquisition of Deep Penetration Strike Aircraft and Medium Transport Aircraft, and the Trials of Various Inertial Navigational Equipments.

As Commandant, Air Force Academy, he meticulously planned and organised his tasks and resources and ensured a high standard of training without a single fatal accident. On taking over as Air Officer Commandingin-Chief, Training Command, he re-oriented the training in the IAF on the basis of his vast experience as Instructor. While he ensured the highest standards of training necessary for the Operational Units, he also achieved the lowest wastage rate among trainee pilots. As Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief Maintenance Command, he was responsible for the overhaul and repair of aircraft, aeroengines, airborne and ground equipments specialist vehicles. Through effective management of manpower and material resources, he significantly improved the output various Base Repair and Equipment Depots in his Command and thus ensured effective serviceability his Operational Units.

Air Marshal Hemant Ramkrishna Chitnis has thus rendered distinguished service of the most exception order.

Air Marshal Trilochan Singh Brar was commissioned in the Air Force in the Flying Branch in April, 1944. During his long service in the Air Force, he has held a variety of flying and senior staff appointments at various levels. He has commanded two important air bases in the ranks of Group Captain and Air Commodore and creditably discharged his wide and varied responsibilities in regard to the deployment of bomber, maritime and transport Squadrons. During his three years tenure as Air Attaché in our Embassy in France, he displayed a rare combination of professionalism and diplomacy and

successfully completed this sensitive role. As Air I at Headquarters Western Air

Command during the period preceding the Indo-Pak Conflict, 1971, he visualised the need and meticulously formulated operational plans for deployment of aircraft in the Western

Sector and for providing close air support to the Army. This planning was largely responsible for the high degree, of operational preparedness of the Command when the conflict broke out. For this distinguished performance, he was awarded Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in January, 1972.

He has subsequently held the important appointments of Senior Air Staff Officer Headquarters Central Air Command in the rank of Air Commodore and Commandant Air Force Academy in the rank of Air Vice Marshal. As Commandant, Air Force Academy,

he reviewed and updated the flying training techniques and ensured a high standard of training consistent with the requirements of flight safety. In his present appointment as Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief Central Air Command, he has enabled the Command to fulfill all its tasks relating to air maintenance and operational training despite the serious shortage of fuel and spares for the ageing aircraft. In the face of heavy odds, he has maintained high level of serviceability of aircraft enabling the command to fulfill all its operational commitments. The massive air operations undertaken by the Command for flood relief won the appreciation of all concerned including the civil authorities.

Air Marshal Trilochan Singh, Brar has thus rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Vice Marshal Mulk Raj got his commission in July, 1953. He has held a number of important assignments and served as Principal Medical Officer at Headquarters Western and Central Air Commands and the Training Command.

He has undergone a large number of professional and Service courses which, among others, include Blood Transfusion Course, the Resuscitation Course, the Specialist Course in Aviation Medicine, the Defence Services Staff College Course, the Work Study Appreciation Course and the Senior Defence Management Course. He was the first IAF medical officer who was selected for appointment as Senior Medical Officer at the National Defence Academy, Khadakvasla. By his dedicated efforts, he was able to convert the local Section hospital into a full-fledged independent hospital and there by ensured saving of a number of training hours of the cadets. After graduating from the Defence Services Staff College in 1959, he was amongst the first few in his Branch to specialise in Aviation Medicine. His project study paper on 'Fighter Cockpit Space' helped, to a great extent, in designing the cockpit of jet trainer aircraft. As an aviation medicine specialist, he held the important assignment of Officer Commanding Aero-Medical Unit. In 1969, he was posted as Deputy Director of Medical Services at Air Headquarters. While in command of the Command Hospital at Bangalore, he considerably improved the efficient functioning of the hospital.

As Director of Medical Services at Air Headquarters, he has brought about improvement in preventable diseases, in the standard of hygiene and sanitation and efficient working of maternity and child welfare centres at Stations in the various Commands. He has also ensured that the medical staff is closely involved in flight safety programme of their units. This has not only brought about improvement in the operational efficiency of the units but has also helped in keeping the accident rate down.

Air Vice Marshal Mulk Raj has thus rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Douglas George King-Lee, AVSM (3040) Flying (Pilot) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in 1944 and has held many important command and staff assignments during his long meritorious service in the Air Force. His command appointments included the command of an important air base, a Tactical Air Centre, a Base Repair Depot, an Air Defence Control Centre, HQ Maritime Air Operations, Bombay and J & K area. His important staff appointments included Air Adviser to our High Commission in Bangladesh, Senior Air Staff Officer of Training Command and presently, Commandant of the National Defence College.

Air Marshal King-Lee during his service career has undergone a large number of professional courses - both in India and abroad - which includes Flying Instructors course at UK, Defence Services Staff College course at Wellington, Senior Officers Management course at Secunderabad and the National Defence College course.

During his tenure as OC of a Base Repair Depot, production rose to a level which had not been achieved ever before at that particular Depot. As Air Defence Commander of Eastern Sector during Bangladesh liberation war of 1971 he displayed exceptional qualities of supervision and leadership by maximum utilisation of available resources. Thereafter as Air Adviser to our High Commission in Bangladesh during the critical period from 1972-76, he displayed a rare combination of professionalism as well as diplomacy in extremely delicate handling of sensitive matters.

With vast experience as an instructor, both in the air and on the ground, and having held important assignments, Air Marshal King-Lee as Senior Air Staff Officer, Training Command, constantly reviewed training syllabi for every branch and trade and was thus instrumental in re-shaping the training in the IAF. During this period the Flying Training establishments had the lowest ever wastage rate among trainee pilots without compromising our standards.

Air Marshal King-Lee in his long career in the Indian Air Force has shown outstanding qualities of dynamic leadership and organisational, managerial and professional competence of a very high order.

Air Marshal Douglas George King-Lee has thus rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Balwant Wickram Chauhan, AVSM (3352) Flying (Pilot) was commissioned in the Air Force in 1946. He was graded an above average Pilot on completion of his flying training and started his flying career on transport aircraft. He has so far flown 25 different types of aircraft including jets.

This Officer spent the early years of his flying career in Air Headquarters Communications Squadron where he was engaged in flying VVIPs within and outside India. He holds the distinction of being the first Indian Air Force Officer to obtain 'A' Category on transport aircraft. He is also the only officer of the Indian Air Force who has served with the Queen's Flight of the Royal Air Force. He was the leader of the Team for supply dropping trials from AVRO 748 aircraft in J & K and Ladakh. Air Marshal Chauhan has held various Command and Staff appointments with credit. As a member of the Aircrew Examining Board in the early days after its formation, he applied his professional skill and knowledge of aircraft in evolving sound testing procedures for aircrew, thereby ensuring the highest standards of flying amongst the flying crew of the Indian Air Force.

He has also served with distinction at an important establishment where, in addition to his normal duties involving supervision of operations, technical, equipment and administrative departments of his organisation, Air Marshal Chauhan undertook a number of difficult and risky operations, particularly in the 1971 operations against Pakistan when he flew 34 hours on special operational missions.

As Commandant of Air Force Academy, Air Marshal Chauhan with meticulous planning and utilisation of manpower, aircraft and equipment, ensured a very high standard of training.

With vast experience as an instructor both in the air and on the ground and having held important assignments, Air Marshal Chauhan, as Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Training Command, reshaped the training in the Indian Air Force and achieved laudable results. He has been instrumental in successfully increasing the intakes at the training establishments. Over his entire career as a Pilot and as a Staff Officer, Air Marshal Balwant Wickram Chauhan has established himself as a leader of men, an organiser and an administrator of a very high ability. He has always worked with a spirit of dedication and exemplary devotion to duty.

Air Marshal Balwant Wickram Chauhan has thus rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Jagdish Raj Bhasin, AVSM, VM (3591) Flying (Pilot) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in July, 1949. During his long service career, he has held a variety of Command and Staff appointments with distinction at various levels including policy making levels. In the varied posts held by him, he has distinguished himself not only by professional competence but also by outstanding administrative ability.

His command appointments include the command of two front line fighter Squadrons, where he accomplished high rate of aircraft serviceability, enhanced operational preparedness and all round efficiency.

As Air Officer Commanding of a major operational base Air Marshal Bhasin, within a very short time, was able to integrate his command of multi Squadron force into an efficient team achieving lowest ever aircraft accident rate, while maintaining a high serviceability and utilisation rate. In addition to heavy air maintenance tasks, his base was also called upon to undertake relief operations after the devastating earthquake in Himachal Pradesh in January/February 1975 and during floods in August, 1975. The air efforts in both these relief operations had won high acclaim and enhanced the prestige of the Air Force. This was possible because of the excellent planning and leadership displayed by Air Marshal Bhasin.

In recent years, this officer, has held with distinction the important appointments of Director of Offensive Ops at Air Headquarters in the rank of Air Commodore and the appointment of Senior Air Staff Officer at HQ Eastern Air Command in the rank of Air Vice Marshal.

In his present appointment as Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief South Western Air Command, he has displayed exceptional qualities of leadership and planning. By his dedicated and dynamic approach he has ensured a very high state of operational preparedness within his command, inspite of serious difficulties in the form of fuel and power shortages and diminishing spares backing for ageing aircraft. Through his close monitoring of ground maintenance, flying and allied activities, Air Marshal Bhasin has been instrumental in building up an operational infrastructure of an exceptional order.

Air Marshal Jagdish Raj Bhasin has thus rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Vice Marshal Loreto Pestana Pereira (3705) was commissioned in the Logistics Branch of the Air Force in 1945. The Officer graduated from the Defence Services Staff College in 1959. As a member of the Maintenance Planning Teams and as Deputy Air Adviser at High Commission for India in London he effectively provided

the required spares support to the existing and newly inducted aircraft. One of the pioneers in management training in the Air Force, he helped build up the Institute of Defence Management in its early formative years and then functioned, with distinction, as Director of the Defence Institute of Work Study.

Air Vice Marshal Pereira has been responsible for successful logistics planning connected with induction of new weapon systems. His able and inspiring guidance has helped sustain a high serviceability rate of trainer aircraft despite the ageing of the HT-2 aircraft. In field of Logistics Management, he not only introduced major improvements in the 'on-going' schemes but has effectively put to use exceptional conceptual and innovative skills in evolving new and better supply organisation and procedures. The most notable of these changes are revision of maximum potential establishment for strategic items; direct supply and return of rotables between the repair agencies and operational units; introduction of automatic replenishment of airmen's clothings and streamlining provisioning and purchase procedures.

Air Vice Marshal Loreto Pestana Pereira has thus shown outstanding qualities of leadership, conceptual ability and professional competence. With a spirit of dedication and exemplary sense of duty he has rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Vice Marshal Loreto Pestana Pereira has thus rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Vice Marshal Vajjha Sriman Narayana Murthy (3587) Medical (Retired) was commissioned in the Army Medical Corps in 1948 and after a brief period of service in the Army was seconded to the Indian Air Force. Air Vice Marshal Murthy, in spite of his being older in age had the determination to go through the flying training in 1950 and became a fully qualified pilot of the Indian Air Force. He was one of the first few

Medical Officers in country to have achieved this distinction.

Air Vice Marshal Murthy was sent abroad for post-graduate studies from where he qualified as a Otolaryngologist and he was classified in this specialty in 1960. While serving at the Institute of Aviation Medicine, he designed an 'Anechoic' Chamber for a specialised examination of pilots which resulted in considerable saving of foreign exchange.

In 1978 Air Vice Marshal Murthy was appointed as President of Central Medical Establishment of the Indian Air Force dealing with medical evaluation of civil and military aircrew where he performed a sensitive task in a judicious and tactful manner and brought about further improvements. He was appointed as a consultant in the specialty of Otolaryngology for the Armed Forces in view of his long experience. The Officer's contribution in the field of Aviation Otolaryngology has been most outstanding and meritorious. His extensive research on the effects of noise, vibration and disorientation in flight and on ground has been a tremendous help in improving the flying and operational efficiency.

Air Vice Marshal Vajjha Sriman Narayana Murthy (Retired) has thus rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Kanwar Iqbal Singh Chhabra, AVSM, was commissioned in the Indian Force in April 1950. During his long service career, he had distinguished himself not only by professional competence but also by outstanding administrative ability. He is a graduate of Defence Services Staff College and also the National Defence College.

His command appointments include the command of a TAC during Indo-Pak conflict in December 1971, where he displayed exceptional skill in planning, supervision leadership. He achieved outstanding results by blunting the massive enemy attacks ChhambJaurian sector and contributed to the destruction of ground forces and elimination of enemy air opposition in the theatre.

In recent years, Air Marshal Chhabra, has held with distinction the important appointments of Senior Officer Administration at Central Air Command and Air Officer Commanding, HQ Maritime Air Operations where he achieved excellence in cooperation with the Navy and with connected civil agencies.

In his present appointment as Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Maintenance Command which carries out overhaul and repair of aircraft, aero-engines, and ground equipment and specialist vehicles, Air Marshal through effective and efficient management of manpower and material resources brought about significant improvements in the output. This has directly contributed in improving serviceability and output of operational units.

Air Marshal Kanwar Iqbal Singh Chhabra has thus rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Marshal Minoo Jehangir Dotiwalla was commissioned in the Flying Brand of the Indian Air Force in April 1950. During the earlier years of his career he has been deputed for courses such as the Pilot Attack Instructors' Course in the UK, the Defence Services Staff College and National Defence College. In his subsequent assignments, he had brought the full measure of his knowledge and experience to bear on the performance of duties entrusted to him, thereby enhancing the quality of his output.

Air Marshal Dotiwalla has successfully held a variety of field as well as Staff appointments. He commanded a Wing with distinction and, later, as Director of Air Force Works and Director of Personnel (Officers) at Air HQs, he had displayed a perception of the nuances involved in directing activities of these administrative Directorate. His tenure as Director of Personnel (Officers) coincided with a period when various studies and decisions were required to be taken in relation to the career profiles and promotion prospects of officers of different branches. By virtue of his analytical prowess, foresight and able direction he successfully paved the way for several proposals relating to personnel. He continued to display outstanding qualities of leadership and professional competence in the execution of important projects as Senior Air Staff Officer Training Command, Commandant National Defence Academy and Senior Air Staff Officer Eastern Air Command.

Air Marshal Minoo Jehangir Dotiwalla has thus rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order

Air Marshal Satish Chandra Lal was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in Technical Signals Branch, now Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics), in the year 1950.

A competent Technical Officer and a versatile field Engineer, he has excelled particularly in Installation and System Engineering activities. He served with distinction first as Director of Plans Air Defence Ground Environment System and later as Assistant Chief of Air Staff (Systems).

In 1981 he was specially selected to join the Radar and Communication Project Organisation, a Systems Engineering Group entrusted with the responsibility of planning, installation and commissioning of reliable and secure tropo, micro-wave and Radar Facilities in the Air Defence Ground Environment System. By displaying a high degree of initiative backed by sound technical knowledge and experience, he was able to complete the task of site survey and system engineering of far flung, remote and inaccessible mountainous areas of our country as per prescribed time schedule. Similarly in the selection, installation and commissioning of High Power Radars and associated peripherals, he effectively organised the installation and maintenance teams to undertake activities in the field.

Air Marshal Satish Chandra Lal has thus rendered distinguished service of exceptional order.

Air Marshal Kapil Dev Chadha, VM, was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in 1950 and has held important Command and Staff assignments. He commanded with distinction an operational squadron and a Flying Station. His important staff assignments at Air HQ included Director of Operations (Transport and Maritime) and Assistant Chief of Air Staff (Plans).

Air Marshal Chadha, himself a graduate of Defence Services Staff College and National Defence College, has held the prestigious assignments of Chief Instructor at Defence Services Staff College and Senior Directing Staff at National Defence College. To both these appointments be brought a high degree of practical wisdom and expertise based on his vast fund of experience and knowledge.

As Director of Operations (Transport and Maritime), Air Marshal Chadha was responsible for formulation of policy, planning and control of the entire air transport, helicopter and Maritime Operations. He was instrumental in the formulation of plans to achieve optimum utilisation of the transport fleet.

Air Marshal Chadha while holding the appointment of Assistant Chief of Air Staff (Plans) was responsible for forecasting, planning and formulating Air Staff Requirements for new aircraft and equipment for the Indian Air Force. His contribution in the areas of 'Long Term Financial Plans for the IAF', 'Induction of Medium Transport Aircraft', 'Aircraft for VVIP duties' and 'Control of Air Force Projects' has been particularly noteworthy.

On promotion to the rank of Air Marshal, he was posted as Air Officer in-charge Administration at Air Headquarters. This sphere of responsibility covers a broad spectrum like organisation, Ceremonials, Medical Services, Work Services, Administration and financial control of various Air Force Welfare Funds and schemes, law and order, security of Air Force installations and management of Public Funds of the Air Force. In each one of these areas, Air Marshal Chadha has made a mark by his exceptional professional competence and qualities of leadership.

Air Marshal Kapil Dev Chadha has thus rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Vice Marshal (now Air Marshal) Shri Krishna Chandra Gupta, VSM, was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in March, 1949. He has held a wide variety of command and staff assignments during his long meritorious service in the Air Force and distinguished himself not only by professional competence but also by outstanding administrative ability and today, he has the singular distinction of being not only the senior most in his branch but also the most experienced in the field of Administration.

He commanded with distinction an NCC Group and an Air Force Station where he accomplished very high standards of training and enhanced all round efficiency. His important staff appointments include Command Air Traffic Control Officer of Central Air Command, Deputy Director of Personal Services, Director of Organisation at Headquarters and Senior Officer-in-Charge Administration of Eastern Air Command and Western Air Command.

Air Vice Marshal (now Air Marshal) Gupta has the distinction of holding coveted appointments of SOA of two different major operational commands one after other. In both the commands he applied himself with total involvement to the task improving the general administrative standards and welfare activities. With his drive, imagination, leadership and exceptional organisational ability, he was able to achieve very high standards in multifarious spheres within very short tune.

Air Vice Marshal (now Air Marshal) Shri Krishna Chandra Gupta has thus rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Erasseri Pathayaprayil Radhakrishnan Nair (3837) Flying (Navigator) joined the Air Force in April, 1950 and has completed 33 years of distinguished service. He has an excellent record of flying, with the highest flying rating of Category 'A' and Qualified Instructors' Category 'A2'. He has command the prestigious Unit Nav and Signal School. He has been Air Crew Examiner and has flown over 4500 hours in various roles like Maritime Support, Transport Support and Instruction.

In 973, he was specially selected to be the Base Commander of Air Force Academy and was directly responsible for not only administration of the station but also the rapid build up of the technical and operational facilities by the target date set for the inauguration of the Academy by the President, a task which he accomplished under the most trying conditions.

Subsequently Air Marshal Nair was appointed Senior Air Staff Officer of Headquarters Maritime Air Operations to shoulder the new and most important responsibility of planning and coordination of Air Operations in consultation with the Navy and executing the task of heli support to the ONGC, which he has been expanding at a very fast rate.

In December, 1975, after graduating from the National Defence College, he was appointed as the Senior Air and Admin Staff Officer, Headquarters Maintenance Command. Due to his personal example, tremendous capacity for sustained hard work and methodical approach, he established harmonious and effective management of men and material, which had direct bearing on serviceability and out put of operational units in the Air Force. After a stint as Senior Directing Staff at National Defence College, he was posted as Air Officer Incharge Administration. During his short stay of just eight months as AOA, he excelled in his spheres of responsibility covering organization, works services, legal duties, security and accounting services of the Air Force.

In his present appointment, as Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Training Command, Air Marshal Nair has brought about significant improvements in the quality of training in various training establishments. This has resulted in qualitative improvements in the limited human resources of the Air Force.

Air Marshal Nair in his long and distinguished career in the Air Force, has displayed qualities of dynamic leadership, and organizational, managerial and professional competence of a very high order.

Air Marshal Erasseri Pathayaprayil Radhakrishnan Nair has thus rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Danis Anthony La Fontaine AVSM VM (3844) Flying (Pilot) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in April, 1950. During his long service career he has held a variety of Command and staff appointments with distinction at various levels including the policy making level.

His Command appointments include the Command of two frontline fighter Squadrons and two major operational bases when he accomplished high rate of aircraft serviceability, enhanced operational preparedness and all round efficiency.

As Chief Instructor at Air Force Academy on its inauguration, Air Marshal DA La Fontaine was personally responsible for meticulous planning and methodical move of the entire Flying Training School from Jodhpur to the Academy, with speed and purpose. He, as Chief Instructor, reoriented the training pattern in the Air Force and designed the major training directives for the Academy which for the first time in the Air Force fixed the principles, standards and techniques for teaching in the air and on the ground.

After successfully graduating from the National Defence College, he was appointed as Air 1 at Headquarters Western Air Command, and later as Air Officer Commanding of a major base in the western sector. In these appointments he made substantial contribution in achieving optimum utilization of fighter forces under his command. Air Marshal DA La Fontaine was Senior Air Staff Officer Western Air Command since December, 1978, until he took over as Air Officer Incharge Personnel in Jan 83. During this period he displayed qualities of dynamic leadership, coupled with professional and managerial competence,

Air Marshal Danis Anthony La Fontaine AVSM VM has thus rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Jagjit Singh Sandhanwalia (3810) was commissioned in the Technical Branch of the Indian Air Force in January, 1950. He has held a wide variety of Command and Staff assignments during his long and meritorious service in the Air Force and has distinguished himself not only by professional competence but also by outstanding administrative ability.

The important Staff/Command appointments held by him include that of Chief Technical Officer of two major wings, Assistant Air Attaché USSR, Commanding Officer of Central Servicing Development Organisation and of a Base Repair Depot, Senior Maintenance Staff Officer of two commands and Project Director of Radar and Communication Project Office.

During his command of Central Servicing and Development Organisation the servicing and maintenance schedules were rationalized for various types of aircraft in use. The 2nd line servicing cycle of Avro 748 was successfully extended from a periodicity of 125 hours to 750 hours. This resulted in saving considerable number of man hours and increasing availability of aircraft. Planned servicing schedules were drawn up and made applicable for various types of aircraft.

After being trained for the 1st and 2nd line Maintenance of AN-12 aircraft in USSR, he was specially assigned the task of setting up such facilities in India. Later as Officer Commanding of the BRD, he improved upon the standard of Maintenance practices, changed over to possible indigenous substitutes and ensured optimum utilization of available technical facilities/equipment in the Depot, as a result of which the ferrying of aircraft to USSR and back for Maintenance of aircraft was reduced to the barest minimum, thereby saving substantial amount of foreign exchange.

As Senior Maintenance Staff Officer of two Commands, he achieved substantial qualitative improvements in the Maintenance standards. He was extremely successful in bringing about significant changes in scientific and methodical manner, covering various aspects of modern technology and logistics support.

Presently, Air Marshal Sandhanwalia is serving as Project Director of Radar and Communication Project Organisation and has achieved the rare distinction in planning, installation and commissioning of tropo, microwave and radar facilities, for Air Defence Ground Environment system. He has been very successful in achieving a high state of maintenance of all installations, including these located at far flung, remote and inaccessible mountainous terrain.

Air Marshal Jagjit Singh Sandhanwalia has thus rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Vice Marshal Madan Lal Sethi (4009) Flying (Navigator) was commissioned in January, 1951. Having attended MR Bomber Courses in UK, he was one of the first two crews, which established the nucleus of the newly formed Jet Bomber Conversion Unit in India. He has over 3200 hours of accident free flying to his credit.

He was amongst the first batch of Air Force Personnel to be trained on Surface to Air Guided Weapons in USSR. Later as Officer Commanding of an SAGW operational Squadron, undeterred by hardships, his unit achieved the distinction of being the first unit to be operational.

He attained Directing Staff Grading in the Defence Services Staff College and subsequently served as a Directing Staff in this prestigious institution of the country. He is also a graduate of the National Defence College. In recognition of his experience and instructional capability of exceptionally high standard, he was selected as leader of the Training Team which established an Air Wing of the Staff College in a friendly foreign country.

He has held several Staff appointments in Commands/Air Headquarters. As Joint Director Navigation, he formulated categorization scheme for navigators and Air Traffic Controllers. He was instrumental in the formation of the integrated Area Control Center in J&K.

He was specially selected to Command the largest ground training establishment in the Air Force, where his performance was creditable. Later as Director (Military) in the Cabinet Secretariat he performed the functions related to the secretariat of the Chiefs of Staff Committee very efficiently. On promotion to the rank or Air Vice Marshal in April, 1981, he was appointed as Director of Intelligence, in the Air Force. His approach towards handling of extremely sensitive matters of highly classified nature, like Air Intelligence, Security and vigilance has been highly methodical and systematic. His direction in a field which has vital bearing in the functional efficiency of the service and demands quick and correct decisions has been of immense value in toning up the security and intelligence environment throughout the Air Force.

Air Vice Marshal Sethi, with his dynamic, pragmatic approach, determination and selfless devotion to service, has displayed brilliant and outstanding qualities of leadership, managerial skill and organizing abilities.

Air Vice Marshal Madan Lal Sethi, AVSM has thus rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Vice Marshal Jugal Kishor Kapur, AVSM, VSM, AE (M) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in January 1951. During 32 yours of his service career, the officer held various staff and other key appointments. including that of Chief Technical & Inspection Officer at Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd, Officer Commanding of a major Base Repair Depot, Director of Engineering and later ACAS (Eng) at Air headquarters. He successfully completed the Post Graduate course at College of Aeronautics, Cranfield (UK) in 1963. A keen sportsman, he represented India in basket ball in 1st Asian Games in 1951.

As Deputy Director (Guided Weapons) in the Directorate of Technical Development and Production (Air), he was largely responsible for the development and establishing indigenous manufacture or a large number of items for the Guided weapons System. In recognition of this effort, he was awarded Vishisht Seva Medal in 1974. As Officer Commanding of a major Base Repair Depot, he applied himself with exemplary zeal and shouldered the responsibility with a high degree of confidence. He not only brought about remarkable improvements in the functioning of the BRD, but also more than doubled the production of aeroengines during the very first year of his command. But for his complete dedication in the face of serious constraints, it would have been difficult to complete the assigned task. For this outstanding achievement he was awarded Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in 1980.

First as Director of Engineering 'B' and later as Director of Engineering 'A', he achieved exceptional results in formulation and implementation of policies regarding all aspects of maintenance. In July, 1982 on promotion AVM Kapur took over as ACAS (Eng) and totally involved himself in the prolonged negotiations with Mirage-2000 suppliers. He was instrumental in securing significant concessions from the French suppliers. His sound technical knowledge and professionalism of the highest order assisted the negotiation team in arriving at reasonable prices of a large number of training aids and other equipment.

Air Vice Marshal Kapur established himself as an officer with outstanding professional skill and has worked throughout with a spirit of dedication and exemplary devotion to duty.

Air Vice Marshal Jugal Kishor Kapur, AVSM, VSM has thus rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Vice Marshal Johnny William Greene AVSM VrC VM (4093) Flying (Pilot) was commissioned in the Air Force in 1951, and has held important command and staff appointments, including command of three fighter squadrons and an operational Wing, Director of Fight Safety and Senior Air Staff Officer of an operational command and Assistant Chief of Air Staff (Plans). He held all these post with rare distinction.

An outstanding fighter pilot, AVM Greene qualified as pilot attack instructor and day fighter leader from U.K. He took active part in the Goa operation, Chinese aggression in 1962 and Indo-Pak conflicts of 1965 and 1971. During these operations his abilities in flying and leadership, both in the air and on ground, were an inspiring example of devotion and worthy of others to emulate. Early in his career, he was especially selected for specialist course on Flight Safety in the USA.

After graduating from the National Defence College in 1976, as Senior Air Staff Officer of a major operational command, he enhanced the operational combat capability of various elements, and significantly improved the operational preparedness of the command.

As Director of Air Staff Requirements, and presently as Assistant Chief of Air Staff (Plans), he has enhanced the operational preparedness handsomely in planning, induction and absorption of new and latest types of aircraft, weapons and complex equipment in the Air Force. Due to his remarkable skills, meticulous planning and clear thinking he has been outstandingly successful in finding viable solutions to extremely intricate problems which enhanced the defensive capability of the nation as a whole.

His sustained record of brilliant performance over a long service of 32 years and dedicated contribution in all appointments so far, are in the best traditions of the Indian Air Force.

Air Vice Marshal Johnny William Greene AVSM VrC VM has thus rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Prem Pal Singh MVC AVSM (3871) was commissioned in the Flying Branch of the Air Force on 15th April, 1950. Initially, he served as a pilot in transport squadrons and later converted on to Jet bomber aircraft. During the 1965 war with Pakistan, as the Commanding Officer of a Canberra Bomber Squadron, he was awarded Maha Vir Chakra for gallantry, and bravery. Subsequently, he served as the Directing Staff of the Defence Services Staff College.

In 1971, Air Marshal Prem Pal Singh was the Staff Officer incharge of operations at Command Headquarters. He meticulously planned the bomber operations in the western sector as well as against Pakistani occupation forces in Bangla Desh and thus contributed to the success of our bomber operations in 1971. For his leadership, drive and devotion to duty in peace as well as war time, he was awarded Ati Vishisht Seva Medal.

In 1979 after a successful tenure as an Air Attaché, France and Air Officer Commanding of a major Wing, he was posted to Air Headquarters as Assistant Chief of

the Air Staff Flight Safety and Inspection. During this period, in addition to his Air Force duties he shouldered the responsibilities as the President of the Services Sports Control Board. Besides he was also selected as one of the Vice Presidents of Indian Olympic Associations as well as member of the working Committee of many other sports federations.

For the conduct of IX Asian Games, he was appointed the Chief Administrator of the Prestigious Jawahar Lal Nehru Stadium. This task involved dexterous handling and coordination between multifarious agendas and was executed in a commendable manner.

On promotion to the rank of Air Marshal, he was posted as Senior Air Staff Officer Central Air Command, an appointment which ha presently holds. By his leadership, drive and devotion to duty Air Marshal Pram Pal Singh has rendered distinguished Service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Subrarnaniam Raghavendran, AVSM (3840) F(P) was commissioned in the Flying Branch of the Air Force on 15 Apr 50. Immediately on completion of his

initial training he was assigned to flying duties in an operational squadron and has since

handled a variety of flying assignments at various levels. As a competent fighter pilot he has commanded successively and successfully a fighter squadron and two major fighter bases.

After undergoing n course at the National Defence College in 1973, Air Marshal Raghavendran was posted on staff appointments first at Air HQ and later as Senior Air Staff Officer at HQ Trg Command. His subsequent appointments included Director of Training, Assistant Chief of Air Staff Personnel and Assistant Chief of Air Staff Operations at Air HQ. He was then posted as Air Officer Commanding J&K before taking over as Senior Air Staff Officer at HQ WAC, the oldest and the most important of the Operational Commands of the Air Force. He is presently holding this appointment and is also functioning as AOC-in-C, pending selection and posting of a permanent incumbent.

A keen, knowledgeable and highly experienced fighter pilot, Air Marshal Raghavanderan has shown immense capacity for planning of operational matters and carrying them towards successful implementation. While holding the appointment of Assistant Chief of Air Staff Operations at Air HQ he was chosen to coordinate all arrangements in connection with the flying activities entrusted to the Air Force during the Commonwealth Heads of Govt Meet. His handling of this demanding assignment won him all round acclamation.

Throughout his career Air Marshal Raghavaendran has exhibited exemplary devotion to duty, professionalism of the highest caliber and an immense capacity to organize diverse activities relating to operations and the execution of roles allotted to the Air Force. Air Marshal Subrarnaniam Raghavendran, AVSM has thus rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional manner.

Air Marshal Puran Singh Bajwa (3520) Medical was commissioned in September, 1940. During his service of over 36 years, he held a number of important assignments such as Officer Commanding of two prominent AF Hospitals and Principal Medical Officer of Headquarters Western Air Command. He is presently holding the appointment of Director of Medical Services at Air Headquarters.

As Commanding Officer of Command Hospital at Bangalore his professional and systematic approach earned him a high reputation and esteem from the medical staff as well as from the patients. His administrative and organising ability raised the efficiency of the hospital to a very high standard.

As Principal Medical Officer, Western Air Command, by virtues of his dynamic .leadership and professional competence of a vary high order, he brought about visible improvements in preventable diseases, high standard of hygiene and sanitation and efficient working of maternity and child welfare centres at every station in the Command. He also ensured that the medical staff were closely involved in flight safety programmes of the Air Force. His meticulous planning, deep personal involvement and result oriented approach led to significant improvement in the optimum use of existing medical facilities.

By his devotion to duty, professional acumen and administrative abilities, he has set a worthy example for other medical officers to emulate. Air Marshal Puran Singh Bajwa has thus rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Vice Marshal Narayanan Krishnan Nair VSM (4075) AE(L) was commissioned in the Air Force in January ,1951. A graduate of Electrical Engineering and also a Member of Institute of Electrical and Technical Engineers, he has successfully undergone a number of professional courses in India and abroad, including Technical Training Course in USA and Instrument Design and manufacturing course in UK.

Whilst serving on the Staff of Headquarters Maintenance Command, he was responsible for the high standard, of maintenance of instruments and electrical Systems at Depots under the Command, for which he was decorated with the award of Vishisht Seva Medal.

During his service career, he has held a number of important Command and Staff appointments, which include Air Officer Commanding of a Major Air Force Station,Joint Director Missiles and Radar, Director Maintenance Planning and Director of Signals at Air HQs.

An officer possessing high technical acumen, professional skill, creative mind, progressive leadership qualities and sound organising ability, he is totally dedicated to the service.

By his outstanding contributions, Air Vice Marshal Narayanan Krishnan Nair VSM has rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Vice Marshal Daya Shanker Mishra AVSM VM (4067) AE (M) was commissioned in the Air Force in January 1951 and retired in Mar 84. During his long service of over 33 years, the officer held various command and staff appointments, including that of Officer Commanding of a major Base Repair Depot and Director of Engineering at Air Headquarters. He also served on deputation to HAL as General Manager. He successfully completed the post graduate course at College of Aeronautics, Cranfield (UK) in 1962. As Senior Technical Staff officer and Chief of Aircraft production in a Base Repair Depot, ha served with great distinction in recognition of which he was awarded Vayu Sena, Medal in the year 1972. As Officer Commanding of a Major Base Repair Depot at its formation stage, he applied himself with exemplary zeal and shouldered the responsibilities with a high degree of confidence, he not only completed the formation of the unit in a smooth and efficient manner, but also more than doubled the stipulated production target of aeroengines during the very second year of his Command. But for his complete dedication in the face of serious constraints, it would have been difficult to completer the assigned task. For this outstanding achievement he was awarded Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in 1978. Later as Director of Engineering 'A', AVM Mishra made significant contribution in formulation and implementation of policies regarding all aspects of maintenance.

Through professional skill, dedication and exemplary devotion to duty Air Vice Marshal Daya Shanker Mishra has rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Ripu Daman Sahni, was commissioned in the Flying Branch of the Indian Air Force in 1950. In his long and distinguished career, spread over 35 years, he has held important Command as well as Staff appointments including command of an operational air base in the Western Sector. Subsequently, he graduated from the National Defence College and has since been assigned several important staff assignments where he put into use his rich experience, competence, meticulous planning and professional expert ise in such a manner that difficult tasks were accomplished to the entire satisfaction of the Air Force.

On promotion to the rank of Air Marshal in January 1984 he took over charge as Air Officer-in-Charge Personnel at Air Headquarters at a time when a number of schemes of far reaching implications relating to career prospects of Air Force personnel were to be implemented. It was mainly due to his excellent leadership, clear and far-sighted guidance and deep sense of personal involvement that often apparently conflicting situations were resolved expeditiously and smoothly in his typically quite and efficient manner. He also made valuable contributions towards acceptable and workable solutions to the twin problems of stagnation and supersession that the Air Force has had to face in recent years.

As Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Central Air Command, by his dynamic leadership and outstanding management of resources, he has enabled the Command to fulfill all its operational tasks despite diminishing spares. Yet another landmark of his current tenure is re-equipment of a number of Central Air Command squadrons, with Sutlej, Gajraj and Vajra aircraft. This task involved dexterous handling and has been executed in a commendable manner. This has significantly enhanced the operational capabilities of not only his Command but also the entire Air Force.

Air Marshal Ripu Daman Sahni, AVSM, has rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Man Mohan Singh was commissioned in the Flying Branch of the Indian Air Force in January 1951 and has held important Command and Staff appointments, including Command of three Fighter squadrons and two frontline Fighter Air Bases, Senior Air Staff Officer of an operational Command and Air Officer-in-Charge Personnel at Air Headquarters. He held all these posts in an extremely distinguished manner.

An outstanding Fighter Pilot, Air Marshal MM Singh took active part in Indo-Pak conflict during 1971 and was awarded Vir Chakra for gallantry and leadership in the face of the enemy. Subsequently, while commanding a Fighter Station in the Eastern Sector, he set to work with commendable zeal and perseverance despite numerous difficulties and achieve a high state of operational preparedness of the Base. For his outstanding leadership in flying, and application of competent administrative and technical knowledge to enhance combat efficiency of his Station, he was awarded AVSM.

After graduating from the National Defence College, he was posted to be Senior Staff appointment in WAC and designed an integrated air-defence system that continues in practice to this day. Later, as Senior Air Staff Officer of a major operational Command, he was instrumental in enhancing the operational combat capability of various elements and significantly improved the operational preparedness of the Command.

On promotion to the rank of Air Marshal in 1984, he took over as Air Officer-in-Charge Personnel at Air Headquarters. He continued to display rare qualities of leadership, professional competence and exceptional acumen for planning and execution of tasks of his Branch.

Air Marshal Man Mohan Singh, AVSM, VrC, has, thus, rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Kuldip Singh Bhatia was commissioned in the Technical Branch of the Indian Air Force in 1951. He has held a wide variety of Command and Staff assignments during his long and meritorious service in the Air Force and has distinguished himself by rare professional competence and outstanding administrative ability.

The important Staff/Command appointments held by him include that of Chief Engineering Officer of a major Fighter station. In recognition of his exceptional ability to combine technical with managerial competence, he was subsequently given Command of an important Base Repair Depot. As the BRD Commander he accomplished all tasks ahead of schedule.

On promotion to the rank of Air Marshal in February 1985, he took over as the Project Director of Radar and Communication Project Organisation. As a competent Technical Officer and a versatile field engineer, he has displayed a high degree of initiative in planning and installation of the trope, microwave and radar facilities. Thus he has been instrumental in significantly enhancing Air Defence Ground Environment capabilities of the IAF. His selfless devotion to duty has earned him the admiration and respect of the personnel who have had to perform field tasks even in remote and inaccessible mountainous terrain.

Air Marshal Kuldip Singh Bhatia AVSM & Bar has, rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Vir Narain Flying (Navigator) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in January 1951. Since then he has held with distinction a wide variety of assignments. As a Navigator he has the singular distinction of having commanded an operational flying station. In all the posts held by him, during the span of 35 years of service so far, he has distinguished himself not only by rare professional competence but also by outstanding administrative ability. He is a graduate of the National Defence College.

In recent years, Air Marshal Vir Narain, has held with distinction important appointments of Senior Air Staff Officer at HQ Maritime Air Operations, and Air Attaché in Moscow. In both these assignments, he exhibited a very high degree of professional skill and competence. Subsequently, as Senior Air and Administration Officer at HQ Maintenance Command, through effective management of resources, brought about significant overall improvement in the output of various Base Repair and Equipment Depots within the Command. This directly contributed to improving the serviceability of Operational Units. In recognition of the excellent services rendered by him he was, on promotion to the rank of Air Marshal, appointed as Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Training Command.

Air Marshal Vir Narain has, rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Vice Marshal Chotey Lal Gupta was commissioned in the Accounts Branch of Indian Air Force in 1955. Throughout his service, he has distinguished himself in all the Staff appointments held at Stations, Commands and Air Headquarters.

Because of his wide experience in the field of finance he was appointed as Joint Director Accounts in 1980 and was subsequently elevated as Director of Accounts on promotion to the rank of Air Commodore. For nearly a decade he has been virtually the moving spirit behind all important Accounting policies. This has improved the Accounting services in IAF to an exceptionally high standard. For having displayed rare qualities in the field of financial management and planning and co-ordination, he was appointed as Director Financial Planning in 1984, when the Air Force five year plan for 1985-90 was under preparation. Judicious assessment of resources, critical analysis of various projections and close interaction by him with different Branches and Directorates enabled Air Headquarters to present a sound and logical Plan document.

The Revenue Budget of IAF was fully utilised largely because of efforts in constantly monitoring expenditure. New techniques and methodology have also been developed by him to enable critical and effective scrutiny of HAL financial proposals which have paid rich dividends in the form of substantial savings to the Air Force.

Air Vice Marshal Chotey Lal Gupta has rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Gyanendra Nath Kunzru, joined service on 1 November 1951 and qualified as a Specialist in Pathology in 1957. He obtained MD in 1965.

In November, 1979 he was posted as Commanding Officer of a Air Force Hospital in the Eastern Sector. By his dynamism, and leadership qualities he improved the standard of medicare and overall state of hospital.

After taking over as addl DGAFMS, he set himself to the task of reorganisation of the Office of DGAFMS. The implementation of the recommendations made by him will bring long term improvement in functional efficiency of the office of the DGAFMS. He has been an allround sportsman representing State teams in National Championships in three different games viz. Cricket, Tennis and Table-Tennis.

Air Marshal Brijpal Singh Sikand was commissioned in the IAF on 15 October 1950. He has held a number of field appointments including command of a fighter Squadron, Tactical Air Centre and two operational Air Bases with distinction. On promotion to the rank of AVM in January, 1981, he was appointed as Air Officer Commanding, Jammu & Kashmir. During his tenure as Assistant Chief of Air Staff, Flight Safety & Inspection, at Air HQ, he initiated policies which resulted in a decrease in the accident rate of the Air Force and ensured a safe flying environment. Later, on promotion to the rank of Air Marshal in November 1984, he was posted as Senior Air Staff Officer, (later re-designated as Chief of Staff) of a major Operational Command.

Air Marshal Surinder Kumar Mahra (4197) F (P) was commissiond in the IAF on 15 Nov 1952. He has held varied command and staff appointments including command of a supersonic fighter Squadron, two operational Bases, Director Air Staff Inspection, Director Personnel (officers) and Assistant chief of the Air Staff. In his outstanding fiying career, he has logged about 4000 hours on fighter aircraft. Under his inspiring leadership the supersonic Squadron which he commanded, achieved a high state of operational readiness and was awarded the Air Force Instrument Rating Trophy twice. In recognition of this achievement, he was awarded VM in 1971

On 22/23 Oct 75 the Air Base which he was commanding at that time, was hit by a cyclone, Air Marshal Mehra with complete disregard of his own safety personally guided rescue operations and saved a number of aircraft form total damage. For his high degree of leadership in minimising the damage he was awarded AVSM in 1976.

A graduate of Air Command and Staff College Course in USA, he has he has held the prestigious assignment of Directing Staff at Defence Service Staff College, Wellington. After a successful tenure as Air Attache in USSR he was posted as Director Operatios (Offensive) and was responsible for formulation of policy planning and contoral of the entire offensive operations of the Air Force. As Director Personnel (Officers) in the rank of Air Vice Marshal his mature and meticulous planning and inspiring leadership led to excellent execution of all the personal mangement functions relating to officers of Air Force, including career planning, promotions and placement. Later as Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Operations) with his deep understanding of all facets of air operations and dedicated hard work he significantly enhanced the overall operational preparedness of the Air Force.

On promotion to the rank of Air Marshal, he took over as Deputy Chief of the Air Staff at Air HQ. In this assignment he has continued to display qualities of extreme dedication and professional excellence. The smooth induction and absorption of the latest types of aircraft, weapons and sophisticated equipments is mainly attributable to his exception acumen for planning and clear perception of the long term operational requirements of the Air Force.

His continued record of brilliant performance over a career span of 35 years and dedicated contribution in all the appoinments held by him are in the best traditions of the IAF. Air Marshal SK Mehra has thus rendered long and distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Pynummoottil Simon George was commissioned in the flying branch of the Air Force in March 1952. In his long and distinguished career of over 34 years, he has held important command as well as staff appointments, including Command of a fighter- Squadron and an Operational Air Base. An experienced Flying Instructor, he was specially chosen for deputation to the UAR to impart flying training.

For displaying exceptional qualities of supervision and leadership, he was awarded AVSM in January, 1982.

In April 1984, he was specially chosen as the first Inspector General of the Air Force. This challenging assignment involves evaluation of the operational and combat worthiness of all elements of the Air Force and the supporting maintenance and administrative infrastructure. Air Marshal George, has set about his new task with zeal and purposefulness, in order to create impartial and objective evaluation machinery.

Air Marshal Chandrakant Shantaram Raje was commissioned in the Air Force in 1951. During his long and illustrious career he has held number of important operational, instructional and staff appointments.

For his meticulous planning and foresight in undertaking trials of transport aircraft and evolving new techniques for supply, dropping and landing in the most difficult and demanding landing grounds during the 1962 operations, he was awarded AVSM.

After completing his tenure as Operation Manager in Aviation Research Centre, he took over as Director General of Civil Aviation in January 1984. He was instrumental in restructuring and streamlining the organisation to meet the country's fast growing civil aviation requirements.

He also acted as an Adviser to the Government of India on policy am technical matter relating to civil aviation.

Air Marshal Nirmal Chandra Suri (4236) Flying (Pilot) was commissioned in the Flying Branch of the IAF in March,1952 and has hold importent Command and Staff appointmonts, including Command of two fighter Squadrons and two frontline fightor Air Bases, Director of Intelligence at Air Headquartoras, Senior Air Staff Officer of an Operational Command and Air Officer-incharge Personnel at Air HQ. He approached and executed duties of all those posts in a positive and noteworthy manner.

An outstanding fightor pilot, having logged over 5500 hours of flying, he is a Pilot Attack Instructor and Qualifed Flying Instructor holding an A-1 category. Due to his professional excellence he was posted as an Instructor to the Flying Instructors' School and later as an Examiner in the Aircrew Examining Board. He is also one of the founder members of the Directorate of Air Staff Inspection.

Air Marshal NC Suri was awarded the Vayu Sena Medal for personally supervisinng the modification for release of armament store from the type of aircraft in the Squadron he was commanding. This major modification not only enhanced the power of the IAF but also saved a large amount of foreign exchange. Subsquently, while commanding a major fighter base he set to work with commendable zeal and dedication and despite numerous difficulties achieved a high state of operational preparedness of the base. During his command, his Base won almost all the trophies instituted by the Command for 3 years continuously. For his outstanding leadership in flying and application of competent administrative and technical knowledge to enhance combat efficiency of the Station, he was awarded AVSM.

A graduate in Management Studies from Administrative Staff College, Hyderabad and also from National Defence College, he took over as Senior Air Staff Officer of a major Operational Command in February, 1912. As Senior Air Staff Officer ho was instrumental in enhancing the operational combat capability of various elements and thereby improved the operational preparedness of the Command.

On promotion to the rank of Air Marshal in 1985, he took over as Air Officer-in-charge Personnel at Air HQ. In this appointment, his sphere of responsibility covered a broad spectrum related to career profiles and promotion prospects of all personal of the IAF. By virtue of his vast experience analytical ability, foresight and able direction, he has given a new dimension to the employment and utilisation of manpower in the Air Force. He has continued to display rare qualities of leadership, professional competence and exceptional acumen for planning and execution of the task of his Branch.

Air Marshal NC Suri has thus rendered long and distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Jagdish Kumar Seth was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in January 1953. During his distinguished career, he has held many command and staff appointments. In his outstanding flying career, he has flown over 7300 accident free hours, which include 1570 hours of operational flying and 1400 instructional hours.

In August 83 he was appointed Director Personnel (Officers) at Air Headquarters. Due to his meticulous planning and exceptional managerial skills, all personnel management functions including career planning, promotions and placements relating to officers of Air Force were successfully executed. He was assigned Command of Air Force Flying Academy in March 1985. With his deep understanding of all facets of flying training, he set exacting standards for this establishment and with his dedication and leadership ensured that they were achieved thereby bringing about a qualitative improvement in the standard of all trainee pilots passing our from there.

On promotion to the rank of Air Marshal in February 1986 he was appointed Air Officer Incharge Administration at Air Headquarters. In this appointment his sphere of responsibility extended to works services, administration and control of various welfare funds & schemes, discipline, security and management of public funds. With his professional competence and dedicated bard work he effected allround improvements in each of these areas.

Since July 1986 he has held the appointment of Senior Air Staff Officer of a major Operational Command. By his professional advice born out of his vast flying experience and determined direction of Air operations, he has improved the operational capability of the Air Defence and strike forces of the Command. Air Marshal Jagdish Kumar Seth, AVSM, VM has thus rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Partha Kumar Dey, was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in January, 1953. In his long and distinguished career spread over 34 years, he has held important command and staff appointments. A graduate of National Defence College, he has held the prestigious assignment of Directing Staff of Defence Services Staff College, Wellington.

After a successful tenure as Air Attaché in USA he took over Command of a major Fighter Base. Under his inspiring leadership and guidance, the station was brought to a new peak of operational preparedness. He also effected noticeable improvement in the administrative, sports and welfare facilities of the station.

On promotion to the rank of Air Marshal in July 1986 he was posted as Senior Air Staff Officer of Eastern Air Command and later Chief of Staff at Western Air Command. In both these appointments he was instrumental in enhancing the operational preparedness and combat capability of various elements of both the Commands by virtue of his own professional competence, deep knowledge of Air Operations and dynamic approach to solving problems. His current appointment as Director General of the newly created Defence Planning Staff is a further testimony to his analytical and conceptual capabilities.

Air Marshal Partha Kumar Dey, AVSM has thus rendered distinguished service of the exceptional order.

Air Marshal Krishnaswamy Subramanian was commissioned in the Indian Air Force on 12 January 1952. He is a qualified Navigation Instructor and has over 5300 hours of flying experience. He is a graduate from Defence Services Staff College and National Defence College. He was awarded Vayu Sena Medal in 1966 for operational flying carried out during 1962 Chinese aggression in Ladakh Sector and Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in 1977 for the work done as Joint Director Plans at Air Headquarters. He has held important staff and command appointments.

As Chairman of the Air Force Cell of Fourth Pay Commission, Air Marshal Subramanian effectively interacted with the Chairmen of other two services pay commission cells and the Pay Commission. Under his able guidance, Air Force proposals for revised pay and allowances and non-effective benefits were finalised and a bulk of recommendations made by him were accepted by the Government.

On promotion to the rank of Air Marshal he was appointed as Air Officer-in-Charge Administration and was the guiding force for speedy implementation of the recommendations of the 4th Pay Commission. Under his Chairmanship, the Air Force Naval Housing Board has embarked on one of its largest projects at NOIDA Phase II. In his present sphere of responsibility which covers a broad spectrum of activities, Air Marshal Subramanian has made significant contributions on account of his exceptional professional competence and qualities of leadership.

In his long career in the Indian Air Force, Air Marshal Krishnaswamy Subramanian, AVSM, VM has shown outstanding qualities of dynamic leadership, organisational, managerial and professional competence of a very high order and has rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Man Mohan Sinha, was commissioned in the Flying (Pilot) Branch of the Indian Air Force on 17 January, 1953. In his career spanning over 34 years he has held with distinction varied command and staff appointments including Aide-de-Camp to the President of India, command of a fighter squadron, Directing Staff at Defence Services Staff College and Chief Instructor at Joint Air Warfare School.

In January, 1980 he was assigned command of a major air base in the Eastern region. Under his dynamic leadership the flying effort at the base increased by about 15% without any increase in manpower. For the timely and successful attainment of the tasks assigned to his base, he was awarded Ati Vishisht Seva Medal. In October 1982 he was specially selected as the Senior Directing Staff at War College, Al-Bakr University in Iraq. On his return in March 1985 he was posted as Director Personnel (Officers) at Air Headquarters. With his mature and humane approach he was able to evolve improvements in personnel policies for officers maintaining a desirable balance between Air Force organisational needs and individual aspirations.

On promotion to the rank of Air Marshal in August 1986, he took over as Senior Air Staff Officer of an Operational Air Command. To this assignment he again brought to bear his professional excellence and dedication and was largely instrumental in augmenting the combat capability of various elements of the Command thereby, enhancing the overall operations preparedness of the Air Force.

In April, 1987 he took over as Air Officerin-Charge Personnel at Air Headquarters. In this appointment his sphere of responsibility covers a broad spectrum encompassing all recruitment, initial training, career management and retirement/rehabilitation of all Air Force personnel, officers, airmen and civilians. His vast experience, analytical approach and farsightedness have been instrumental in giving a new thrust to optimum utilisation of manpower resources of the Air Force.

Air Marshal Man Mohan Sinha, AVSM, VM has thus rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Pirthi Singh was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in 1953. During his distinguished service of 35 years, he has held important command and staff appointments such as Command of the Aircraft and System Testing Establishment, Director Offensive Operations, Director Training, Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Operations) and Deputy Chief of Air Staff at Air Headquarters. He is a graduate of National Defence College.

Air Marshal P Singh is a test pilot who has evaluated advanced supersonic aircraft of widely varying design. As a test pilot he holds the rare distinct having carried out evaluation trials of all combat aircraft presently held in the Air Force Inventory. In 1979, he was appointed Commandant Aircraft System and Testing Establishment where he organised and participated in the testing and development of new equipment. He carried out these tasks successfully and without incurring a single incident involving loss or damage to any aircraft or equipment under development. As Commandant, he had shown extreme devotion and made outstanding contributions to aeronautical development in the country. Due to his initiative, dedication, hard work and foresight, the Test Pilot School at ASTE is rated very high.

As Deputy Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Singh continued to display qualities if extreme dedication and professional excellence. His acumen for planning and dear perception of the long term operational requirements of the Air Force was a strong contributory factor to finalisation of some long term plans.

Air Marshal Pirthi Singh, AVSM, VM & Bar has, thus, rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Mohinder Singh Bawa was commissioned in the Air Force in April 1953. During his long service career, he has held a variety of command and staff appointments which include the command of one frontline fighter squadron and two major operational bases where he accomplished high rates of aircraft serviceability, enhanced operational preparedness and all round efficiency. He ha also held the assignment of Air Adviser in the Indian High Commission in London, Senior Directing Staff at Defence Services Staff College and Senior Air Staff Officer at one of the operational commands.

In 1979, when in command of a major fighter base in the Western Sector, he created the infrastructure to operate newly acquired fighter bomber aircraft an made the squadron fully operational in the shortest possible time. Air Marshal Bawa's planning skills and dynamism became apparent once again when he was appointed Senior Air Staff Officer of an Operational command.

In his present appointment as Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of a operational command, his dynamism, dedication and managerial skills have directly influenced the command's functioning. He has instilled a sense of purpose, pride and dedication in the personnel serving under him.

Air Marshal Mohinder Singh Bawa, AVSM, VM, has, thus, rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Gursharan Singh was commissioned in the Air Force on 26 February 1952. Since then he has held a wide variety of command and staff appointments. During his long and distinguished service, he excelled himself not only by professional competence but also outstanding administrative ability. For his outstanding professional abilities, he was selected to undergo the prestigious Cranfield Course in United Kingdom in Aeronautical Science, which he complete with distinction.

During the Indo-Pak Conflict of 1971, his sustained hard work under adverse conditions, resulted in high rate of serviceability of the squadron where he served.

He served as Maintenance Staff Officer of two commands, where he achieved substantial qualitative improvements in maintenance standards. As the Director of Maintenance Plans & Inspection, his methodical, systematic an incisive approach contributed greatly in formulating efficient maintenance planning procedures and servicing schedules for the newly inducted and existing weapon systems. Under his able guidance, an awareness grew in the maintenance organisation of the urgent need to improve the quality of maintenance support while at the same time reducing costs through innovation.

As Assistant Chief of Air Staff (Engineering), despite the immense problems involved, he ensured the smooth induction of new heavy and medium transport aircraft. With his experience in the diverse field of maintenance management, he has streamlined maintenance disciplines and guided his personnel in overcoming the teething troubles associated with the introduction of new weapons systems into the Indian Air Force. Air Marshal Singh has served as Director General of Radar and Communication Project Organisation and has achieved rare distinctions in planning, installation and commissioning of tropo, microwave and radar facilities for the Air Defence Ground Environment System. Through his dedication and untiring effort, he achieved a high state of induction and operationalisation of installations, including those located in far flung areas and inaccessible mountainous terrain.

Air Marshal Gursharan Singh, AVSM VM, VSM has, thus, rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Vice Marshal Denzil Keelor was commissioned in the Air Force on November 1954 and has held important command and staff appointment including command of a Fighter Squadron, Tactical Air Combat Development Establishment, Air Attaché France and Air Officer Commanding of a fighter base. An outstanding fighter pilot, Air Vice Marshal Keelor qualified as a Pilot Attack Instructor and Fighter Combat Leader and has over 3500 hours of accident-free flying to his credit. He was awarded the Vir Chakra for conspicuous gallantry Indo-Pak Conflict in 1965. In 1978, he was also awarded the Kirti Chakra saving two MiG aircraft under conditions of emergency involving fire in the air. He has commanded the Tactical Air Combat Development Establishment for over four years and helped in developing air combat tactics which are in current use in Indian Air Force.

Air Vice Marshal Keelor whilst functioning as Air Attaché in France, not only projected the image of the Air Force in a superlative manner but also worked great dedication in the acquisition process of the Mirage 2000 aircraft and a equipment. Based on his performance there, he was specially selected for appointment of Air Officer Commanding of the Wing where the Mirage 2000s were based on induction. His achievement and dedication of a high order in completing this project earned him the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal.

As Assistant Chief of Air Staff (Operations) at Air Headquarters, he brought his drive and professional acumen to bear in sharpening the operational capability of the Air Force. His deep understanding of all facets of Air Operations was apparent during the Sri Lanka operations. At very short notice, he was able to plan and effect the massive air induction of IPKF men and their equipment into Sri Lanka, in addition to organising helicopter operations and accomplishing in time the reconnaissance tasks. The success of Air Force operations and the swiftness with which these were carried out clearly indicated a high degree of dynamism, planning and dedication on the part of Air Vice Marshal Keelor. Air Vice Marshal Denzil Keelor, KC, AVSM, VrC has, thus, rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Gandharva Sen was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in January, 1953. A graduate from the National Defence College, he has held a variety of important command and staff appointments during his long service career.

In 1981 he took over command of a major forward fighter base. Under his inspiring leadership and guidance, the station was brought up to the highest level of operational preparedness. He also made significant improvements in the administrative infrastructure, support services and the welfare facilities.

On promotion to the rank of Air Marshal in November, 1986 he took over as Senior Air Staff Officer of an Operational Air Command. In this assignment, he again brought to bear his professional excellence and dedication and was instrumental in augmenting the combat capability of different elements of the Command, thereby enhancing the overall operational effectiveness of the IAF.

In his present appointment as Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of an operational air command, his dynamism, dedication and managerial skills were brought to bear on the entire range of air operations in Sri Lanka. Because of his inspiring leadership, induction of and logistic support for the Indian Peace Keeping Force was planned and executed with meticulous precision and efficiency. The successful conduct of air operations in Maldives is another remarkable achievement of Air Marshal Sen. His meticulous planning and its precise execution was a brilliant example of rapid response in strategic deployment of our troops and resources.

Air Marshal Gandharva Sen, AVSM, VM has, thus, rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Raj Kumar Nehra, VSM (4I518) Aeronautical Engineering (Mechanical) was commissioned in the Indian air Force on 07 Sep 1953. During his long and distinguished career he has hold a variety of command and staff appointments with distinction. A Mechanical Engineer of outstanding merit, he was selected to undergo the prestigious Flight Test Engineering Course at the Flight Test School in France.

One of the first two 'Flight Test Engineers' of the I.A.F., he was responsible for organising flight trials of a variety of aircraft and equipment and was instrumental in establishing new and modern testing facilities at the Aircraft & Systems Testing Establishment. His innovative approach in planning, conduct of flight trials and data reduction of test results, was pioneering work of its type. He was awarded Vishisht Seva Modal in 1978.

During the command of a vital Base Repair Depot, he not only achieved a higher rate of production of engines but also introduced an advanced and efficient method of spares forecasting for engine overhauls. He was also responsible for pioneering the work of manufacture of aeronautical quality rubber seals in the country. Between 1982 and 1986, while Director of three different Directorates in Air Headquarters, the Air Officer displayed outstanding professional knowledge, capacity for hard work and an incisive approach to problems while dealing with a wide range of aircraft, weapons and other systems. His staff assessments and analysis of technological parameters have significantly contributed to the selection of the right weapon systems/ equipment for the IAF.

He has served as Senior Maintenance Staff Officer at two Commands, where he achieved qualitative improvements in Maintenance Standards and practices. He was able to inculcate a sense of urgency among the technical staff and make them more responsive to operational needs, while reducing costs through innovations. He is presently holding the prestigious appointment of Air Officer-in-Charge Maintenance where he has brought to bear his vast experience and professionalism to enhance the effectiveness of Maintenance and logistic activities of the entire Air Force.

Air Marshal Raj Kumar Nehra, VSM has rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.