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Vishist Seva Medal Awardee List
A total of 1537 Awards are listed.
Vishist Seva Medal : 1537 |
 Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
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| Gp Capt | Sivaraman Sreekanth 19479 ADM | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 16 | Announced 26 Jan 16 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Sivaraman Sreekanth (I9479) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as an Air Traffic Controller in the administrative branch on 17 Dec 88. He has been performing duties as Director Personnel Airmen at Air HQ since 28 Apr 14. In his career spanning 26 Years, the officer has worked across the span of the country. He has also been Joint Director Personnel (Deputations Abroad) at Air HQs and functioned as C Adm 0 whilst on deputation to a UN Peace Keeping Mission, in Congo. Earlier the Officer has also held the appointment as Instructor, Faculty of Administration at the Air Force Academy, and CO and Assistant Provost Marshal at a PGS Unit covering Assam and Arunachal Zone where he has rendered unstinted support towards many aircraft search and missions In his present appointment as Director Personnel Airmen the officer has exhibited a great sense of responsibility, tact and substance in delivering output well beyond the call of duty. He had actively participated in the major task of rationalization of manpower for the IAF and has innovatively suggested functional concepts for manpower deployment and redistribution, many of which have fructified. He has been instrumental in ensuring system wise fleet wise manpower availability and development of the induction plan keeping in view the cadre needs. The officer, through diligence and commitment, ensured achievement of targets assigned, thereby contributing to operational efficiency of the organization. He has been involved in garnering the necessary support and inputs necessary from various stake holders towards development of new policies related to career progression of airmen as well as revitalizing the cadre in certain trades. The officer through personal involvement has kept the work force of the directorate motivated enough to be able to meet timelines in terms of queries from MoD, RTI inquiries and defending numerous court cases against IAF on HR issues related to airmen in addition to other routine commitments. For distinguished service of a high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Sivaraman Sreekanth. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Lanka Venkata Sai Ramesh 19626 AE(L) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 16 | Announced 26 Jan 16 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Lanka Venkata Sai Ramesh (19626) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as an engineer in the Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics) branch on 12 Sep 88. He is qualified on all variants of MiG-21 and has successfully held appointments at all levels of functioning in a Flying Base including Senior Technical Officer of Flying Squadrons, Senior Engineer (Aircraft) and Chief Engineering Officer. He has also functioned as Joint Director and Director at Air HQ. He has gained two Masters Degrees after completion of courses at Defence Services Staff College and College of Defence Management. He exhibits commendable technical acumen, engineering insight and management skills. As Director at Air HQ he undertook a study of the requirement of aeroengines for sustaining all the variants of MiG-21 aircraft through their life cycle. He played a major role in recovery of a BISON ac declared beyond repair by HAL. With his engineering analysis, he was able to impress upon HAL to recover the aircraft by using the mono-cock structure of another accident ac also rendered unrecoverable. The ac after recovery has been put into operation. He has been associated with important projects like life extension of Ai-20D aeroengine and TVC of SU-30. He also worked on the current Maintenance Instructions. He possesses exceptional foresight and co-ordination skills which he effectively utilizes in his present appointment as Command Co-ordination Officer. Due to his professional competence, exposure gained in the field, out of the box thinking and communication skills; he represents Maintenance Command in the 'Think Tank' of the IAF. He is an animal lover, sports person and an accomplished golfer. He also takes keen interest in social and cultural activities. For distinguished service of a high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Lanka Venkata Sai Ramesh. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Sanjiv Ghuratia 19648 AE(L) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 16 | Announced 26 Jan 16 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Sanjiv Ghuratia (19648) war commissioned in the Indian Air Force as an engineer in the Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics) branch on 12 September 1988. He is posted to Air Headquarters as Director Air Staff Requirement (Weapons). In 26 years of his distinguished service, Group Captain Sanjiv Ghuratia has held numerous important field and staff appointments that include Chief Engineering Officer of a flying base, Chief of Aircraft at a Base Repair Depot, Chief Engineering Officer at United Nations Mission in Congo and Instructor at Air Force Test Pilots School. He has contributed immensely as a Flight Test Engineer in many important weapon and sensor integration projects including Air to Air Missile, Air to Surface Missile, Helmet Mounted Display System and Laser Designator Pod on fighter aircraft. As Chief Engineering Officer of a Flying Base and UN Mission at Congo his technical acumen and management skills ensured sustained operations through very high serviceability of the available aircraft. His initiative for reviving the 50 hours servicing of Mi-I7 1V helicopters at THOISE saved precious flying hours for Operation Meghdoot. His insightful analysis of dangerous pattern of consecutive replacements of Tail Drive Shafts of the Mi series helicopters has been acknowledged to have prevented potential accidents. The officer was instrumental in the recovery of Indira Radar that was stationary for 11 years at a remote operational location at 9000 feet altitude and also orchestrated the first on-site overhaul of ST-68Radar. Under his leadership as Chief of Aircraft, the Base Repair Depot successfully undertook the challenging task of overhauling Mi-17 and Mi-8 helicopters in the face of uncertainty of many critical spares. In Directorate of Air Staff Requirements The officer with his ingenuity and foresight offered solutions to complex issues of procurement and project management that lead to accord of long awaited Initial Operational Clearance to Light Combat Aircraft. His sound knowledge and professionalism has positively impacted the modernisation drive of the Indian Air Force towards induction of weapons and Ground Based Air Defence systems. For distinguished service of a high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Sanjiv Ghuratia. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Hila! Ahmad Rather 19863 F(P) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 16 | Announced 26 Jan 16 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Hilal Ahmad Rather, VM (I9863) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as a pilot in the flying branch on 17Dec 88. He has more than 3000 hours of accident free flying on MiG-21s,Mirage-zooo and Kiran aircraft. He is a Fighter Combat Leader and a qualified Flying Instructor. He is a graduate from DSSC and has served as a Directing Staff at DSSC as well. He has commanded a Mirage-2000 Squadron and also a front-line Air Force Base. He graduated from the Air War College in USA with academic distinction. Gp Capt HA Rather took over as OpslA, WAC on 15 JuI 2013. With dogged determination, he systematically went about addressing the weak aspects of aircrew training and diligently monitored the achievement of the set targets. WAC managed to register a record increase in upgradation of U/C aircrew, night flying effort, weapon delivery and utilisation of simulators, identified as the key areas for improvement. WAC achieved lowest U/C and the highest ops aircrew status ever during the period. He was instrumental in achieving enhanced availability of training aids like ACMI launchers, bomb simulator plugs, Data Loaders and training missiles through relentless staff-work. The initiatives taken by WAC in enhancing the training status and op orientation of the RPA fleet and Garuds in WAC have been approved as benchmarks for training in IAF. Through his keen operational orientation, the officer reformatted the conduct of Eklavya with near-realistic op settings. He was involved in planning and conduct of various trials undertaken to enhance the op-employment of our combat assets. The highly professional and safe conduct of the Air Force Day Fly-past in 2013, 2014 and the Republic Day Fly-past in 2014, in-spite of unusually inclement weather conditions is a testimony to the officer's decision making capabilities and professionalism. The officer planned and oversaw the safe conduct of more than 30 fighter dets and eight RPA dets during the period involving co-ordination with diverse agencies and at times deployment at very short notice. The officer consistently subscribes to service norms and conducts himself in an exemplary manner. He always maintains service interests uppermost and constantly strives to improve the functioning efficiency of the organization. For distinguished service of a high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Hilal Ahmad Rather, VM. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | R Ravishankar 20152 F(P) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 16 | Announced 26 Jan 16 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain R Ravishankar (20152) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as a pilot in flying branch on 14 Jun 1989. During these 26 years of service, the officer has more than 3500h of flying experience on Chetak, Mi-8,Mi-17 and Mi-17 1V helicopters. He has held varied appointments including Director (GW), DASI, Commanding Officer of a Missile Sqn and as Joint Director (Plans). In addition he also functioned as Senior Air Safety & Inspection Officer (SASIO) of a frontline helicopter base. The officer has undergone the prestigious Defence Services Staff Course in 2000-01 and Higher Defence Management Course in 2012-13. He was also selected for the distinguished UN Peace Keeping Force to represent IAF on deputation to Democratic Republic of Congo during 2009-10. The officer is presently Commanding an Air Force Station since 21 June 2013. As Station Commander, the officer dedicatedly worked towards bringing about multifarious improvements in the core activities of the unit and has ensured a high state of operational readiness since Apr 2014. In order to optimally utilise all the op assets in his AOR, he undertook extensive reconnaissance in the sector which resulted in diligent deployment of all sensors at forward locations. Due to his meticulous attention to detail and involvement, projects worth 1647 lakhs were cleared for smooth induction of many Missile systems within a span of 16 months. He formed separate teams to interact with officials of DFO and DEO for speedy clearance of more than 700 trees to enable commencement of construction of op infrastructure for these systems. In Dec 13, resurfacing of sparingly used helipad was undertaken and it was extended to 700 ft x 150 ft to accommodate larger helicopters for conduct of Night Vision Goggle (NVG) operations. The tasks undertaken by the Station in timely implementation of various communication projects, innovation towards man power reduction in mundane tasks and improvement of overall quality of life, is an achievement for any Station. For distinguished service of a high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain R Ravishankar. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Bijan Kumar Panda 20349 AE(L) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 16 | Announced 26 Jan 16 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Bijan Kumar Panda (20349) was commissioned in Indian Air Force as an engineer in the Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics) branch on 04 Sep 1989. He has so far held various appointments like Flight commander of a Pechora flight, Officer- in - charge of Mirage EW systems, Joint Director (System/Network administration) in Defence Image Processing and Analysis Centre (DIPAC),OIC Project Defence Satellite Control Centre (DSCC), JD Sigs (Air/Tropo) and D Sigs (Maint) at Air HQs. The officer was actively involved with Indian Satellite Research Organisation (ISRO) as the team leader for establishment of Defence Satellite Control Centre (DSCC). Subsequently as Joint Director Sigs (Air/Tropo), he played a critical role in spectrum management, formulation of Defence Spectrum Band and harmonisation of Tropo Spectrum with Department of Telecommunication. For his outstanding performance and distinguished service he was commended by Chief of Air Staff in 2007 and by Chief of Integrated Defence Staff in 2009. He took over the command of Air Force Station Bhowali on 09 Jun 14, since then he has taken keen interest on maintenance and revival of legacy Tropo system. Due to his tireless effort and personal involvement, this vintage system has achieved an enviable serviceability state since. His involvement in improving the qualiry of lifestyle of his unit personnel is' praiseworthy. There has been all round visible improvement in the station under his command. He has taken personal interest in improving environmental issues by addressing the waste disposal effectively. For distinguished service of a high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Bijan Kumar Panda. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Satinder Singh Rehal 20862 AE(L) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 16 | Announced 26 Jan 16 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Satinder Singh Rehal (20862) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as an engineer in the Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics) branch in Sep 1990. He is a post graduate from lIT Delhi and an alumnus of DSSC. He has held important appointments including Senior Engineering Officer of a Jaguar Squadron, Group Director in Project Monitoring Team for the induction of Light Combat Aircraft and Senior Engineer at frontline IAF bases. For his meritorious service, he has been commended by Chief of Air Staff in 1999 and AOC-in-C Western Air Command in 2006. Group Captain Satinder Singh Rehal has been the Chief Engineering Officer at a premier base since May 2013. To support the extensive flying undertaken by the base and to improve the capability of the fighter squadrons, his major thrust has been on reducing the number of aircraft on ground. He has taken a number of initiatives that have energized the maintenance setup towards innovation and self help. Design of Lefa Cable tester for IAF, Weapon Loading Trolley for Jaguar and redesigned Integrated Pechora Combat Simulator have not only improved maintenance efficiency but also galvanized personnel towards seeking indigenous solutions. His drive towards shedding obsolete and surplus inventory has led to successful evacuation of salvage six times in last two years accruing Rs 1.77 crores to the exchequer. In the process of improving the quality of maintenance and capability of technical personnel, he placed added emphasis in reorganization of training schedules and daily maintenance guidelines. In the last six months itself this initiative has resulted in ISO Certification for Base Logistics Section, upgradation of category of ten maintenance officers and successful conduct of major workshops on Jaguar, Adour Engine and Electronic Warfare Systems. For distinguished service of a high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Satinder Singh Rehal. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Sameer Madhukar Kalode 20968 AE(L) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 16 | Announced 26 Jan 16 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Sameer Madhukar Kalode (20968) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as an engineer in the Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics) branch on 09 Sep 89. In his career spanning 25 years he has been the Senior Engineering Officer of a prestigious IL-76 squadron and has flown over 2000 hrs as Flight Signaller in IL-76/78 aircraft. He was trained abroad on IL-78MKIaircraft and achieved the distinction of being both a Cat-A Fit Sig as well as an Aircrew Examination Board Examiner. He has participated in exercises at Alaska in 2002, USA & South Africa in 2004. As SE(L) at Air Force Stn Bhuj, he was instrumental in successful conduct of Presidential Colour Presentation in 2007. He has undergone the prestigious Technical Staff Officers Course in 2009 stood first in order of merit. As Director in the Personnel Branch from 2009-13, he was responsible for HR and career planning of 2800 officers of AE(L) branch. In his present engagement as Chief Engineering Officer he has displayed extraordinary skills in fleet management wherein the three different aircraft fleets flew more than 15000 hours in last two years, thus maximizing the op potential of the base. He has organized activities of high complexity that included recovery of three AN32 ac and one IL76 on AOG. Under his guidance the base carried out the first three 900h servicings on IL76 ac and 1800h servicing on AN32 and AOG build up of a Mi-26. In addition, with his foresight and vision he set up a Maintenance Assistance Centre, wherein, 56 outstation ac were rectified/serviced at Chandigarh/ Srinagar/ Avantipur during Op Megh Rahat. All activities were aimed towards self sustenance to achieve the organization's drive towards "Year of Wherewithal". This resulted in Award of the "Best in Maintenance" award to the Station in 2014-15. For distinguished service of a high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Sameer Madhukar Kalode. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Krishnaswamy Premkumar 21241 F(P) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 16 | Announced 26 Jan 16 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Krishnaswamy Premkumar, VM (21241) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as a pilot in the flying branch on 15 Jun 1991. He is a Qualified Flying Instructor, Instrument Rating Instructor and Examiner, Alumni and Directing Staff of the Defence Services Staff College. The officer has flown over 4000 hours on various aircraft. He has held important command and staff appointments including command of a fighter squadron and Station Commander of an Air Defence Direction Centre. He is presently posted as the Defence Adviser at Abu Dhabi, UAE. As the first Defence Advisor at Abu Dhabi, the officer was responsible for establishing the Defence Wing in UAE. This he did in the shortest time with limited staff and resources. In the last two years, the officer has displayed exemplary skill at enhancing defence cooperation with various military and government organizations of the host country. This was amply evident by the successful conduct of numerous high level visits, interactions and staging of air and naval assets through UAE, often overlapping with each other. The officer, as a leader, possesses remarkable man management and networking skills. These came to the fore during the Yemen crisis in March 2015. Single handedly, the officer managed the task of air evacuation of more than 4000 Indian nationals. In doing so, he had the task of coordinating air effort, locating Indian spread through the length and breadth of Yemen, getting them safely to the airport, motivating inexperienced staff and subordinates, all the while working in an unfamiliar environment. Destitute nationals and vulnerable groups like hospital nurses were evacuated safely only due to the management skills and leadership displayed by the officer. For exemplary professionalism, dedication to duty, exceptional leadership in a crisis situation and distinguished service of a high order Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Krishnaswamy Premkumar, VM. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Shailesh Ranjan 21254 F(P) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 16 | Announced 26 Jan 16 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Shailesh Ranjan (21254) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as a pilot in the flying branch on 30 Jun 1991.He has held the important appointments of Commanding Officer of a Akash Missile Sqn and Flight Commander of a Fighter Squadron. Presently, he is posted as Station Commander, of a premier Air Defence Direction Centre. In the arena of operations, under his guidance and leadership, a host of initiatives were taken to improve the overall op preparedness and op potential, such as renovation and re-organisation of ops room, automatic contingency lists, and integrated radar IRT recording for de-briefs and streaming of sensor pictures. Regular conduct of training capsules and continuous study of the adversary were two of his KRAs. The concerted efforts, personal involvement, stress on spare management and focused approach towards correct maintenance practices espoused by him resulted in a high operational availability of the unit sensors in last two years. Group Captain Shailesh Ranjan uplifted the morale of one and all by instilling a feeling of team spirit amongst the personnel of the station. With his meticulous planning and involvement, the existing buildings including the auditorium got a facelift due to renovation. Gp Capt S Ranjan planned various important infrastructure upgradation essentially required by the Station. With the futuristic vision and foresight Gp Capt S Ranjan could work out to get additional water from a nearby Dam. For distinguished service of a high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Shailesh Ranjan. . | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Rajesh Joshi 21502 F(P) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 16 | Announced 26 Jan 16 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Rajesh Joshi (21502) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as a pilot in the flying branch on 14 Dec 1991 and has 2400 hours of flying experience on various aircraft. He is a Qualified Flying Instructor and a graduate of the Defence Services Staff College. He has commanded a Pechora Squadron and has held the appointments JD Ops(lEW) and Director Flying Exercises at Air HQ. He was awarded an Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief Commendation on 26 Jan 97 and Chief of the Air Staff Commendation on 08 Oct 2008. As Director Flying Exercises at Air HQ, he was instrumental in conduct of Exercise Live Wire after a gap of five years. His vision and foresight was also visible as head of the team for deployment of Indian Air Force Mission Planning and Collaboration Tool (IMPACT) which is deployed as a major tool in conducting flying exercises for the entire IAF. As Chief Operations Officer at a premier fighter base, his in depth knowledge of operations ensured simultaneous operation of main and standby Terminal Weapon Control Centre, fabrication of rescue ladder for SU-30 locally and modification of Blast Pens. His proactive approach and innovativeness resulted in a high degree of operational orientation of the Station which was graded Average Plus by Directorate of Air Staff Inspection and appreciated by various dignitaries from Air HQs and Command HQs. His operational orientation and attention to details ensured simultaneous winter outstation detachment of four squadrons during which a large quantum of accident free flying was undertaken at base. The officer promptly attained his 'Ops Day' status on MiG-21 (T-96) and regularly flies as Supervisor which has immensely benefitted Op training and up gradation of pilots of local fighter squadron. The careful planning and distribution of Annual Training Grant under his directions has significantly improved the training infrastructure at the station. For distinguished service of a high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Rajesh Joshi. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Maluk Singh 21528 F(P) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 16 | Announced 26 Jan 16 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Maluk Singh (21528) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as a pilot in the flying branch on 14 Dec 1991. He is a qualified 'Fighter Strike Leader'. He is a graduate from the Defence Services Staff College, and College of Air Warfare. He has a total of 2700 hours of flying to his credit on frontline fighter aircraft including the Mig-21, Bison and Jaguar. He has been commended by the AOC-in-C in 2003. Presently, he is posted as Director at the Directorate of Air Staff Inspections (DASI). He has held the appointment of Commanding Officer (CO) of a premier Jaguar Squadron (Sqn). During his tenure as CO, the Sqn won the gunnery meet trophy in Exercise (Ex) Eklavya, flew more than 5000 Hrs and maintained an envious aerospace safety record. He has also been DS at the prestigious 'TACDE' where he was deeply involved in the formulation of important tactics and SOPs for conduct of international exercises that showcased the combat potential of IAF. He was also member of the Indian contingent that for the first time ferried fighter ac intercontinental and participated in Ex Cope Thunder in Alaska. In the present tenure as Director at DASI, the officer has ensured highest quality of inspections, focusing on core issues concerning operations and training utilizing his exceptional professional knowledge, experience and keen sense of observation. He was the key figure in planning and coordinating Umpiring activities in Exercise Livewire 2013. The officer's tireless efforts also enabled to shape Audit on Airborne Weapons conducted by the Directorate (Dte). The officer also took on the responsibility of designing the Directorate's website thereby utilising his innate IT skills. His professional credentials were effectively utilised in the recently concluded "Table Top Workshop", an Air Force level war game conducted by DASI. His focused approach and relentless efforts with total involvement contributed immensely in making the exercise meaningful, thus highlighting the officer's exceptional strength of character and unflinching sense of purpose. For distinguished service of a high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Maluk Singh. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Ajveer Singh Minhas 22126 F(P) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 16 | Announced 26 Jan 16 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Ajveer Singh Minhas (22126) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as a pilot in flying branch on 19Dec 92. He is a Qualified Flying Instructor and Instrument Rating Instructor and Examiner. He is a graduate of the Defence Services Staff College and Army War College. He has flown variants of the MiG-21 aircraft and MiG-27 ML aircraft and has over 3100 hours of accident free flying to his credit. He has commanded a fighter Sqn and held important staff appointments at Air HQs in the Ops Branch. The officer is now posted as Chief Operations Officer of a large fighter base. During the last ten months, since he has taken over as the COO of this busy and hectic base, he has contributed immensely in enhancing operational efficiency of the station. He was actively involved in successful hosting of two large scale flying exercises at this base. The first was bilateral Indo - French flying exercise Garuda V, and the second being the pan-Air Force EW workshop, wherein large number of aircraft from eight different Sqns operated from the base. During the exercise, he was actively involved in the formulation of new SOPs and instructions on ECM/ECCM for the IAF.A large number of outstation commitments were under taken by the base despite many constraints. The officer with his meticulous planning, keen initiative and thorough involvement ensured safe operations and all these commitments were undertaken without any compromise on the routine tasking of the local units. His undaunted involvement in fulfilling demanding tasks and simultaneously achieving the routine Op requirements of the large number of combat units is worth a mention. In a short span of two months after taking over, the officer contributed immensely to enhance the Op capability of the base. The station was assessed 'High Average' in Ops by DASI and was adjudged as the best operational station of SWAC for the year 2014. He also played a pivotal role in the Presidential Standards Parade (PSP) hosted by the station in the month of Mar 2015. Apart from the Presidential Parade that he supervised, being second in command in the station, he was also actively involved in all the other events held towards the PSP. For distinguished service of a high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Ajveer Singh Minhas. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Vaibhav Dutt Badoni 22738 F(P) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 16 | Announced 26 Jan 16 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Vaibhav Dutt Badoni (22738) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as a pilot in the flying branch on 18 Dec 1993. He is a Qualified Flying Instructor and has a total of 4500 hours of accident! incident free flying on MI-8,Chetak, Cheetah and MI-35 helicopters. He served as the Flight Commander of a Cheetah unit in Op Meghdoot and a MI-35 squadron in Punjab sector. He Commanded a Mi-35 Sqn and is presently posted on staff at Advance HQ of a large Command HQ. Group Captain Badoni is an alumnus of the Defence services Staff College who was instrumental in re-raising and commanding a front line Attack Helicopter Squadron. While leading from the front, the squadron flew a large quantum of accident free flying and participated in twenty five exercises with the Indian Army. The squadron was subsequently adjudged as the best helicopter unit of the Command. With his professional acumen and flawless planning, he led the MI-35 formation during consecutive Air Force Day Parade Fly-pasts in 2010, 2011 and Vayu Shakti 2010. At the Advance HQ, the officer was singularly responsible for orchestrating of the AFNET project in absence of a technical officer in the newly established unit. He was also instrumental in setting up of Joint Army Air Operational Center and state of the art Advance HQs Briefing Room which resulted in active monitoring and meaningful conduct of Joint Operations. With a plethora of experience in conduct of Land-Air campaign, he drafted the Joint Operations Doctrine and constantly strived towards better integration and streamlined joint operations .. For distinguished service of a high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Vaibhav Dutt Badoni. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Anand Sondhi 22916 F(P) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 16 | Announced 26 Jan 16 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Anand Sondhi (22916) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as a pilot in the flying branch on 18 Jun 94 and is presently posted as Director of Personnel(Officer)- 5 at Air HQ. He is a Cat A Flying Instructor and an Air Force Examiner. He is qualified on the jaguar and Mig-29 aircraft with over 3300 hours of flying experience. In his 21 years of service, he has served in many operational units and commanded a frontline fighter Squadron. He has also served as the Staff Officer to CAS prior to the current assignment. During his tenure as a CO the officer proved his mettle as a transformational leader. Under his leadership the Squadron sustained very high professional standards and flew 4600 hrs of accident free flying. His professional acumen played a pivotal role in the Squadron winning Command EkIavya Trophy both in 2011 and 2012. He led the Squadron from the front during multiple detachments in the J&K valley and undertook day and night operations, including heavy armament missions from that base during many exercises. His personal competency and skill came to the fore on multiple occasions including the conduct of a precise fighter fly-past on Air Force Day in 2011 and 2012 flawless conduct of the Squadron's Diamond jubilee celebrations in Dec 2011. Constant focus and personal involvement on his part allowed sustenance of high serviceability and consequent accomplishment of numerous operational milestones. As a staff officer, he has excelled in all assigned tasks within a short span. These included the onerous responsibility of preparing daily media and op briefs, drafting speeches, messages and important correspondence addressed to the National Leadership, Service Chiefs and heads of foreign Air Forces. In his current assignment he has shown tremendous resolve in formulating holistic and comprehensive HRPs after incorporating feedback received from the environment. In spite of no previous experience, he has played a central role in setting up of Legal Cell and has made a stellar contribution in handling of ongoing court cases and associated legal issues. For distinguished service of a high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Anand Sondhi. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Wg Cdr | Abhijit Prakash Deshpande 24218 F(P) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 16 | Announced 26 Jan 16 | |
| Details : |  Wing Commander Abhijit Prakash Deshpande (24218) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as a pilot in the flying branch on 21 Dec 1996. He is a Qualified Flying Instructor and a graduate of the Defence Services Staff College. He has more than 3300 hrs of flying various helicopters in the IAF's inventory. He is presently commanding a Helicopter Unit in the North Eastern Sector. As Commanding Officer, with his vision and foresight, he has brought about tremendous all round changes in the functioning of his Unit. Backed by sound professional knowledge and experience he has not only enhanced the operational potential of his Unit but also instilled pride and confidence in the men he Commands. His thorough involvement and attention to detail in planning and execution of tasks related to President's Standard Presentation (PSP) was highly appreciated. His steadfastness and commitment to task was evident when, in spite of personal tragedy during the PSP, he ensured that all events went through as planned. Under his command and guidance, the Unit maintains a high serviceability state of its helicopters and has achieved 100%serviceability on many occasions. For good overall performance in all spheres of activities, his Unit was adjudged the best Helicopter Unit of the Command in 2014. The officer has diligently involved himself in the ongoing ALH Mk III project works and the impending induction of the modem platform. His foresight and thorough involvement has ensured quality completion of ongoing work services for the induction and timely conversion training of Aircrew and Ground Crew. Under his vibrant leadership, the Unit has achieved all allotted tasks in a befitting manner, with exceptional regard to safety. He has great concern for the well being of air warriors and has utilised various innovative methods to generate a sense of belonging and camaraderie amongst all personnel. His unconditional involvement, devotion to duty and the highest norms of interpersonal relations have significantly enhanced the happiness quotient of air warriors of the Unit and thereby, ensured a positive and professional work environment. For distinguished service of a high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Abhijit Prakash Deshpande. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Wg Cdr | Mudit Mathur 24573 ADM | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 16 | Announced 26 Jan 16 | |
| Details : |  Wing Commander Mudit Mathur (24573) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in Administrative branch on 21 Jun 1997. He is presently posted as the Joint Director (Image Analysis) at the Directorate of Intelligence, Air HQ (VB) after his tenure as spacecraft controller at the Satellite Control Centre (DSCC). The Officer is the sole architect and developer of the Image Intelligence Management System (IlMS) , which today is the backbone for IMINT (Image Intelligence) management and dissemination in the IAF. The system has been- further redesigned and upgraded with the latest technology and a high degree of integration with the plethora of sensors. This has propelled the IAF as a leader in the field. He has been associated with two spacecraft missions from inception to full operational status and is actively involved in formulating future IAF IMINT/Spacecraft requirements. The efforts of Wing Commander Mudit Mathur have enhanced the image intelligence capability of the IAF and set a benchmark for other intelligence agencies to follow. His untiring efforts to improve digital photogrammetric capabilities and the consequent improvement of target information have a direct bearing on maximizing the potential offered by precision weapon systems. His efforts have laid a strong foundation for indigenous development processes in the field of remote sensing and applications. His exemplary performance, dedication and untiring efforts in the field of image intelligence is commendable and par comparison. For distinguished service of a high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Mudit Mathur. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Wg Cdr | J Angel Reuben 24808 AE(L) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 16 | Announced 26 Jan 16 | |
| Details : |  Wing Commander J Angel Reuben (24808) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as an engineer in the Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics) branch on 24 Nov 97 and is presently working as Joint Director Operations (Information Warfare) at Air Headquarters since 24 Apr 1l. He has held important appointments like System Administrator at an Air Force Station, Command Information Technology Officer (CITO),IT Advisor to Botswana Defence Force, Project Officer - Campus Area Network (CAN) at Directorate of Information Technology (DIT) etc. While posted at HQ MC, he conceived and implemented automation of mail delivery to desktop PCs that brought down the manning requirement from 75 to 15 air warriors at the tele-printer cabin. He, while on deputation to Botswana Defence Force successfully made non-functional ERP software functional at their workshop. He was instrumental in speedy implementation of CAN through planning and innovative field trials while at DIT. He was commended by AOC-in- C, MC for his ingenuity in maintaining high serviceability of IMMOLS network by retrieving salvaged network components. He is a Certified Forensics Investigator, Globally Certified Incident Handler and Forensics Analyst. During his present tenure, the officer has designed and implemented a system for round the clock monitoring for detection of cyber breaches. He has been instrumental in plugging numerous cyber security loopholes. He has aided· other government agencies in successfully resolving a number of cases relating to cyber security. The officer with his domain knowledge, has been able to identify malware and has shared this knowledge with other government organizations, thus contributing towards improving the national cyber security posture. The officer has also involved in security evaluation of new software and hardware inductions in the IAF and has identified and helped mitigate security vulnerabilities. The Officer is an epitome of dedication, involvement, and creative thinking. For distinguished service of a high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander J Angel Reuben. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| AVM | Kantipudi Suresh Babu 17588 MET | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 17 | Announced 26 Jan 17 | |
| Details : |  Air Vice Marshal Kantipludi Suresh Babu (17588) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in Meteorological branch on 14 Jun 1985. Apart from holding various important appointments in field units, he has held several instructional and staff appointments, which include tenure as Senior Directing Staff (Met) at Air Force Administrative College, C Met 0 at HQ EAC and Principal Director (Met) at Air HQ before taking over as Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Met) on 01 Jan 2013. During his tenure as C Met 0, HQ WAC, he ensured that operational Met guidelines and advisories of exceptional order were issued for smooth conduct of routine operational flying as well as for various exercises in the AOR of HQ EAC. As Directing Staff in the Faculty of Meteorology, he brought about significant improvements in the course curriculum be revamping in-service courses. He has been commended by AOC-in-C in 2001 and by the CAS in 2004. During his tenure appointment as PO (Met) at Air HQ and thereafter as ACAS (Met), his professional vision and dedicated approach has enabled modernisation of the Met infrastructure in the IAF. He oversaw and ensured proper installation and commissioning of Microwave Radiometers (MWR), Lightning Detection System (LTS) Network, High Resolution Picture Transmission (HRPT) Receiver and Digital Theodolites for weather observation. Under his able leadership, Centre for Air Force Numerical Weather Prediction (AFCNWP) has emerged as the meteorological centre of excellence for operational guidance for the Indian Air Force and is being utilised by operators as well as forecasters all over the IAF. He was instrumental in provisioning of accurate weather observation and quality weather forecasts during conduct of various exercises like Iron Fist, Live Wire, Dakshin Prahar, Eastern Seaboard, Shock Effect besides national events like RD Parade and HADR Operations like Megh Rahat and Cyclone Hudbud .. It is due to his dynamism and proactive approach that the Met service are fine-tuned and operationally critical and relevant data on wind shear, icing information etc. are continuously updated on the web portal, 'Mausam on Line', developed in-house at no extra cost to the exchequer. The portal comprehensively addresses the requirements of Met services and products for the various users across the Air Force. Relentless and meticulous efforts put in by the Air Officer have culminated in successful conclusion of the contract for 11 Doppler Weather Radars. With the induction of these DWRs, the current lots of projects for modernisation of Met services will be completed, greatly enhance the flight safety environment in the IAF. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Air Vice Marshal Kantipudi Suresh Babu. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| AVM | Vibhas Pande 17647 AE(M) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 17 | Announced 26 Jan 17 | |
| Details : |  Air Vice Marshal Vibhas Pande (17647) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as an engineer in the Aeronautical Engineering (Mechanical) branch on 29 Aug 84. The Air Officer has held the appointments of Senior Production Engineer (SPE) at 11 BRD, Directing Staff at College of Air Warfare, Commanding Officer of Armament Inspection Wing (AAIW) & 1 Central Indigenisation and Manufacturing Depot (CIMD) and Command Engineering Officer at HQ WAC. As SPE at 11 BRD, the officer introduced the concept of High Failure Rate Aggregates (HARAs) to improve the reliability of such aggregates. His contribution towards Indigenisation resulted in development of several technologically complex items that included Power Supply Modules and Main Landing Gear axle of MIG-29 aircraft. For his professional contribution, he was commended by Chief of Air Staff in 2001. He has held the appointment of Air Officer Commanding at 11 BRD, AF since 05 Oct 15 and has recently taken over as SMSO, EAC. At AAIW, he established the reason for bursting of imported 57 mm rockets. This enabled IAF to negotiate with OEM to provide free of cost refurbishment of propellant for the entire lot of one lakh rockets. During his tenure as Command Engineering Officer at HQ WAC, he contributed effectively towards Maintenance Safety by bringing in improvement in maintenance culture. With effective marshaling of resources placed under him, he could achieve reduced downtime of assets that resulted in marked improvement in serviceability status across the fleets. Reduction of AOG, being one of the KRAs, resulted in recovery/ rotation of more than 50 prolonged AOG aircraft within a span of two years. This had a direct bearing towards enhancement of operational capabilities of IAF, wherein the Operational Units under HQ WAC witnessed 10% year on year increase in flying efforts for the two consecutive years. As Air Officer Commanding at 11 BRD, in a short span of time, he instituted measures to step up production activities to catch up with the task and ensured adherence to production timelines. In addition, cases for LE studies on Landing Gears and Hydraulic Booster of MIG-29 ac have been initiated for long term benefit and sustenance of fleet. On the other hand, he has also put in concerted efforts to improve quality of life of Depot personnel through upgradation of community amenities as well as working environment. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Air Vice Marshal Vibhas Pande. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| AVM | Pothureddi Subhash Babu 17908 ACCT | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 17 | Announced 26 Jan 17 | |
| Details : |  Air Vice Marshal Pothureddi Subhash Babu (17908) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in Accounts branch on 14 Jun 1985. Over a period of three decades of service, He had worked in various IAF establishments viz flying, missile, signals, training, ED, AFCAO, AFGIS, Command HO, Air HO and also in inter service organizations and held important assignments. He is a graduate of DSSC, CDM and also alumnus of Administrative Staff College of India. As AOC, AFCAO, he was instrumental in dispensing the hard copies of pay slips which is in line with the directions of Hon'ble PM on digitiztion. He ensured that rank pay arrears (Major Dhanapalan) are paid within forty-five days of issue of Govt orders with perfection. With his dynamic approach to the long pending proposal, he ensured migration of 13,000 erstwhile Gp 'D' civilians from unit accounts to IRLA system at AFCAO. This has enhanced the morale of IAF civilians. During his tenure as PO, Fin P at Dte of Fin P from Apr 2013 to Jun 14, he contributed immensely to the Air Force with his is analytical and articulated rational inputs he has not only ensured exemption from MoD(F) the inevitable 10% cut (Rs. 1,890 Cr) in the Revenue Budget for Fy 2013-14 but also succeeded in additional allocation of Rs. 525 Cr. His immense contribution during the negotiations with the Russian vendor on SU-30 Capital contract has resulted in huge savings to the exchequer. During his tenure as Secretary, AFGIS, despite turbulent national and international financial markets, he had contributed through his innovative financial techniques and analytical inclination in increasing the yield of AFGIS substantially. Also, due to his untiring efforts, he was instrumental in recovery of more than Rs. 25 Cr from defaulting companies. Generation of additional Rs. 30 Cr income from the same quantum of corpus bears testimony to his financial acumen. These measures facilitated in enhancing the benefits under various welfare schemes of the AFGIS. AVM PS Babu with his sound professional knowledge and financial acumen is responsible for effective financial management in areas he had worked. The officer has been continuously pursuing excellence in all the activities undertaken by him. He inspires and motivates his colleagues and subordinates by personal example through his hard work and unflinching loyalty to the service and had set very high standards. For his distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Air Vice Marshal Pothureddi Subhash Babu. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Air Cmde | Arvind Menon 17034 ADM | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 17 | Announced 26 Jan 17 | |
| Details : |  Air Commodore Arvind Menon (17034) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as an air traffic controller in administrative branch on 29 Dec 1982. In a career spanning over thirty three years, the officer has served in a wide array of appointments encompassing operational, administrative, staff and instructional assignments. He was closely associated with IPKF operations as a controller during 'Op Pawan', for which he was commended by the Chief of Air Staff in 1988. He served as C Adm 0 at Command Hospital, AF Bangalore, where he played a pivotal role in the upgrade of Admin and Medical infrastructure, leading to the Hospital being adjudged the best Armed Forces Hospital on three consecutive occasions. He served as the C Adm 0 of a premier fighter base in the Western sector, where he was closely involved in infrastructure upgrade planning for induction of newly acquired fighter ac. As JDPO-3 at Air HQ, he demonstrated his flair for HR management through significant contributions in the formulation of policies pertaining to terms and conditions and management of SSC cadre. The officer has also served a three year instructional assignment in the College of Defence Management. As Principal Director Organisation (Administration) at Air HQ, the officer was successful in putting together an effective team in Dte of Org for pursuing several administrative initiatives for Govt approval. Scaling of winter clothing for cooks, enhanced rations, protective clothing for safaiwalas, chef coat for instructional staff at NTTI, Belgaum and meals ready-to-eat for Garud Special Forces are some of the initiatives that have reached fruition. He provided added impetus to the efforts of units for procurement of modern kitchen equipment by leveraging his effective liaison with the Pr IFA(AF) and the Addl CGDA to expedite long pending cases. As a step towards greater fire safety awareness in units, he guided the Org team effort towards the issue of a comprehensive lAP on Domestic Fire Services. He was also an integral part of the team that worked towards the creation of a software module for pan-Air Force linkage of Adm Control Centres in support of operations. As CPSO, HQ WAC, resolution of manpower issues, expeditious processing of outsourcing proposals, pro-active steps towards improvement in messing facilities, development of sports infrastructure and streamlining of security related procurements by units have been his focus areas, which have yielded positive results. For his distinguished service of high order, professionalism, unmatched zeal and constant pursuit of excellence, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Air Commodore Arvind Menon (Retired). | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Air Cmde | Alok Singh 17622 AE(M) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 17 | Announced 26 Jan 17 | |
| Details : |  Air Commodore Alok Singh was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as an engineer in the Aeronautical Engineering (Mechanical) branch on 20 August 1984.The officer is a graduate Mechanical Engineer with PG in Materials Science from liT Mumbai. He is an aluminous of National Defence College and has undergone Higher Defence Management Course as well as Defence Services Staff Course. He is trained and vastly experienced on Jaguar aircraft. The Air Officer has held appointments of Chief Engineering Officer (CEO) of a fighter base, Commandant of Air Force Technical College (AFTC) and has served at Air HQ as Director, Engineering Jaguar and Principal Director, Armament & Safety Equipment. As CEO, he ensured high operational availability of two Jaguar Sqns and one Helicopter unit. The officer also commanded the Parade for award of President's Standards to two flying units. As Commandant of AFTC, he groomed and motivated hundreds of young officers being indoctrinated into IAF, and improved the curriculum by providing it a contemporary Technological Edge. During staff appointments at Air HQ, he ensured timely provisioning of Aircraft and Armament spares, by enhanced liaison with HAL Divisions and Ordnance Factories. He was instrumental in signing of critical contracts for "Common Standard of Preparation for Jaguar" and "In-flight Refueling Probe on Jaguar Twin-Seater Aircraft". In his present appointment as Command Engineering Officer at HQ Western Air Command, the officer has been involved in numerous Operational Exercises, and has ensured high availability of combat aircraft throughout. He has displayed competence in analysis of complex snags on aircraft, and has been pro-active in ensuring high standards of maintenance safety. Study on Jaguar Aircraft Systems' Reliability was undertaken and evolution of measures to enhance Op Capability was done by the officer. He ensures efficiency and cost effectiveness in all activities related to aircraft maintenance. All efforts have endeavoured to improve the overall aircraft serviceability in WAC AOA. For distinguished service of a high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Air Commodore Alok Singh. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Air Cmde | Shrirang Chaoji 17673 AE(M) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 17 | Announced 26 Jan 17 | |
| Details : |  Air Commodore Shrirang Chaoji (17673) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as an Engineer in Aeronautical Engineering (Mechanical) branch on 10 Sep 84. During his 31 years of distinguished service, he has held various Staff and Field appointments like Chief Engineering Officer of a fighter base, Director Air Staff Inspection at Air HQ, Command Engineering 'A' at HQ Maintenance Command, Senior Engineer (Aircraft) of a fighter base, Officer-in-charge Drafting Tech 1&11 at Air Force Record Office and Command Engineering Officer at Central Air Command. The Air Officer has varied experience of Jaguar and Mirage 2000 aircraft. He was instrumental in setting up of Jaguar TETIRA School and developing various training models/aids. At Air Force Record Office, he contributed towards creation of database for computerization of posting. As CEO of a Jaguar base, he initiated indigenization of weapon loading trolley, carried out life cycle study of various structural components of Jaguar aircraft. During his tenure, the Wing was declared "Best in Maintenance" in CAC. He used his vast field experience to inspect units all over Air Force and conducted various audits on Jaguar, Mirage and Weapon audit during his two tenures in DASI. In his present tenure as C Eng 0, CAC, he worked systematically to improve the serviceability and maintenance standards of all aircraft and equipment. During "Op Rahat", prompt and effective maintenance was ensured for helicopter operations from one of the bases of CAC. Continuous maintenance support for "Op Triveni" is testimony to the officer's planning and execution. The Air Officer worked ceaselessly to ensure healthy Aviation and flight safety environment and conducted two technical supervisor workshops towards this. During his tenure, in last eighteen months 16 AOG built up were carried out, including recovery of long pending AOG of Jaguar Trainer, Su 30, AN-32, Mi-17 and Flight Refueling Aircraft (FRA) despite acute spares constraints. Armament awareness within units of CAC was given impetus by conducting "Armament awareness Month" in Jun 15. Live Bomb demolition exercise training was undertaken at Singpur range for the first time in CAC. For his extraordinary contribution to the Indian Air Force, professional competence, devotion to duty and distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Air Commodore Shrirang Chaoji. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Air Cmde | Vinod Kumar Singh Yadav 17734 ADM | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 17 | Announced 26 Jan 17 | |
| Details : |  Air Commodore Vinod Kumar Singh Yadav (17734) was commissioned in the Indian Air force as Fighter Controller in the Administrative Branch on 21 Dec 84. He has held a number of important appointments including Commanding Officer of a Transportable Radar Unit, Directing Staff at Tactics and Combat Development Establishment (TACDE), Senior Training Officer Air Defence College, Chief Administrative Officer of an important transport base, Director Control & Reporting (C&R) at the Directorate of Air Staff Inspection (ASI), Command Air Defence Officer (C&R) and currently holding the appointment of Command Personnel Staff Officer (CPSO) at HQ SWAC since 01 Ju12015. During his service career he has been involved in preparing guidelines for camouflaging mobile AD Units, development of guidelines for inspection of IACCS Tactical Nodes and consolidation of C&R Op and maint aspects. The Officer was involved in the induction of Indra-IJ radars and also formed a part of the Core Advisory Group for project Drishti in Sri Lanka LTIE Operations. He has been commended by CAS and AOC-in-C. He is a Cat 'Aye' Master Fighter Controller. During his tenure as CPSO, he streamlined the functioning of HR, discipline and Provost Sections at HQ SWAC. He has been a constant source of guidance for the field units in these functions. In addition to the duties of CPSO, he was also given the additional responsibility of overseeing the infrastructure development work at Command Building at Vayu Shakti Nagar where a new campus for HQ SWAC is being developed. He ensured desired augmentation of manpower during the President Standards Presentation at a base under this command in 2016. Also, his overall understanding, involvement and direct supervision led to hassle free augmentation, security coordination, interaction with SPG and viable accommodation plan for implementation at site during Iron Fist 2016. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Air Commodore Vinod Kumar Singh Yadav. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Air Cmde | Pradeep Kumar Choudhary 17828 AE(M) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 17 | Announced 26 Jan 17 | |
| Details : |  Air Commodore Pradeep Kumar Choudhary (17828) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as engineer in the Aeronautical Engineering (Mechanical) branch on 25 Feb 85. In 31 years of distinguished service, he has held several important appointments that include Senior Engineer (Aircraft) of a premier fighter base, Group Director (Maint) with LCA PMT at Aeronautical Development Agency, Commanding Officer of 4 BRD, Staff appointment with DASI, D Eng BT and PD Eng J&M at Air HO and AOC Air Force Station Kanpur. Air Cmde PK Choudhary is a hardcore professional with a penchant to pursue challenging projects. During his career, he has been commended on two occasions by AOC-in-C and once by CAS. While working as SE (AC) at 40 Wg, he achieved and sustained highest serviceability for Mirage fleet. He also demonstrated his engineering prowess, wherein a belly landed Mirage aircraft was successfully recovered from a foreign base. As Commanding Officer of 4 BRD, exhibiting true engineering ability he could double the Viper aero-engine production thereby successfully offsetting the peak demand on Kiran aircraft. As D Eng BT at Air HO with careful planning and foresightedness he inducted the Pilatus aircraft smoothly on time flawlessly. As PD J&M, he could successfully negotiate and execute the important Additional Agreement No.8 which gave a new lease of life to the Mirage fleet in terms of spares support for next 20 years. Under his stewardship as AOC of AF Stn, Kanpur the Depots achieved record production for year 2015-2016. Due to his effective leadership 1 BRD and 29 ED were selected as the best Aircraft Depot and Equipment Depot respectively for the year 2015-16. He has played a pivotal role in enhancing the security of the base by round the clock monitoring of the base activities through IP based CCTV network. For his distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Air Commodore Pradeep Kumar Choudhary (Retired). | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Air Cmde | Akhilesh Kumar Verma 18063 AE(M) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 17 | Announced 26 Jan 17 | |
| Details : |  Air Commodore Akhilesh Kumar Verma (18063) AE(M) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as an engineer in the Aeronautical Engineering (Mechanical) branch on 09 Sep 1985. He is presently posted at Air HQ (RKP) as Principal Director Maintenance Inspection (PDMI) wef 01 Ju115. He is qualified on MiG 21 variants and has held appointments which include Joint Director in Weapon Cell and DASI at Air HQ as well as STO of a MiG 21 squadron and CEO of a front line fighter base. He has commanded Mechanical Training Institute (MTI) at Tambaram. He is an M Tech from liT Mumbai and has undergone staff courses at Defence Services Staff College & College of Air Warfare. The officer is an exceptional professional. As the Tech Fit Cdr, he spearheaded the recovery of MiG 21 with a broken nose oleo from the runway at night. As CEO, he was instrumental in the inhouse repair of a damaged Heron RPA wing & tail plane. At MTI, he introduced modern teaching techniques and training aids. At HQ CAC, as Command Engineering Coordinator, he executed the yearly aircraft stagger plan and ensured that the s-Maintenance Management System pilot project at 40 Wg rolled out on schedule. As Command Tettra Officer at HQ TC, he standardized TETTRA web pages and on-line evaluation models. His efforts led to allocation of a Su·30 and ALH to TETTRAs imparting realistic practical training. Long pending cases for initial Policy Page for HAWK and RPA TETTRAs were cleared. As PDMI, the officer has standardized qualitative and quantitative aspects of evaluation across BRDs, EDs Communication Units, TTls and TETTRAs. He ensured that Quality Audits of various fleets are objective oriented towards realization of IAFs operational goals. Important aspects regarding Maintenance Officers Categorisation Board such as AFO revision, standardization of ab-lnito training of AE officers at AFA and AFTC as well as relocation were expeditiously resolved. For distinguished service of a high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Air Commodore Akhilesh Kumar Verma. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Air Cmde | Seethepalli Shrinivas 18787 F(P) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 17 | Announced 26 Jan 17 | |
| Details : |  Air Commodore Seethepalli Shrinivas (18787) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as a fighter pilot in the Flying Branch on 13 Jun 87. He is a 'Category A' Flying Instructor with over 4000 hours of flying on Mig-21 , Kiran, HPT- 32, Iskra, PC-7 Mk II and Chetak. He is an alumnus of CDM and DSSC. He was commended for his professionalism by the AOC-in-C. During his service, he has commanded Institute of Flight Safety, Flying Instructors School and Basic Flying Training School. He has been Directing Staff at CAW and Ops Staff at HQ CAC. In 2010, he led a team for the technical and field evaluation of a new basic trainer aircraft. The task, which had marked urgency due to the grounding of the HPT-32 and the resultant void in the training resources, was efficiently completed within a record seven months period and the PC-7 MK 11 was inducted into the IAF in Feb 13. Since he took over as Chief Instructor (Flying), AFA has flown over 25000 hours of accident free flying towards the training of ab-initio pilots. Apart from the conduct of Stage-I flying training, AFA was also tasked to conduct training for Stage-I I (Fighter) as a pilot project. Since the aircraft itself was new, all exercises applicable to fighter training had to be flown and evaluated and comprehensive procedures developed, apart from the designing of an optimum flying training syllabus. He conducted all trials and designed the syllabus and ensured that the same was approved in time. He personally supervised all aspects of conduct of Stage-II (Fighter) training, the first course to which was commissioned in Dec 15. He also planned the Low Level Aerobatic display profile on the PC-7 MK II trained pilots for the same. The display is now an integral part of major events like Aero India, CGP and AF Day parades and has won wide acclamation. In 2015, on the decision to induct women into the fighter stream, he personally acquainted all concerned women trainees with the intricacies involved and the rigours of fighter flying. Being a first ever option for women, he counseled them thoroughly about the requirements and helped them to not only recognise their potential but also take a matured decision. He ensured proper evaluation of women trainees, the first three of whom were trifurcated into the fighter stream in Dec 15. At all stages of his career, he has put the interests of service ahead of nay personal considerations and performed in an exemplary manner. He has always led by example and set standards that his subordinates strive to emulate. For distinguished service of a high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Air Commodore Seethepalli Shrinivas. 1 I ~ I | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Air Cmde | Vishwajit Vasudev Dedgaonkar 18813 F(P) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 17 | Announced 26 Jan 17 | |
| Details : |  Air Commodore Vishwajit Vasudev Dedgaonkar, VM {18813} was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as a pilot in the flying branch on 13 Jun 87. He has commanded a frontline Fighter Squadron (Sqn) and has been the Chief Operations Officer of a fighter base. The Air Officer is a Qualified Flying Instructor and an Instrument Rating Instructor and Examiner. He is an alumnus of the Defence Services Staff College and National Defence College, and has also undergone Army Higher Command Course. The officer was conferred with the Vayu Sena Medal in Jan 07. He is currently serving as the Air Officer Commanding of an Air Force Station. The Air Officer utilised his vast operational experience in not only providing crucial operational guidance to the two fighter Sqns which had recently been moved into the Base, but also resuscitated the operational environment for seamless fighter operations after an interval of two years. He also oversaw the induction of the first Missile System Sqn in the EAC AOR at this Base. The base assumes greater strategic significance in view of the evolving threat perception and is slated for the induction of a number of advanced weapon systems. The Air Officer took stock of the existing resources at Base and suggested effective methodology towards incorporating these foreseeable inductions into the Master Zonal Plan, necessitating minimal construction of new infrastructure, whilst reviving disused operational surfaces and infrastructure. The base was tasked to conduct the President's Standards Presentation {PSP} for two fighter Sqns in Nov 15. Despite the commitments relating to PSP, the base achieved all objectives of 'Exercise Livewire' held during the same month. The conduct of PSP at Base posed multiple challenges of remoteness of location, inadequacy of infrastructure to accommodate five hundred additional personnel for almost two months, and protracted monsoon with very heavy rainfall. The Base also required gearing up to host the Honourable President of India and close to 150 senior serving and retired dignitaries for the event, within a limited period of less than a year available. Undeterred by the challenges, the officer went about the job with immaculate planning and inspirational leadership, to have the infrastructure readied without any compromise in quality, gave befitting facelift to the Base and suitably prepared all the venues for execution of the event. He displayed exemplary co-ordination in garnering support from the Army and local civilian administration, besides judiciously deploying the station resources; to transform a wildly vegetated Base and its surroundings into a picturesque one within the short time. While leading from the front, he kept his team motivated at all times and ensured flawless execution of the event. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Air Commodore Vishwajit Vasudev Dedgaonkar, VM. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Air Cmde | Debashish Vedajna 19539 F(P) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 17 | Announced 26 Jan 17 | |
| Details : |  Air Commodore Debashish Vedajna (19539) was commissioned in the Indian Air force as a pilot in flying branch on 11 Jun 1988. During his career he has flown about 2700 hours on MIG-21, Jaguar and Hunter aircraft. The officer has held many important operational assignments including Chief Operation Officer of a premier Jaguar Base, Command Intelligence Officer of an Operational Command and Commanding Officer of the first Pechora Squadron of the IAF. He has served as the Team Leader (IAF) of Indian MRSAM Project Team (IMPT) in Israel for joint design and development of the MRSAM system and before assuming his present appointment was on deputation to DRDO for monitoring a strategic project. He took over command of an Air Force Station in Sep 2015. During his earlier tenure the officer was especially selected to head the MRSAM project at Israel in which he gave extremely valuable inputs to enhance the operational utilization of the system including redesigning of the display maps and key algorithms. With his professional approach and analytical mind he helped not only in giving correct direction to the entire project but helped in resolving the issues between Air HQ, DRDO and Israeli Aerospace Industries. Air Cmde Vedajna assumed the command of the Air Force Station with major responsibility to conduct IAF level Iron Fist 2016. The officer immediately took charge of the situation and got involved with understanding the requirement of the mega event. With his foresight and meticulous planning he led the preparations for Iron Fist 2016 with full gusto and with a keen eye for detail ensured that even small situations were anticipated well in time and corrective actions taken towards a flaw less conduct of Iron Fist 2016. The officer with his guidance and leadership qualities motivated the team, and set a new benchmark for conduct of such a large event. It is because of his involvement and foresight that Iron Fist 2016 was conducted in a befitting manner and was appreciated at all levels. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Air Commodore Debashish Vedajna. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Sanjay 18144 ADM | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 17 | Announced 26 Jan 17 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Sanjay (18144) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as Air Traffic Controller in the Administrative branch on 06 Dec 85. Apart from serving as Air Traffic Controller for twenty years, he has held several staff and command appointments at AFRO, HO MC and Air HO. He has been commended by the AOC-in-C and CAS. His distinguished career in Air Traffic Control includes Senior Air Traffic Control Officer tenure at two premiere fighter bases. While on deputation to Airports Authority of India (AAI) at Kolkata, he was among the select few Air Force Officers to undergo the Radar Approach Course at CATC, Allahabad. He was also the first Air Force instructor to be posted at a naval base in 1995. He is an alumnus of the College of Defence management, Secunderabad. As Officer in charge Career Planning for Airmen, he has been credited with the conceptualization and implementation of weightage marks for length of service, which has since become integral part in evolving a work ethic for AFRO with its main focus on transparency in postings, which led to quantum improvement in satisfaction level among air warriors. In his present appointment as Camp Commandant, he has been instrumental in the operationalisation of several prestigious works aimed at improving the working environment and bringing about greater efficiency in office space management. VRF Air conditioning in all the offices of Air HO building, upgradation of electrical infrastructure, provision of modern cafeteria at Vayu Bhawan and RK Puram, provision of workstations and compactors to a large number of office rooms and improvement in fire safety infrastructure have been singular achievements. The high level of functional synergy achieved with external agencies like CPWD and NDMC has been a hallmark of his tenure. Under his leadership, Air HO was declared 'Best in Horticulture' for 2013 and best maintained office building in Lutyens Zone in 2014. He has also steered the successful implementation of e-auction of salvage which has earned revenue of nearly 40 lakhs over a two year period. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Sanjay. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Deore Avinash Vasantrao 19022 AE(L) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 17 | Announced 26 Jan 17 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Deore Avinash Vasantrao (19022) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as an engineer in the Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics) branch on 05 Sep 87. He is posted to DSO (South West Zone). He has held the appointments of EW officer at AF Station Gwalior, Command Signal Officer at Central Air Command and Director EW at Air HQ. The Officer is MTech in Reliability Engg from liT Kharagpur and MS in Software Systems from BITS Pilani. The officer has consistently taken up challenges beyond the call of the duty. In 1995, he modified Pechora missile system to bring Simulator in Combat Mode to improve training. Bulky and slow Syrel Ground Processing Station was replaced with his developed software in 1999. This upgrade was offered for Rs. 11.5Cr by French OEM. IAF used this system for 14 years. He had introduced real time software system to replace failure prone legacy system to warn the ac in Op Readiness Platform from Base Air Def Control Centre in 2008. He designed the database for the EW asset monitoring for IAF in 2013. This software is in use in IAF. He ensured implementation of otherwise languishing project of Automated Data Analysis Software to analyse ZEW threats by making structural design changes. The officer has given innovative and futuristic way forward to bring about fundamental long term changes in the Intelligence gathering and analysis processes. The networked system is expected to connect numerous sensors, eliminate duplicities, integrate with real time inputs from other services with analysis tools before presenting to the analysts. The officer has devised and implemented systematic methodology ..The officer has carried out thorough analysis of op deployment of SWZ, identified and prioritized the Det locations for better Int gathering. CPU cooler, configuration changes in Oracle database server and modification of power supply unit have led to better availability of the system. During his tenure, SWZ has seen marked improvement in serviceability and op capability. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Deore Avinash Vasantrao. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Sumir Tandon 19094 AE(M) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 17 | Announced 26 Jan 17 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Sumir Tandon (19094) was commissioned as an engineer in the Aeronautical Engineering (Mechanical) branch on 07 Sep 1987. He is a postgraduate from liT, Madras. In his 28 years of distinguished service, he has held several important field, command and staff appointments. These include Senior Engineering Officer (SEa) of two front line fighter squadrons, Commanding Officer (CO) of a Technical Type Training (TETIRA) School, Joint Director Projects (JD Proj) at Air Headquarters and Joint Director at Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification (CEMILAC), DRDO. Whilst being SEa, he ensured maximum availability of aircraft during Kargil operations. As JD Proj, he coordinated various trial modifications resulting in enhancement of operational capability of IAF. As CO of TETIRA School, he improved the quality of training using innovative methods. At CEMILAC, he led a team of scientists in awarding airworthiness clearance for trial modification of a fighter upgrade programme. For his high sense of duty and professionalism in service, he was commended twice by CAS in 2008 and 2011. Group Captain S Tandon has been the Chief Engineering Officer of a premier Air base in South Western sector since Aug 2014. He exercised effective supervision and control of maintenance activities ensuring high aircraft and system serviceability at this premier flying base with a sizeable fleet of varied aircraft, both fixed and rotary wing. Under his able supervision, there has been 20% increase in quantum of flying in year 2015 at this base in comparison to previous years. He identified indigenous solutions and substitutes for aircraft tools and testers which resulted in foreign exchange savings and reduced the dependence on foreign vendors. He formulated Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for dismantling of an Infra-red missile without OEM support which helped in retrieving unserviceable missiles. This resulted in saving to the tune of rupees 2.5 crore to the exchequer. As a team leader, he prepared SOPs for preparation and loading of air armament stores on a fighter aircraft which enabled standardisation of these procedures across the IAF. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Sumir Tandon. ••• | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Kovali Shyam Sunder 19247 LGS | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 17 | Announced 26 Jan 17 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Kovali Shyam Sunder (19247) was commissioned in Indian Air Force in the Logistics branch on 19 Dec 1987 . He held appointments of Joint Director at Air HQ, SLO of AF Stn New Delhi, CO 42 ED, 29 ED and the Director (Lgs) at PMT (Project Monitoring Team) ADA for Light Combat Aircraft (LCA). He has successfully undergone the Flight Navigator Course, Advance Logistics Officers Course and Higher Defence Management Course. As the Lgs Offr of the First Indian Peace Keeping Contingent in Sudan, he contributed in a distinctive way in commissioning of an Air Base at a barren runway. Due to his sustained, conscientious and innovative approach, in less than six months, the base became self-sustaining. The efforts brought laurels and good name to the Indian Mission at Sudan and IAF. He had a stint at AF Station, New Delhi. As S Lgs 0, he successfully and flawlessly equipped and kitted UN Contingents, with an eye on quality and another on costs. The officer as CO 29 ED, played a lead /stellar role in removing numberof impediments for hastening imports, revitalizing dried sources of raw material, getting machines repaired on a fast track at GED, renew expired LCs and bottlenecks in indigenized spares were removed by his commitment and determination. His tenacious efforts resulted in recovery of fleet. During his career he has consistently exhibited tenacity, professionalism, foresight and innovative approach in his assignments. His perseverance, involvement and persuasive approach in supply chain activities with field units, resulted in better Co-ordination for effective AOG reduction, Budget Control and Cargo movement. He was exemplary in installing fiscal discipline in field units thus resulting in saving Rs 2.6 Crores in MT code head. His persuasive approach enhanced the internal checks thus obviating financial irregularities and audit Objections. His ingenious application of rules, regulations and policies articulated in the most professional manner received instant endorsement of IFA in smooth application of DFPDS 2015. The offer leads by example and has maintained very high morale of the men placed under him. For his distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Kovali Shyam Sunder. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Ashok Saini 19259 ACCT | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 17 | Announced 26 Jan 17 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Ashok Saini (19259) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in Accounts Branch on 19 Dec 87. Presently, the Officer is on the posted strength of Air HQ and functioning as Director, Air Force Pay Commission Cell (AFPCC). The Officer possesses a fine understanding of complex Pay I Pension matters and has analytical approach. For his in-depth knowledge on pay and Pension matters and pro-active approach to seek correct solutions, he was handpicked as Director, AFPCC from Dte of Air Veterans (DAV). He has exhibited strong personal commitment to achieve tasks of Air Force Pay Commission Cell. The Officer has exhibited thorough professionalism in Primary and Secondary duties during his stint at various prominent bases. Due to his sustained performance and positive attitude, the Officer was nominated for tenure with UN Peace Keeping Forces at Goma, DRC during 2007-08. He has also been detailed on coveted appointment of Chief Instructor (Accts) at AFA and subsequently, for the prestigious Higher Defence Management Course during 2013-14. The Officer has been awarded with AOC-in- C and Chief of Air staff Commendations. The Officer during his last appointment at DAV immensely contributed in bridging the information gap that existed with Veterans to ensure speedy settlement of cases. He was instrumental in conduct of Air Veteran rallies at Delhi and Chandigarh, followed by launch of a toll-free number and a user-friendly website of DAV, which was appreciated by Veteran fraternity and higher echelons. His active participation ensured that DAV bi-annual magazine "From the Tarmac" was made more informative and user-friendly. At AFPCC, the Officer has been actively involved in steering the One Rank One Pension issue. He played a pivotal role with regard to vexing issues of pay parity of Defence personnel with civilian counterparts and proposed the concept of Common Pay Matrix, to bridge the pay and status disparities. He has been instrumental in processing cases of Non-Functional Up-gradation and Trade Rationalisation etc. to name a few. The Officer's capacity to undertake sustained research and produce qualitative analysis speaks volume of his caliber and professionalism. For his distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Ashok Saini. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Charles Andrews 19413 AE(M) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 17 | Announced 26 Jan 17 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Charles Andrews (19413) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as an engineer in Aeronautical Engineering (Mechanical) branch on 07 Mar 1988. He has held several important command and staff appointments that include Command Engineering Officer (A) at Command Headquarters, Chief Engineering Officer of a forward air base, Officer Commanding of Test Engineering Squadron and Chief Instructor of the IAF Test Pilot School. He is an Experimental Flight Test Engineer and a graduate of Higher Air Command Course and Defence Service Staff College. During his career, he was cam mended on two occasions by AOC-in-C. Whilst being the Chief Engineering Officer of an Air Force Station, he performed creditably and ensured accident free flying operations including air armament flying of more than sixty aircraft detachments of various types of fixed wing and rotary wing aircraft. During his tenure, he meticulously planned and executed the offloading of two special armament trains. During Exercise Iron Fist 2013, the pilot project of Net Centric Display was operationalised and executed under the technical guidance of the officer within a short span of three months. This project was the first of its kind in the IAF. While working as Joint Director, Directorate of Air Staff Requirements at Air HQ, he was chosen as the project officer of special weapons and took part in the prestigious Indo-Russian Project of Fifth Generation Fighter aircraft with his professional capability and academic excellence he was chosen as the officer for several new and advanced air launched weapon procurement, some of which have now been inducted in the IAF. During his tenure as Director, Armament and Safety Equipment at Air HQ, he has put in sincere efforts and brought down the deviations in the Weapon Storage Areas. He has taken keep interest in Indigenisation of chaffs and flares, which were hitherto being procured at exorbitant price from foreign vendors. He has contributed significantly in the recent Air Force level war game exercises by undertaking research and analysis. For distinguished service of a high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Charles Andrews | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Surendra Kumar Verma 19895 F(P) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 17 | Announced 26 Jan 17 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Surendra Kumar Verma (19895) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as pilot in flying branch on 17 Dec 88. During his 28 years of distinguished service, he has held challenging appointments of Flight Commander of a premier Transport squadron, Commanding Officer an OSA-AK(M) Surface-to-Air Guided Weapon Squadron, Ops IIA of an Operational command of IAF and Directing Staff at the College of Air Warfare. He is presently the Station Commander of Airmen Training School (ATS) , Belagavi, a premier training station for all the airmen of IAF, since 11 Aug 14. He has over 4600 hours of accident free flying hours to his credit. An accomplished professional, the officer is a Right Hand Seat Check Pilot on AN-32 aircraft and is qualified in all the operational roles of the aircraft. He was part of the aircrew that carried out the first successful landing on AN-32 aircraft at the highest Advanced Landing Ground (ALG) of the world at Dualat Beg Oldie in 2008. The same year, he was instrumental in a successful causality evacuation of Indian security personnel from Afghanistan after a bomb blast. For his devotion to duty and dedicated professionalism, he was commended by Chief of the Air Staff. As Ops 11 A of HQ CAC, he was meticulous in forecasting, planning and execution of activation of Dharasu ALG by transport aircraft in Utlarakhand Hills, later utilised for rescue operations during flash floods in year 2013. As the Station Commander of ATS, Belagavi, he has displayed same zeal and professionalism in achieving higher training status for all the trainee airmen of the IAF. Under his personal supervision, various improvements in the training syllabus have been adopted to align the trainees with the changing modern requirements of the IAF. The syllabus in the fields aligns the trainees with the changing modern requirements of the IAF. The syllabus in the fields of weapon training, cyber security and communication skills were proactively reviewed and introduced in a record time. The officer's strict control on quality of training, resulted in 100% success in all the courses for past two years consecutively. His introduction of the books and training material for the cook and mess waiter trainees resulted in improving the standards of the culinary skills across all the messes of the IAF. He has meticulously planned the training infrastructure of the station to cater for the increased intake of trainees in future so that this demand of manpower shortage of the IAF is met seamlessly. The officer has displayed a deep sense of commitment to the service throughout his career and is a true role model for his juniors to follow. He set his own example in grooming the personnel and the new recruits into worthy air warriors. For the distinguished service of a high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Surendra Kumar Verma. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Harjinder Singh 20303 AE(L) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 17 | Announced 26 Jan 17 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Harjinder Singh (20303) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as an engineer in the Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics) branch on 04 Sep 1989. He graduated in Computer Science Engineering from Anna University. He has held appointments of Engineering Officer in MiG-27 Squadron, Chief Technical Officer of Radar Signal Unit and Senior Software engineer at Software Development Institute (SDI). During his tenure at SDI, he developed an Air Defence Simulator which is cleared and used by DASI as a testing tool for Fighter Controllers. The officer also developed a world class, Visual Tower Simulator for ATC controllers, which is functional at Air Force Academy. He played a key role in integration of Fire Control Radar on the ageing Jaguar aircraft. He was also actively involved in integration of Very High Frequency (VHF) Omni Range/Instrument Landing System (VOR/ILS) and Tactical Air Navigation (TACAN) on Jaguar aircraft, which enabled IAF to participate in various international exercises. These initiatives resulted in substantial benefits to the IAF and are being used as a reference model for other developments. As Director of electronic-Maintenance Management System (e-MMS), he joined the project group in December 2010 and as member secretary of Contract Negotiation Committee, carried out immaculate bench marking and assessment of commercial bids. Minute details visualised by the officer proved valuable during conceptualisation of Pilot Phase with the vendor. This provided a mechanism for testing and proying by which critical maintenance workflows on selected aircraft fleets before rolling out the solution across all fleets and systems. Timely resolution of critical issues on aircraft detachment operation module, mitigation of mobile device encryption solution, AFNET network augmentation requirements and issuance of project implementation directives by the officer ensured smooth execution of the project at pilot sites. His leadership and vision was instrumental in implementing this project, which will transform the way in which maintenance will be carried out in the IAF. All these efforts culminated in the official 'Inauguration of project e-MMS' by the CAS during May 2016. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Harjinder Singh. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Arockia Jeyachandran 20577 MED | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 17 | Announced 26 Jan 17 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Arockia Jeyachandran (20577) is an alumnus of Madurai Medical College commissioned in Indian Air Force on 27 Dec 1989 and is presently the Director Medical Services (HR). Right from the initial year of service he has always displayed exemplary commitment towards providing quality healthcare and believes in service before self. He was the first medical officer posted to Thoise in 1990, the forward base supporting unit to Op Meghdoot and was the architect of establishing MI Room and formulating Medical War Plans. During his tenure as Commanding Officer of 6 AFH, his untiring and resourceful approach resulted in overcoming many obstacles for getting State Govt clearance to initiate construction of new hospital building. He was posted at Office of DGAFMS in Equipment & Stores group and as DMS (E&S) at Air HO. SMOs and COs of medical establishments look up to him for solving intricate issues of procurement due to his expertise in the field of Medical Stores management. Recognizing his unflinching and dedicated commitment towards service he was selected to undergo prestigious National Security and Strategic Studies Course at NDC in 2014. In his present tenure, he is well known and highly regarded not only for his responsiveness and domain knowledge in HFl issues but also his kind and calm demeanor. His vision, fortitude and pro-active mind set in re-appropriating the existing resources for enhancing the medical facilities at all lAF hospitals by posting specialists of all basic specialties have increased clientele satisfaction manifold. It is a testament to his success as a HR manager that deficiency of 74 medical officers was brought to 20 in one year due to his initiative and constant interaction with SMOs ensuring that newly inducted doctors who joined continued in service. For distinguished service of a high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Arockia Jeyachandran. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Shardul Dayanand Patil 21116 AE(L) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 17 | Announced 26 Jan 17 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Shardul Dayanand Patil (21116) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as an engineer in the Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics) branch. He is on the posted strength of Air Force Station Ojhar from 01 Oct 2013. He is presently working as the Team Leader of MiG-29 Upgrade Project Cell (UPC). The officer has been working as Flight Test Engineer for the prestigious MiG-29 Upgrade Programme and has been part of the MiG-29 Project Management Team at Russia. Due to his knowledge and flight testing skill, the officer was detailed to steer this programme since its inception. Due to his continuous evaluation and perseverance, Russians were forced to implement the aircraft logic and interfaces that were beneficial for operations of the Indian Air Force. He was also instrumental in redefining the logic related to system like Radar, Identification Friend Foe, Counter Measure Dispensing System, Group Actions, etc. His involvement in the project has helped Indian Air Force to extract operational potential much beyond the contracted capability with improved user satisfaction. After transfer of six Design and Development (0&0) aircraft from Russia to India, the officer was repatriated and assumed his present post. As team leader MiG-29 UPC, he took the full ownership of programme and single handedly completed pending flight test programme on MiG-29 Upgrade aircraft along with RAC 'MiG' in a manner that helped in achieving full capability of the upgraded aircraft in a short span of time. He kept track of complete programme and guided the operational and maintenance crew for fruitful utilization of the upgrade aircraft. His dedication, involvement and wholehearted participation has helped Indian Air Force to achieve its vision of MiG- 29 Upgrade aircraft. The officer has a major contribution in success of MiG-29 Upgrade programme. For his dedication towards the MiG-29 Upgrade programme and distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Shardul Dayanand Patil. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Abhijeet Nene 22534 F(P) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 17 | Announced 26 Jan 17 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Abhijeet Nene (22534) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as a pilot in the flying branch on 21 Jun 1993. The officer is a Cat 'A' Qualified Flying Instructor, Fighter Strike Leader, graduate of the Malaysian Armed Forces Staff College and holds a Post Graduate Diploma from University of Malaya, where he was adjudged as the best officer. He has served as Directing Staff in Flying Instructors' School and as Officer ilc Training in Tactics and Air Combat Development Establishment. He has commanded a fighter squadron, which was adjudged as the best fighter sqn during his tenure. He has an experience of over 4500 hours on various fighter and trainer ac. In all his key appointments, he has had a flawless aerospace safety record. In his present appointment, he was the officer primarily in charge of conduct of all phases of Air Force level exercise in year 2015. He prepared and delivered the op presentation and also handled all aspects of the tabletop exercise. During the op phase, he ensured translation of the Commander's intent into execution. Apart from achieving objectives laid down by Air HQ, he formulated command objectives and ensured that they were met. Various new and innovative ideas were practised. All missions were planned with attention to detail to ensure mission success as well as flight safety. Unforeseen circumstances such as weather, non-availability of certain bases etc were well managed to ensure continued conduct of exercise. The officer drafted the latest Command Op Instructions in which he ensured accurate articulation of Commander's intent. In addition, he reviewed the format of the Op Instructions, wherein specific action points for Command staff, Station Commanders and Commanding Officers are clearly laid down. lnnovative ideas practised and lessons learnt during Air Force level exercise have been incorporated. He also carried out extensive interactions with various army agencies to understand adversary disposition and tactics, down to the lowest formation. The command op plans prepared by him lay special attention to details such as exact weapon to target matching, fuse settings, effect of weather etc. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Abhijeet Nene. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Anurag Sharma 22682 F(P) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 17 | Announced 26 Jan 17 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Anurag Sharma (22682) was commissioned in the Indian Air force as a pilot in fighter stream on 18 Dec 1993 and has flown more than 4200 hrs on various types of fighter and trainer aircraft. The officer is a Cat 'A' Qualified Flying Instructor, a M.Sc. graduate from DSSC and an M. Phil graduate from the prestigious School of Advanced Air and Space Studies (SAASS), Air University, USA. He has been a Directing Staff at Flying Instructors' School, an Air Force Examiner on Su-30MKI, Jaguar, Kiran and HPT-32 aircraft, and commanded a Su-30MKI Sqn prior to taking over as Chief Operations Officer (COO) of a forward Air Force base in the Eastern Sector. Since his posting as the COO of the easternmost fighter base in IAF, he has been working conscientiously, assiduously and tenaciously towards facilitating the organizational goals. The base that houses a SU-30MKI Sqn is a busy airfield with extensive fighter flying, transport air maintenance sorties and regular helicopter operational detachments for armament training, NVG camps and Operational Exploitation Workshops (HEOW). The operating environment at the base presents very unique challenges and conducting flying operations of such a large variety of aircraft from a deteriorating operating surface with limited parking space under marginal weather conditions requires extensive round the clock supervision and personal involvement. During Ex-Livewire in Nov 15, a variety of aircraft were tasked to operate from the base. The officer's foresight, meticulous planning and personal involvement ensured that old and dilapidated surfaces that had not been used for many years were wrought-up to the desired standards for fighter operations. Round the clock operations of a variety of aircraft, including RPAs for the first time, from the base were facilitated by the officer's personal involvement and initiative. He has used his knowledge, vast experience and initiative to ensure accident/ incident free flying operations under difficult operating conditions with a young and inexperienced team of officers functioning under him. The same has been appreciated by various inspecting agencies and his enormous contribution in all spheres, especially operations was recognised by Eastern Air Command, Indian Air Force by awarding the base the' Pride of EAC'. Apart from executing his primary job with utmost dedication, the officer also involves himself beyond the call of his duty to interact with junior officers to groom and develop their professional, leadership and personal traits as officers of this fine organization. Be it profession, sports or social, the officer with his conscientious approach and initiative, always puts his best foot forward and presents a shining example of the finest traditions of the Indian Air Force. His professional conduct of 1965 Air War Symposium, insightful lecture in Centre of Air Power Studies seminar and hosting Joint interaction with Army officers set the benchmark for conduct of any such events. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Anurag Sharma (Retired). | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Vikram Govind 23722 F(P) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 17 | Announced 26 Jan 17 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Vikram Govind (23722) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as a pilot in fighter stream on 16 Dec 95 and is presently serving at Air Headquarters in the Directorate of Air Staff Inspection (DASI). A Fighter Combat Leader with over 2300 hours of flying, of which over 1200 hours are on the MiG-21 aircraft, he has served as Directing Staff at the prestigious Tactics and Air Combat Development Establishment where he has co-authored the first book on 'Beyond Visual Range' combat. He was Flight Commander of a Mirage-2000 Squadron and has commanded a frontline MiG-21 Squadron. As Flight Commander and Commanding Officer, he ensured a safe flying environment without compromising on quality or quantity of operational flying. As a flying team inspector of DASI, he is responsible for inspecting and evaluating the operational readiness status of fighter units. He has displayed utmost sincerity and good operational orientation during inspections and audits of combat units. As part of the recently concluded pan IAF exercise, his operational appreciation was adjudged as the best. He was also instrumental in preparing the debrief module for the tabletop portion of the Exercise. As an umpire during the exercise, he was part of the analysis team which worked to draw out important lessons for the IAF. His tactical acumen was also utilised to prepare the IAF team for the Indo-UK exercise in July 2015. For distinguished service of a high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Vikram Govind. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Wg Cdr | Mohan Rana 26776 LGS | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 17 | Announced 26 Jan 17 | |
| Details : |  Wing Commander Mohan Rana (26776) was commissioned in Indian Air Force in the Logistics branch on 15 Dec 2001 and has consistently performed all his duties in a very highly professional manner while handling field and staff assignments. In his career, Wg Cdr Mohan Rana has handled all the Logistics functions while being posted to fighter, transport and helicopter bases. In a Movement Control Unit, he organised the movement of Army troops to their Ops locations by timely providing Military Special Trains. In Air Force Station New Delhi, he maintained high serviceability of over 500 MT vehicles by expediting the procurement of spares and was also involved in the kitting of three UN Mission Contingents every year. He was commended by the CAS in 2011 for prompt Logistics support in the northernmost airbase of IAF which helped the base achieve its designated air maintenance role. In his present tenure as Joint Director Engineering Mirage (Q) at Air HQ, he contributed towards finalisation of the 'Long Term Product Support Agreement' with the Mirage OEMs, also referred to as Additional Agreement No. 8 (AA-8) which was pending for over six years. AA-8 defines the Contractual Clauses and Pricing Philosophy for procurement of Mirage spares till the year 2034. The three Door to Door Repair Contracts (DTDRCs) of Mirage 2000 expired between Oct 2013 and Mar 2014 resulting in accumulation of 900 Mirage repairable which affected fleet serviceability. Towards renewal and approval of three DTDRCs, he incessantly endeavoured and was successful in finalisation of the contracts worth Rs. 1300 Crores. In addition to his current appointment, he is also performing the duties as Staff Officer to Marshal of the Air Force with utmost devotion and integrity. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Mohan Rana. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Sqn Ldr | Rohit Sharma 30941 AE(L) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 17 | Announced 26 Jan 17 | |
| Details : |  Squadron Leader Rohit Sharma (30941) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as an engineer in the Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics) branch on 04 January 201o. He is holding the appointment of Flight Commander, Pechora Combat Flight since Dec 2014. He possesses exceptional innovative skills and technical aptitude. To save the running hours of vintage Pechora equipment and to enhance the training value for the combat crew, he conceptualized and successfully fabricated Indigenized Pechora Combat Simulator (IPCS). This has resulted in not only saving crores to the exchequer in terms of fuel, spares and man hours but more importantly resulted in enhancing the operational preparedness of the Pechora units. Subsequently, he played a vital role in fabricating these simulators for all the Pechora bases in the IAF. The simulator was showcased to Hon'ble President of India on Air Force Day. Building on the functionality of IPCS, the officer has developed a Terminal Weapons Control Centre (TWCC) simulator. Till now, no such simulator existed in the IAF and the training was carried out with aircraft strikes. This simulator has allowed training for all elements of TWCC without the associated flying effort. Training is now possible even in adverse external factors such as weather, birds, flight safety restrictions etc. In September 2013, Missile Guidance Radar of the unit was experiencing frequent unserviceabilities due to faulty timer relay. OEM supplied solid state timer relays were not in stock at that time. He successfully fabricated a digital micro controller based timer relay thus reducing the down time of combat equipment. In January 2015, the officer fabricated a micro controller based digital timer unit for monitoring the readiness states of missiles. It not only aids in efficient management of missiles preparation cycles but also significantly eases the job of combat crew. In addition, the officer is presently working on towards digitization of power supply modules. For his technical aptitude, innovativeness and distinguished service of high order at such a young age, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Squadron Leader Rohit Sharma. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| MWO | Jasvinder Singh Maan 625995 OR | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 15 Aug 17 | Announced 15 Aug 17 | |
| Details : | 625995 Master Warrant Officer Jasvinder Singh Mann, Radar Fitter was enrolled in the Indian Air Force in technical trade on 01 Oct 1980. In his distinguished service, the air warrior has served in ground Radar system (PAR, SRE) and Mobile Missile Preparation Units (MMPU). He is OEM trained in maintenance of Russian Air Launched Missiles (ALMs)/ Guided Bombs (GBs). The MWO is currently on the posted strength of GURT, in south western sector. The MWO possesses excellent professional knowledge on testing & servicing of ALMs/ GBs. His knowledge, trade skills, ability to offer innovative solutions and willingness to assume additional responsibilities, makes him an asset to IAF. The MWO had developed indigenous solutions to repair frequently failing FDR milking system of Mig-29 aircraft and had developed an integrated FDR milking device for Jaguar aircraft in one of the air base in western sector. He was also instrumental in establishment of GURT testers at controlling Air base in western sector during Fire Power Demonstration in 2009. In the year 2012, while carrying out survey for life extension checks of ALMs, the MWO proved that the unserviceabilities declared by Russians were actually due to the malfunction of ATEs. On three such occasions, unserviceable ATEs were successfully recovered by the MWO, thus ensuring saving of exchequer's money for replacement of these missiles. The MWO has been instrumental in recovery of unserviceable ATEs at three premier Air bases in south western sector, including recent recovery of 21 ATE modules of GURT at a base under Western Air Command. The recovery has been at the component level in many cases. The base has been benefiting from his experience and has maintained 100% serviceability of GURT testers. The hard work of the MWO has not only benefited this base but also other MMPUs. Currently, he is the only authority in repair and recovery of GURT testers in IAF. His untiring hard work and exceptional professional competence has been appreciated by Air HQ (P DASE) and HQ SWAC (SMSO). For his distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Master Warrant Officer Jasvinder Singh Mann. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Air Cmde | Anuj Aggrawal 18015 AE(L) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 18 | Announced 26 Jan 18 | |
| Details : |  Air Commodore Anuj Aggrawal (18015) AE(L) was commissioned in the technical branch of Indian Air Force on 19 Aug 1985. The officer is presently posted in Headquarters South Western Air Command (SWAC) and working as Command Engineering Officer since 02 Mar 15. The officer, in his 32 years of illustrious career, has held important multidisciplinary appointments which include Senior Engineer (Aircraft) and Chief Engineering Officer of SU-30 bases, Director of MiG-29 Weapon Cell and Joint Director Air Staff Inspection. The multifarious experience acquired by the officer in his distinguished career has been singularly responsible for the exemplary manner in which he has handled the challenging task of Command Engineering Officer for the last two years. The aircraft serviceability in SWAC AOR has enhanced significantly during his tenure and was maximum in 2016-17 as compared to the previous five year period. The availability of the aircrafts during Air Force and Command level exercise Ex - LIVE WIRE in Oct 2015 and Ex- MAHAGUJRAT in Nov 2016 was more than 95%. The conduct of the signature event of Fire Power Display at Jaisalmer in March 2016 created a history wherein the entire exercise involving participation of a large number of aircrafts was conducted without any incident. His leadership quality and involvement ensured desired operational preparedness on armament front during contingency post URI attack. His methodical approach and efforts towards coordination, monitoring and follow up for achieving the above feat were found to be exceptional in order and highly praiseworthy. His knowledge on Russian fighters has immensely helped in resolving a rnultitude of pending problems on SU-30 MKI and Bison aircraft. The recovery of 88-115 at a premier base after prolonged AOG period of approximately six years and SK Rig at another fighter base after more than three years is testimony of his perseverance and management skills. In addition, build-up of eight long AOG Jaguar aircraft in the last one year has been undertaken under his guidance. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Air Cmde Anuj Aggrawal. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Air Cmde | Gummadi Sahed Phani Nandiswara Chowdary 18521 AE(L) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 18 | Announced 26 Jan 18 | |
| Details : |  Air Commodore Gummadi Sahed Phani Nandiswara Chowdary (18521-R) AE(L) was commissioned in the technical branch of Indian Air Force on 29 Aug 86. He has held the appointments of Chief Engineering Officer (CEO) of a Flying Training Establishment Chief of Production of a Base Repair Depot, Senior Engineer (Electronics), Instructor at Air Force Technical College and staff at Command and Air HQ. The officer has been trained abroad on an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle based weapon system and the Basic Trainer Aircraft PC-7 Mk-II. He was deeply involved in their initial induction and played a significant role in establishing Maintenance Philosophy of both the fleet. As CEO of a Flying Training Base during the era of severe resource crunch of Aero engines and safety issues in the Kiran fleet, he marshalled all the available resources with outstanding efficiency and ensured high serviceability and safe conduct of training flying operations. His other significant contributions include first ever installation of Precision Approach Path Indicator at an high Altitude Air Base, major transformation in the Landline Communication setup at an Air Base in North East Setting up the repair lines for IGLA missile system and Radar Data Processors of ST-68 (UM) radars at 7 Base Repair Depot. The officer is a post graduate in Computer Science and Gold Medallist in Electronics and Communication Engineering. He has been assessed exceptional in all the service courses undergone. As AOC, of 5 Base Repair Depot, he has ensured that all tasks pertaining to Aircraft and Testers calibration and repair are carried out within the laid down timeframes. He successfully initiated and steered a number of pro-active measures to ensure that the vintage Avro aircraft is maintained airworthy despite several obsolescence issues. One of the notable achievements was the replacement of Mechanical Gyro in Autopilot of Avro aircraft with the more reliable Fibre Optical Gyro which was also appreciated by the Prime Minister of India. Several upgrade projects were initiated by him to develop the Depot as a Centre of Excellence in the area of Aircraft Testers repair and calibration. He also ensured that the Technical Infrastructure including hangars, hangar attached bays and storage areas of the entire Depot is modernised catering to the futuristic needs. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Air Cmde Gummadi Sahed Phani Nandiswara Chowdary. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Air Cmde | Ajay Kumar Arora 18539 AE(L) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 18 | Announced 26 Jan 18 | |
| Details : |  Air Commodore Ajay Kumar Arora (18539) AE(L) was commissioned in the technical branch of Indian Air Force on 16 Aug 86. He has held the important appointments of Director Maintenance Plans (DMP) at Air HQ from 09 Jun 2009 to 08 Nov 10, CEO of a Su 30 and ALH base from 09 Nov 10 to 16 May 12, DS at the College for Defence Management (CDM) from 28 May 13 to 30 Nov 15, before taking over as AOC of 9 BRD on 01 Dec 15. Due to his dynamism, intelligence, clarity of perception and vision as DMP, he was able to suggest solutions for many diverse and intricate policy matters such as FOL discipline, entrance exam for Masters' degree, new inductions and servicing schedules, which are in vogue even today. As CEO, he undertook the challenging tasks of AOG build of four aircraft on AOG for a long time, streamlining labs for EW, Recce and In- Flight Refueling pods, Simulator for Su 30 and setting up Tech Fit with associated labs in the new hangar. He contributed immensely and selflessly in conduct of Colour Presentation held at the Station. As DS at CDM, he also took over the additional charge of DS Coordinator concurrently and contributed in formulation of long term roll on plan of CDM, comprehensive review and update of College SOPs, review of precis and introduction of various new exercises. He is highly qualified and has done exceedingly well in most of the courses. He has Masters' Degrees to his credit from HT Kharagpur, Air University Montgomery, Alabama, USA, Madras University and Osmania University respectively. As AOC, he has undertaken various challenging projects such as repair of Su 30 EW pods, critical components of radars and various other avionic systems. With his foresight, immaculate planning, vigour and zeal, he has commenced repair line for new equipment such as FAC kit, Radio sets of different radars, Radio Interface Unit and various other communication equipments. Under his incisive leadership, the innovative work done by the Depot has been acknowledged by HQ MC and Depot has been awarded best Systems' BRD for the year 2016. The Depot was also judged "Average Plus" by DMI during the same year. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Air Cmde Ajay Kumar Arora. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Air Cmde | Vangal Krishnaswamy Sashindran 18695 MED | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 18 | Announced 26 Jan 18 | |
| Details : |  Air Commodore Vangal Krishnaswamy Sashindran (18695-R) Med was commissioned in the Medical Branch in Dec 86. He is presently serving as Professor and Head of Department, geriatric Medicine at Armed Force College (AFMC) since 14 Ju12014. He contributed immensely and single handedly in setting up the new speciality. He has specialized in the field of Infectious diseases and was awarded the Fogarty International Fellowship of AIDS research in 2004. Air Commodore Sashindran has earlier served as Staff surgeon to the Chief of Air-Staff and as Senior Advisor Medicine at Air Force Central Medical Establishment where he set up the Lifestyle Diseases Research Centre. An intrepid mountaineer, he has led several expeditions in uncharted regions in the Karakorams and Arunachal Pradesh for the Air Force Adventure Cell. At AFMC, he has initiated many innovative teaching practices in Medical Education to develop compassion and a caring attitude among students. He has instituted integrated teaching across disciplines. The multi-disciplinary Infectious Diseases round is a case in point. He guides the activities of the Students' Scientific Society and is the driving force behind Undergraduate Medical Research in AFMC. His hard work has led to him winning many accolades and publications. He goes beyond the call of duty to ensure that his students excel in their field and was voted as the best teacher for six years in succession. His passion for teaching remains undiminished. He is the epitome of compassion and professionalism making him a role model for aspiring physicians and officers. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Air Cmde VangaJ Krishnaswamy Sashindran. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
The Awards Database presented here was made possible by the kind generosity of Air Marshal Bharat Kumar, author of Courage & Devotion to Duty : A Chronicle of IAF's Honours and Awards (1932-2008). Air Marshal Bharat Kumar had very graciously given permission to reproduce the citations from the book on this website.
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Note: All the data available here is publicly available in the Gazette of India, published by the Indian Government, or from public domain sources, press releases about Awards and Right-To-Information (RTI) Requests. Additionally data shared by veterans is added to the page with permission. No data with respect to serving officers below the rank of AVM is displayed. Information in Gazette of India and Award citations and photographs as released by the Indian Air Force are the only details displayed.