Group Captain Ramesh Chander commanded an Air Stores Park from August, 1981 to 12 Jan 86.

During his tenure as commanding Officer, he totally identified himself with the needs and requirements of his unit and was able to forge a very close-knit team of officers and men. Under his leadership, the unit recorded growth both in terms of well-designed and well-executed physical assets such as office and domestic accommodation and achievement of all targets set by HQ Maintenance Command in the filed of administration and logistics. So well did the unit perform that in the year 1984 it was awarded the Best Administered Unit Trophy.

The capability of this officer in handling unforeseen situations were also tested many a time during this period. In August/September, 1984, when Delhi and its surrounding areas were in the grip of communal disturbances, the ASP was called upon to assist the civil authority in Gurgaon. A large number of exservicemen living in Gurgaon area also had to be sheltered from violence. Group Captain Ramesh Chander carried out both these sensitive tasks with rare courage tack, sympathy and foresight.

In 1985, the Park was called upon to position explosives at Pune at a very short notice. The task involved meticulous planning in arranging transportation, extreme caution and quick execution. Under the leadership of this officer, the unit again rose to the occasion and completed the task within the stipulated period.

In recognition of his professional competence, ingenuity in planning, exemplary leadership and dedication to duty, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Ramesh Chander.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wing Commander Satish Kumar Ram Lal Dham has been on the posted strength of No. 8 AF Hospital since 2 May 85. Commissioned in December, 1963 he served in several flying squadrons as Squadron Medical Officer and did creditably well. He qualified as a Specialist in Medicine after acquiring his M.D. in Medicine from the university of Pune in June, 1971 and has since then been working as a specialist in medicine in the Armed Forces.

He was selected for higher studies in the newer field of clinical immunology and served in the U.K. for a period of two years from Sep 79 to Sep 80 and acquired a postgraduate degree of Masters of Science in Immunology from the University of Birmingham. He was appointed a Reader in Medicine at the Armed Forces Medical College, Pune, where he raised an immunology Cell and displayed his professional skill in teaching undergraduate and postgraduate students and undertook many projects. He was appointed an examiner for MBBS by the University of Pune. His original work includes immunological studies in typhoid, leprosy and polio vaccination. He was classified as a specialist in Clinical Immunology in Apr 85. In Dec 85, he was appointed as an external examiner in M.D. in Aviation Medicine of Bangalore University.

His devoted services and professional expertise in the electrocardiographic abnormalities in aircrew earned him a commendation by the Air Officer Commanding-in-chief, HQ Training Command during his tenure at the Institute of Aviation Medicine in Aug 75

For his devotion, professionalism, loyalty and selfless service, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Satish Kumar Ram Lal Dham.

Wing Commander Hari Nath Sharma was commissioned in December, 1964. Since then he has held various important assignments with distinction. Prior to taking over as Command Organisation and Works Officer at an Operational Command in Nov 83, he held Provost assignments at Jamnagar, Command Headquarters and Air Headquarters.

For his excellent performance as Assistant Provost Marshal and Deputy Provost Marshal he was commended by AOC-in-C in Jan 77 and by the Chief of the Air Staff in Jan 79 and Jan 80.

As Command Staff Officer Provost and Officer in-Charge Personnel-1 at a Command Headquarters from Feb 82 to Nov 83, he took preventive measures which resulted in substantial reduction of indiscipline and criminal cases. He successfully investigated a number of cases which resulted in bringing the culprits to book. He also succeeded in the finalization of a number of pending Courts of Inquiry and civil suits. On taking over as Command Works Officer in Nov 83, he applied himself to the execution of works services with promptness and economy of effort. In order to ensure smooth functioning of the works machinery, he organized works workshop at one of the stations of the Command. The conduct of the symposium resulted in creating an excellent team spirit amongst engineers, using and contractors.

With his vast knowledge of works matters, he gave impetus to the works services at Station/Units under the Command.

In recognition of his exemplary leadership, professional competence and outstanding organizational acumen, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal posthumously to Wing Commander Hari Nath Sharma.

Wing Commander Raman Kumar Bhandari has been the Chief Technical Officer of a Radar Station since 08 Oct 84.

Wing Commander Bhandari has incorporated a number of modifications by designing and fabricating critical circuits for various components of a French radar in order to enhance its operational capability. He has also effected as number of repairs of unserviceable items, thereby ensuring a high operational status of the equipment.

His major achievement was in designing and fabricating a circuit for remote display of North Pulse which enabled the crew to know immediately of any misalignment. He also designed a digital diagnostic tool using a common Anode Numeric Display which enhanced the digital fault finding capability of the radar. He also evolved a circuitry for remotely controlling the operation of Identification Friend or Foe transmission from the operations room. This modification enables remote challenging of enemy aircraft which was earlier not possible. The officer has also designed and fabricated a circuit whereby a flashing symbol and label appear on the console to designate a hijacked aircraft in a state of emergency.

His other achievements include rectification of Core Memory Module, Optical Coder and IFF MK X. A noteworthy feature of these repairs is that most of them would have cost thousands of dollars if entrusted to factories abroad.

The officer's total commitment, involvement and constant concern for improving the operational capability of the radar are out of the ordinary.

For his exceptional dedication to duty and outstanding professional competence, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Raman Kumar Bhandari.

Wing Commander Ram Prakash Sharma was a commissioned in the IAF in Jan 66. He has worked in missile squadrons of the IAF in various capacities and performed creditably in all his assignments.

He was posted to Radar Communication Project Office in Aug 75. From 1975 to 1978, he has engaged in planning and co-ordinating the system engineering aspects connected with a modern radar station which was to be installed at a location in the Western Sector. Planning for installation of a radar of this magnitude involved checking of civil engineering drawings, formulation of technical details of the various systems and coordinating the timely supply of various items of hardware from the various manufac turing agencies. Wg Cdr RP Sharma achieved all these tasks and contributed significantly to the commissioning of this radar.

Subsequently planning of the system engineering aspects of the medium power mobile radar was entrusted to this officer in 1978. The installation and integration of a variety of sub systems in the radar system entailed elaborate planning to correlate their technical parameters and coordinate the deliveries of all the sub stations by various agencies. By dint of his dedicated hard work, this officer has ensured that two of these radars are operational and evaluation of the third has been completed. Single handedly, this officer has prepared the integration document which defines the details of the task to be carried out for integrating the radar with the Data Handling and other systems.

For this high standard of professional skill initiative, devotion to duty and distinguished service throughout his career, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander RP Sharma.

Wing Commander Sarabjit Singh was appointed Commanding Officer of a sensitive squadron with effect from 30 Jun 84.

During this period, the squadron was entrusted with many hazardous special recce missions. He organized his resources well and produced excellent results which helped in reevaluation of the threat.

On the home front, he set an enviable growth rate target of 25% for the annual survey effort by the squadron. Despite sudden exodus of senior aircrew, non availability of supervisors in both Canberra and Chitra Flights and poor serviceability of aircraft, he not only met the target figure but also created an all-time record of surveying 5.7 lakh Sq Kms. The Squadron's effort earned the Air Force as revenue of Rs. 2.5 crores for the year 1984-85. The unit's contribution to strategic recce and survey brought tremendous credit to the Indian Air Force.

In his capacity as Commanding Officer, he has shown remarkable acumen for understanding the dynamics of human behaviour. He was able to motivate his officers and men to draw out their best potential. A deep camaraderie combined with respect for service traditions pervades all the ranks in the squadron and has resulted in the highest standard of operational preparedness.

For his professional competence and single minded devotion to duty, which are in keeping with the highest traditions of the Air Force, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Sarabjit Singh.

Wing Commander Satyendra Pal Singh was posted in Jul 82 to a forward airbase, after his training in Russia for maintenance of Rakshak aircraft. Since then he has been at the helm in building up the maintenance and utilization of the aircraft.

Wg Cdr SP Singh spearheaded the buildup of the infrastructure and facilities, training and expertise of the personnel by a system involving regular checks and monitoring, interaction among trades and sections. The results were remarkable and enterprise in the retrieval of a large number of communication blocks, armament relays and radar assemblies by repair and cannibalization.

The crowning moment in the officer's tenure came in Nov 85, when Rakshak squadrons were fully activated and an average of 75% of aircraft were available for flying.

In recognition of his devotion to duty, professional competence and outstanding achievements, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Satyendra Pal Singh.

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

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

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

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

Wing Commander Lalit Kumar Kochhar was commissioned on 29 Jul 67. Having served as a General Duty Medical Officer of a flying squadron as a Senior Medical Officer of operational Wings/Units for seven years, the officer specialized as an Eye Specialist from Agra University and later as an ENT Specialist from the Armed Forces Medical College, Pune and obtained the Master Degree in Surgery. He is presently serving as the Head of the ENT Department of the Air Force Central Medical Establishment.

Wing Commander Kochhar has distinguished and well proven record of two decades of dedicated service. During the IndoPak Conflict in 1971, he was posted to an operational squadron located at a forward base in the western theatre. The officer was wounded during an air raid and though in plaster, he refused hospitalization and continued to remain on duty to provided medical cover to his squadron. During his tenure as Medical Officer an Operational Wing, he made singular contribution to promote aircrew care and flight safety by personally attending to their problems at odd hours.

Wg Cdr Kochhar has served in various service hospitals and has performed large number of complicated surgical operations in an extremely efficient manner. As an ENT specialist at the Air Force Central Medical Establishment, the officer has carried out his duties with great devotion and dedication. He has consistently displayed tremendous capacity for sustained hard work of high caliber.

In recognition of his outstanding services, devotion to duty, exceptional clinical service to the patients and aircrew community and singular contribution to the cause of flight safety, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Lalit Kumar Kochhar.

Wing Commander Yadvinder Singh Walia was commissioned in the Administrative Branch in Dec 67. He has held a variety of appointments which include Station Adjutant, Station Security Officer at Flying Stations, Assistant Provost Marshal and Staff Officer.

As Assistant Provost Marshal, he ensured smooth and efficient movement of a large number of convoys. He also played a leading role in handling movement and flawless piloting of a number of foreign dignitaries and VVIPs. By excellent planning and limited resources, he reduced the number of outstanding cases of apprehensions and absence without leave. His tact, sense of involvement and mature judgment helped him establish cordial relations between the Air Force and the civil police and the local population.

At Adampur, he with his cordial relations with local civil population and the civil police, succeeded in unearthing a gang of thieves which had been operating from outside the AF Station for a very long time.

At Nagpur, again, he established a cordial working link between the Air Force and the civil authorities. He laid the net and succeeded in catching red-handed a civilian MTD who was involved in stealing petrol and diesel from service vehicles for a couple of years. He with his superior provost skill and contacts succeeded in apprehending six cases of desertion and AWOL of a serious nature.

In Mar 85, he was appointed Staff Officer to Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Training Command in recognition of his professional competence.

For his extraordinary achievements, integrity, dedication and exceptional leadership qualities, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Yadvinder Singh Walia.

Squadron Leader Thakur Singh Datta was commissioned on 28 Jun 69 and has since then held various important field and staff appointments. The officer has a distinguished record of professionalism in the field of Air Defence.

The officer achieved category 'A' as a fighter controller and was posted as an instructor in Air Defence College. During the period of four years in the college, he was actively involved in the training of a large number of fighter controllers from friendly foreign countries. With his total devotion to duty and exceptional professional skill he was instrumental in enhancing the prestige of our air Force in the eyes of foreign student officers. For his exceptional devotion, he was commended by AOC-in-C No. 1 (Opl) Group in Jun 74 and by the Chief of the Air Staff in Aug 77.

He was posted to the Air Defence Section of an operational Command in Mar 83. In October 1983, he headed a team of fighter controllers to carry out low level interception trials catering to the specific needs of fighter controllers. He was involved in a number of other evaluation trials in operational fields where his contribution was substantial and praiseworthy. In December, 1983, he prepared the Command Air Defence Compendium which was appreciated at all levels. In Jan 85, he was given the task of revising the old Command Air Staff Instruction on Air Defence Ground Environment System, which he accomplished with great personal involvement and extreme devotion.

In recognition of his exceptional devotion to duty, commendable professional competence, initiative and drive, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Squadron Leader Thakur Singh Datta.

Squadron Leader Nirdosh Vatsyayan Tyagi has been on the posted strength of Operational Conversion Unit since October, 1982. A highly qualified officer, he is a Production Test Pilot, a graduate of the Defence Services Staff College and a Cat A-2 Qualified Flying Instructor.

During his tenure in the unit, he has served for eight months as Adjutant, in addition to his normal flying instructional duties. During this period, his diligence and meticulous attention to minute detail, have resulted in an outstanding administrative performance of the unit. His efforts characterized by honesty of purpose and a helpful attitude, resulted in the unit obtaining above average reports from Air Headquarters teams in 1984 and 1985.

As Officer-in-Charge Academics, the officer has displayed patience, knowledge, understanding and diligence to motivate trainees into utmost participation and perfect learning. Under his guidance they scored an average of 81% in a standardization check carried out by the Aircrew Examining Board.

For his hard work, selfless devotion to duty and outstanding contribution to the operational efficiency to the Air Force, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Squadron Leader Nirdosh Vatsyayan Tyagi.

Squadron Leader Ashok Kumar Singh was commissioned in the IAF in Jan 74. He became a Flight Gunner in Jun 80 and was posted to an AN-12 Squadron as Gunnery Leader. In a short span of time, he achieved CAT 'A' standard and displayed great dedication to duty and loyalty to service in conducting four ab-initio Flight Gunners' Courses for which no separate establishment existed at the Station. He also conducted gunnery training and supervised several gunnery exercises in which gunners achieved very good results in firing.

While undergoing Gajraj conversion abroad along with his five SNCOs gunners, it became imperative that all the six gunners undergo training in both the independent streams of Flight Gunner and Aerial Delivery System Operations in the same allotted time.

With his characteristic devotion, zeal and enthusiasm, he put in dedicated effort in conducting extra coaching of his team of gunners in addition to his already extremely busy schedule of training. His diligence beyond the call of duty ensured timely completion of training of Flight Gunners in the dual role with exceptional results. Back in India, once again, he inspired his team of three sets of crew with personal example and leadership to accomplish the task requiring six sets of crew. At no stage a commitment was delayed due to shortage of gunners/ADSOs. In meeting commitments of heavy specialized loading/off loading for which no practical training and experience was available, he led his team with commendable competence to achieve a high degree of proficiency.

For his exceptional ability, professional competence, commendable qualities and devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Squadron Leader Ashok Kumar Singh.

Flight Lieutenant Ellykkal Vijayan was commissioned in the Meteorological Branch of the IAF on 10 Jan 77 and is presently posted at an airbase as Senior Met Officer. He was involved in installation of the first Automatic Picture Transmission (ATP) system at the base. He took keen interest to understand the functioning of the system by studying microelectronics and solid state digital technology. He was also involved in the successful commissioning of all modern Met equipments viz. Skopograph, Ceilograph, Facsimile and INSAT MONEX-79 Experiment. He attended the National Seminar on Satellite meteorology organized by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in Banglore in Jul 83 and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) symposium in Jodhpur held in Dec 84 and presented research papers.

He was selected to participate in the 4th Indian Scientific Expedition to Antarctica, 1984-85. There he was instrumental in establishing all modern Met equipments at the Dakshin Gangotri Research Station. The most significant achievements were the installation of an APT and Data Collection Platform (DPC) for hourly transmission of weather through INSAT-1B.

Apart from providing routine forecasts for airborne logistic operations, he collected invaluable weather data staying at Maitree Hill Camp, our new location in Antarctica braving inhospitable weather and difficult living conditions. He also helped establish the radar transponder beacon on the highest hill feature near the camp.

For his significant contribution to the success of the 4th Antarctica Expedition, laudable professional competence and deter mination to achieve targets, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Flight Lieutenant Ellykkal Vijayan.

Master Warrant Officer Ajit Singh was held on the posted strength of a Signals Unit.

During his short tenure of less than a year he serviced all the six channels of the Radar and displayed excellent innovative skill by modifying, with an ordinary scooter bulb, the height measuring indicator, which had been lying unserviceable due to nonavailability of projection lamps for more than a year. He thus saved the exchequer valuable foreign exchange.

He also modified certain systems, lying unserviceable for a considerable period, with indigenous items and was able to extract the best performance out of this Radar.

MWO Ajit Singh has been commended five times by the Air Officers Commanding-in Chief and once by the Chief of the Air Staff for his devotion to duty and high technical skill. His personal example, both as a teacher and a leader, has been a source of inspiration not only to his tradesmen but also the entire unit.

For the valuable services rendered by him during his long career, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Master Warrant Officer Ajit Singh.

Master Warrant Officer Omprakash Lamba had been on the posted strength of a frontline supersonic squadron since 01 Feb 84 and has been performing the duties of MWO i/c Daily Servicing Section. During his tenure, the Squadron was ordered to move from its previous to its present location. He, in coordination with the Officer-in-Charge Central Repair and Servicing Section, planned and executed staggering of aircraft hours and aircraft held on the squadron's strength. On arrival at the new base, he set himself the task of organizing the DSS so as to help the Squadron become operational within a week of its arrival.

Master Warrant Officer Omprakash Lamba, endowed with a high degree of initiative and impeccable professional knowledge, led the section in such a manner as to meet fully the demands of flying operations despite a critical manning level. During the six-month period from Aug 85 to Jan 86, when the technical manning was low, the Squadron flew record number of hours and sorties by day and night.

As a leader, Master Warrant Officer Omprakash Lamba possesses in ample measure such qualities as cheerfulness, dynamism and ability to inspire his colleagues. He shoulders responsibilities cheerfully and accomplishes tasks to the entire satisfaction of all his superiors.

For his imaginative leadership, devotion to duty and dedicated hard work, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Master Warrant Officer Omprakash Lamba.

Master Warrant Officer Madhukar Bharurao Deore has been on the posted strength of a Helicopter Squadron since January, 1984.

He is one of the pioneers of the Squadron who was trained in the USSR. He has an enviable flying experience of 4929 hours. He has contributed a great deal of efficiency of the Squadron by applying his thorough professional knowledge in formulation of checklists, standard operating procedures, snag rectification and weapon firing procedures. This enabled the Squadron to undertake performance and armament trials to the newly inducted Akbar helicopters successfully and on schedule. Due to his personal involvement and dedication to duty, newly inducted Flight Engineers have been trained and made operational in record time.

MWO Deore is a constant source of inspiration and motivation to all the personnel of the Squadron. He not only excelled in his profession on the ground an din the air, but has also proved his indispensability to the Squadron in many other ways.

For his professional competence and remarkable contribution to the newly formed Squadron and his deep devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Master Warrant Officer Madhukar Bharurao Deore.

Junior Warrant Officer Velaudhan Pillai Gopinathan Nair is on the posted strength of a fighter squadron. He has been able to rectify several cases of complex snags and has thus prevented at least six premature withdrawals of R-25 engines. This has resulted in considerable savings in foreign exchange. His professional skill is so comprehensive that he is capable of carrying out an engine change without assistance of tradesmen of other trades.

He has been equally involved in modification of ground and test equipment. For checking the engine parameter, a pressure checking device was fabricated by using only the indicators supplied by the manufacturers. The engine oil changing rig was modified by his to be used as inhibition rig. He also modified a superstructure of Type 75 aircraft for use on Type 69 aircraft.

JWO Nair has written a booklet titled 'Experience to Share of Badal Engines', copies of which have been sent to all Badal operating establishments. He has also presented technical papers on some aspect of Badal engines. One of these studies on the 'Alarming Rate of Afterburner Failures', discusses remedial actions for rectifying after-burner snags. This study was based on nine rectifications carried out by him and resulted in considerable saving of manpower and improved serviceability.

He cheerfully puts in long hours of work beyond the call of duty. His professional excellence is a source of inspiration to his fellow tradesmen and subordinates.

For his tireless efforts, dedication, zeal and professional competence, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Junior Warrant Officer Velaudhan Pillai Gopinathan Nair.

291286 Sergeant Joseph Mathew Thomeryiel was selected for the Fourth Indian Antarctica

Expedition in recognition of his professional competence and dedication to service coupled with his rich experience gained during the Third Indian Antarctica Expedition. During the Expedition, he functioned as SNCO i/c of the technical team. In the extreme climatic conditions prevailing in Antarctica, the success of the expedition depended to a large extent upon the logistic support to be provided by Pratap helicopters. This necessitated an uninterrupted availa bility of helicopter for flying operations. Sgt Mathews, besides shouldering the task of his own trade, worked with other fellow tradesmen to ensure timely availability of the helicopter. Working much beyond the normal working hours under severe climatic conditions in Antarctica, he ensured the serviceability and availability of the helicopter for all scheduled and unscheduled tasks. His contribution included refueling hundreds of barrels of fuel into containers under sub-zero conditions and at the same time maintaining quality control of fuel. This was a vital task which he carried out in a planned and meticulous manner.

On 24 Feb 85, when one Indian Naval Chetak foreclanded on an iceberg, Sgt Mathews along with his technical team prepared the Pratap helicopter for flying in a short time and made the rescue of the pilots and recovery of the Chetak possible, just before the iceberg broke into fragments.

For his extraordinary devotion to duty, willingness to accept responsibilities and exemplary leadership, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sergeant Joseph Mathew Thomeryiel.

62412 Sergeant Kanshi Nath Mandal was specially selected for the second time as the only Airframe technician in the Fourth Indian Scientific Expedition to Antarctica. His duties included removal and fitment of main rotor and tail-rotor blades, winterization and antisaline treatment of helicopter and covering of helicopters in sub zero conditions and high winds: a difficult but essential task.

Besides his routine duties, Sgt Mandal was assigned the task of repairing on Mi-8 helicopter which had force landed at the Base Camp with its nose-oleo considerably damaged. He accepted this challenging task with courage, though it involved studying maintenance manuals till late at night after completing the day's long routine. He carried out the repairs with hardly any resources available in Antarctica thus displaying initiative, professional competence and devotion to duty. He also improvised the means and carried out heavy landing checks on the helicopter in sub-zero conditions. It was by dint of his devotion to duty, professional competence and indomitable courage in the face of the most inclement weather conditions that the helicopter was recovered from Antarctica even in snow blizzards. The imitative and devotion to duty of this SNCO were once again put to test when on 21 Feb 85 a snow blizzard hit the ship suddenly. At that time one of the Mi-8 helicopters was parked in the open on the deck. Sgt Mandal led his other tradesmen to the deck, braving a heavy snow blizzard with the wind exceeding 90 KMPH, and lashed the helicopter.

For his professional competence, high sense of responsibility, unflinching courage and timely initiative, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to 62412 Sergeant Kanshi Nath Mandal.

Group Captain Kuldeep Raj Lamba was commissioned in Jun 60 and has held important appointments at various levels. After a long tenure at Air Headquarters, in Oct 84, he was posted to a frontline fighter station as a Chief Engineering Officer.

He took over his duties at a time when the Station aircraft maintenance organization was facing a variety of problems. This resulted in the monthly flying effort of the two locally based Vijay Squadrons being restricted to roughly half the desirable figure. Some of the problems were inadequately trained and experienced technical manpower, shortage of test and ground support equipment and a restricted spares supply line. These problems and others had led to a daunting backlog of 200 hrs inspections at the base Central Repair Servicing Section.

Group Captain Lamba willingly accepted the challenge and set about clearing the backlog of inspections without delay. As a result of his tireless efforts, the locally based fighter squadrons have been able to complete their assigned flying tasks from March 86 onwards without a break.

Group Captain Kuldeep Raj Lamba efforts and achievements have contributed significantly to the restoration of the fighter aircraft fleet based at the Wing to its rightful position of a premier element of the strike force under Western Air Command. In the process, he has made a commendable contribution to the enhancement to the operational preparedness of the base and of the Air Force as a whole.

For his devotion to duty, his technical excellence and his leadership of the Station technical organization, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Kuldeep Raj Lamba.

Group Captain Narayanaswamy Sundarajan was commissioned in Dec 61 and has held various field, training and staff appointments. In all these appointments, the has excelled himself. Since July 1985 the has been functioning as the Chief Administrative officer of a large training station.

The Chief Admin Officer of this station has the unenviable task of managing a population of 12000 spread over 1500 acres of land located in three different camps. Further, it is the only station where advanced flying training for flying instructors and technical training for airmen are bringing about cohesion and harmony to ensure accomplishment of tasks is indeed a very challenging one which calls for total dedication, integrity and professional competence of the highest order. This officer has executed this responsibility with admirable competence and leadership qualities and ensured an administration which had earned the appreciation of all visiting dignitaries.

During Nov 85 when Madras was hit by a severe cyclone and life in the city stopped paralysed for weeks, this officer worked round the clock to ensure that the essential services in the Air Force Station were maintained throughout.

By his unstinted and invaluable effort hard work and total dedication Group Captain N Sundarajan has set an example worthy of emulation and inspired the entire staff at the station, including the MES, to face any future challenges.

For his personal dedication and exemplary contribution to the provision of administrative activities at the Station his laudable professional competence the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Narayanaswamy Sundarajan.

Group Captain Jayaraj Henry Mandody, Logistics, was commissioned in Dec 61 and has served with distinction in a number of field and staff appointments during the past 25 years. As the Senior Logistics Officer of two major Wings, one in the Western and the other in the Eastern Theater, his excellent performance was recognized with a Com mendation by AOC-in-C, Western Air Command in 1978. The Section headed by him was awarded 'HiSat' rating twice by the Director of Air Staff Inspection inspecting teams. As the Chief Logistics Officer of Air Force Station, Avadi, he has geared the entire logistics functioning to yield optimum productivity. All receipts issues and dispatches of stores from the depot have been streamlined to eliminate delays and hold ups in the supply line. During the red alert period in early 87, he geared the entire depot supply effort to issues and dispatched 350 tons of much sought after vital clothing, Barrack and MT spares to operational units by rail, road and air.

By his exceptional devotional to service and outstanding commitment to work, he has excelled in the filed of logistics performance. By judicial planning, harnessing the resources and detailed execution, he has brought up the depot to yield most favourable results. His exemplary alacrity and accomplishment of tasks with commendable speed is a direct result of his detailed planning, timely initiative and dedication to duty.

For his exemplary sense of devotion and dedication to duty, coupled with outstanding resourcefulness, untiring enthusiasm and zeal, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Jayaraj Henry Mandody.

Group Captain Muttatu George Mathew was commissioned in April, 1963 and has held various field appointments. He was on the posted strength of Air Force Station Bidar from 24 Jan 83 to 06 Oct 86. His arrival coincided with a change in the role of the Station. Jet Training on Kiran aircraft was introduced to improve the service ability of airborne electronic equipment, navigation and communication aids. To install a newly acquired radar, he worked round the clock and was able to make it operational within four days and maintained a high degree of serviceability. He was also instrumental in the installation of DRDF/DF and arrester barrier, well ahead of the schedule to meet the jet operations.

In Sep 85, on promotion to the rank of Gp Capt, he assumed the duties of Chief Engineering Officer. This officer, through hard work keen application and ingenuity grasped the essential of his new assignment and improved the serviceability of the of the Kiran fleet. By his sustained effort, he generated sense of confidence and esprit-de-corps among his colleague and subordinates He was primarily instrumental in maintaining a high state of MT serviceability. It was because of the firm foundation laid by him that the station was able to present 100% vehicles in a serviceable condition during the Directorate of Air Staff Inspection in 1986.

Through his excellent man-management and high professional skill, he was able to elicit effective performance from his officers and men. The credit for the station being adjudged the Best Maintenance Station of the Air Force for 86-87 goes to him.

For his excellent performance, high professional skill and deep devotion to duty, the president is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Muttatu George Mathew.

Group Captain Dharam Vir Dhingra was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in Nov 62. Since then the has held various important appointments with distinction and has acquitted himself in an exemplary manner. Since Sep 86, he has been serving as Chief Administrative officer at Air Force Station Palam.

This Station is responsible to provide administrative services to 21 Units and making arrangements for reception and departure of VVIPs including foreign dignitaries. With limited manpower resources available, he has handled multifarious administrative responsibilities in an exemplary manner to the satisfaction of all the units.

As C AD O, Gp Capt Dhingra is solely responsible for planning and implementation of various works services at this Station.

During the 'Alert' in the country in Jan 87 Gp Capt Dhingra set up 'Air Force Transit Camp' at this Station. Almost 2000 officers and airmen transited through this Station during this period. He had to work regularly, beyond the normal hours to achieve the tasks assigned to this Station during this period.

Besides, the officer has dedicated himself to improving the quality of life of the station personnel. Considerable improvement has been planned and brought about in SNCO and Airmen Messes. The living and working environment at this station has improved considerably. The sustained efforts being made by the officer have substantially contributed to raising the morale of the personnel.

For his qualitative performance, result oriented initiative, high professional competence, and excellent organizing capability, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Dharam Vir Dhingra.

Group Captain Hemant Vishnu Khatu was commissioned in the Indian Air Force on 28 Oct 63. He has 2,663 hours of flying to his credit. During his 24 years of service he has held various prestigious and important appointments.

As a member of the directing staff at the prestigious Tactics and Combat Development Establishment Group Captain Hemant Vishnu Khatu efforts were largely responsible for the creation of the publication Fighter Forum - a fighter tactics magazine on the lines of the USAF's Fighter Weapon Review.

Group Captain Hemant Vishnu Khatu commanded a fighter squadron for a little over two years. During his tenure he was responsible for the introduction of numerous innovations many of which have since become standard concepts. The Squadron also became the first to operate supersonic aircraft from one of the world's highest airfields.

After an outstanding tenure as a squadron Commander, Group Captain Khatu was inducted into an operational command as the Ops 1A - a coveted and prestigious appointment. In this capacity, he brought all his flying experience and innovative thinking to bear on the planning of operational activities of the combat forces. It was at his initiative that high altitude live firing by supersonic aircraft was introduced in the Command.

In all the assignments entrusted to him, Group Captain Hemant Vishnu Khatu has demonstrated a high degree of professionalism, leadership of a high order and exemplary devotion to duty.

For exceptional competence in his profession, innovative thinking and devotion to duty, the president is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain Hemant Vishnu Khatu.

Wing Commander Shailendra Shankar Saxena was commissioned in the Indian Air Force on 21 Jan 63. Since then, he has been employed on air defence as well as administrative assignments. With his exceptional professional knowledge capabilities earnedhim category 'A' in 1974.

As Commander Officer of an Air Force Liaison Unit, Wing Commander Saxena has contributed immensely to result oriented investigating reporting. With his sound operational background, he has been able to cover a large number of new areas in the field of counter intelligence. Under his leadership, the staff members of the AFLU have shown a sense of pride in the job with almost dedication.

In spite of the fact the normal counter intelligence work of his until suddenly increased manifold due to the prevailing political situation in the country, Wing Commander SS Saxena could obtain timely and excellent intelligence through his own example of untiring efforts and total devotion to duty and that enabled Air Headquarters to take suitable preventive measures well in time.

For his outstanding ability, devotion to duty, initiative, extreme loyalty to service, unflinching integrity and professional competence of a very high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander SS Saxena.

Wing Commander Amarjit Singh was commissioned on 24 Jun 64 in ADM Branch and underwent ATCO's course in Oct 64. He has served as Senior Air Traffic Control Officer at a number of operational bases.

An accord to end ethic strife in Sri Lanka was arrived at between Government of Sri Lanka and India on 29 July 87. In pursuance of this accord, there was an immediate requirement of airlifting Indian Peace keeping forces in Sri Lanka. Wing Commander Amarjit Singh was detailed as leader of the IAF team which was airlifted at a very short notice on the night of 29 Jul 87 for deployment at an operational location in Sri Lanka. The task assigned to this team was to set up communication links, provide air traffic control and turn-around facilities to a large number of transport aircraft which were following this team. Wing Commander Amarjit Singh achieved his task within minutes of his arrival by motivating his team with his dedication, personal example and inspiring leadership. The dedicated work put in this team was largely instrumental in successful launching of 55 operational sorties on the first day itself, thereby making a success of an internationally important task assigned to the IAF.

On 01 Aug 87 the runway was blocked by a Chitra aircraft which landed with a nosewheel collapse. Undeterred by the lack of proper equipment and inadequate facilities, Wing Commander Amarjit Singh mobilized all the available resources and ensured that the runway was cleared in the shortest time. But for this prompt and quick reaction displayed by him, the air operations would have been seriously jeopardized.

For the high professional skill, exemplary dedication, courage and qualities of leadership displayed while accomplishing an internationally important mission, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Amarjit Singh.

Wing Commander Vijay Achyut Patkar, commissioned in Jul 66, has held important assignments. He has excelled himself in academics and has done Ph.D. in Computer science from France. He has been responsible for setting up the MCF for Gajraj aircraft and for establishing second line bay servicing facilities for sophisticated electronic equipment Installed on Gajraj aircraft.

Gajraj aircraft were inducted in May 85. At that time only a handful of aircrew and ground crew technicians trained in the USSR were available to man the squadron. There was a pressing need for setting up the MCF urgently so that more aircrew and ground crew could be trained. This officer, with great zeal and enthusiasm, took up the challenging task of setting up the MCF for Gajraj within two months against heavy odds caused by paucity of space and other resources.

Wing Commander Patkar has also been instrumental in establishing sophisticated electronics laboratories, Including, a laboratory for the aircraft's computerized navigation and radar system. This officer designed the laboratory and supervised its construction as per the specification. The establishment of this laboratory has facilitated servicing of the sophisticated electronics equipment locally.

For this hard work, professional skill, exceptional ability to guide people in the technical field and the contribution he has made towards planning and establishing the MCF and the Electronics laboratories for Gajraj and Sutluj aircraft, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing commander Vijay Achyut Patkar.

Wing Commander Iqbal Singh was commissioned in the Indian Air Force on 06 Jul 64. After his initial training he served as Radar Officer in two missile combat squadrons.

In recognition of his exceptional performance in the guided weapons stream, he was specially selected and posted to Radar System Installation Unit on its formation in 1973 for installation of a radar under the Air Defence Ground Environment System Plan. While all officers posted to the Radar System installation Unit, on its formation have been specially trained for the task, in France and Italy, Wing Commander Iqbal Singh was the only exception. Because of his skill, caliber and competence, he was considered suitable for the task even without formal training. During this tenure he participated in the installation of radars at three locations. While serving as Senior Radar Systems Officer in one of the important Air Defence Radar Units of the country in the Western Sector he designed an electronic Coder using indigenous spares (worth Rs. 2000/-) as possible replacements for imported optical encoder costing over Rs. 2-3 lakhs each and saved valuable foreign exchange.

In Apr 86 he was posted to RCPO as a Project Engineer (Radar Systems). His duties included induction, planning procurement, monitoring, field installations and commissioning of radar and associated systems. Two high power static Radars were commissioned and availability of these two radars has enhanced the air deference capability of the Air Force. Wing Commander Iqbal Singh made a very significant contribution to the success of these tasks.

For his high degree of professional skill, leadership, devotion to the service, initiative, hard work and sincerity distinguished service of a very high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht

Seva Medal to Wing Commander Iqbal Singh.

Wing Commander Homi Faramoroz Buhariwala was commissioned in July 1965. He was on the posted strength of a Wing from 25 Mar 85 to 24 Nov 86. When he was posted the infrastructure for electronic equipment repair of Jaguar aircraft was not at all established. With the equipment of fighter squadron with Darin-fit Jaguar aircraft, it became mandatory to set up these facilities on priority. Wing Commander Buhariwala with his electronic background and experience, set up the facilities of Darin equipment repair in an expropriated building. He had not only to put in long hours of hard work but excelled himself professionally also in setting up these facilities at this base which where not available anywhere in the Air Force.

Another challenge cheerfully accepted by him was in the beginning of 1987 when the new building for Electronic Engineering Complex was handed over. Here again this officer managed to move all the expensive test equipment from the old building to the new building in a record time of three weeks. The EEC set up at this base is one of the most modern in the IAF. This complex has been highly appreciated by everyone including the AOC-in-C Headquarters Central Air Command.

In another sphere of Aircraft Quality Control also this Officer worked hard with his team. He carried out detailed studies of specific areas of maintenance and produced excelled material for implementation. These studies include original ideas on maintenance activities conduction to safe flying.

For his dedication to duty professional approach, dependability and distinguished service, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Homi Faramroz Buhariwala.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wing Commander Purshotam Singh Mahngar was commissioned in January 1967 as has held various appointment in the field as well as in hospitals. He has been posted to 5 AF Hospital wef 18 Jun 84.

He is a classified specialist (General Surgery) and the senior most surgeon of the hospital. Sincere and devoted to the core, the officer has endeared himself to his patients and established an enviable reputation as a professional. He has come out one very occasion with flying colours and to the great satisfaction of the patients and their relations.

The hospital provides medical cover to troops stationed in Nagaland, Mizoram and Manipur as also to a large number of local personnel. During his tenure at the hospital, he was called upon to manage twenty cases of gun shot wounds who were brought after sustaining injuries in combat. All the cases were brought in a critical condition and many of them had multiple injuries of internal organs like liver, spleen, kidney, intestine, blood vessels etc. One patient had sustained as many as six outlet injuries. He worked tirelessly and continuously spending three to six hours in operation theater to pull the patient out of danger. He undertook his job with great determination, challenge and outstanding devotion. He could successfully mange all of them and made them fit to resume their duties.

For his outstanding professional competence, diligence and commendable devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Purshotam Singh Mahngar.

Wing Commander Durba Venkateshwarlu was commissioned in October 1967. In April, 1986, he was posted to Defence Research Development Organisation on a special assignment. The task involved technical appreciation of combat aircraft systems. The task involved technical appreciation of combat aircraft systems and of the technology options to be exercised. A very high level of dedication and determination was needed to ensure that all necessary inputs were generated with laid down time frame to aid decision making, development activity and provision of operational capabilities. This also meant that the officer had to adapt himself in a very short time to the Defence Research Development environment and interact efficiently and smoothly with the scientist.

On successful Completion of the Phase I of the project, namely identification technical requirements preparation of an action plan for Development/integration, Wing Commander Durba Venkateshwaralu was transferred to the Advanced Systems Integration & Evaluation Organization (ASIEO) at Bangalore and charged with the responsibility of executing the project within a short time frame. During this phase concentrated effort towards system development and aircraft integration as well as intensive field evaluation of the system were required.

Wing Commander Venkateswaralu became the crucial contributor to the project, carried out all tasks assigned to him with exemplary technical skills and devotion to duty.

For his outstanding performance in this project, commendable scientific abilities, qualities of leadership and the ability to innovate and achieve results, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Durba Venkateswaralu.

Wing Commander Niraj Rampal was com missioned in Army Dental Corps on 25 Nov 68 and seconded to the Indian Air Force. In Jun 74, he was selected for undergoing specialist training leading to MOS from Bombay University. He successfully completed his course and specialized in Prosthodontics. At present he is working as a classified specialist in Prosthodonist in 1 Air Force Dental Centre, Palam.

As a dedicated dental surgeon Wing Commander Rampal has presented several papers at National level and earned recognition of an exceptional order in his Specialty. In recognition of his achievements in the field, he has been selected as an examiner at the postgraduate level.

Wing Commander Niraj Rampal is keenly interested in research projects. He has successfully completed a research project on Acrylic Implants sponsored by the Armed Force Medial Research Committee during 1980-82. The report on the research project has been sent to all Dental Centres in the Armed Forces. He has also been associated with the Air Force Central Dental Establishment, Bangalore for the manufacture of "Indigenous Investment Material."

At present, Wing Commander Rampal has in hand another research project to evaluate the efficacy of the Mary Land Bridge Technique as restoration for missing teeth. It is a three years project and it will simplify the complicated method of bridge fabrication in prosthodontics.

For his exceptional initiative, outstanding professional competence combined with extensive research work and distinguished service in the field of dental care, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Niraj Rampal.

Squadron Leader Poockoty Govindan was commissioned on 18 Dec 71 and posted to Air Force Station, Gwalior as Station Adjutant. In Apr 78, he was appointed as Secretary, Air Force Sports Control Board at Air Headquarters. During his tenure as Secretary, Air Force Sports Control Board from 1976 to 1984, the Air Force teams performed extremely well and won nearly 8 Championships out of the 17 disciplines in which Inter-Services Championships were held. At the national level, Squadron Leader Govindan is presently the treasure of Indian Hockey Federation, Vice President of Indian Volleyball and Amateur Handball Federations of India. In 1982, he was appointed as the Competition Director for the Handball event in the IX Asian Games held at Delhi. He was also the Manger of the Indian Handball Team of its tour to East Germany in 1982, the Indian Hockey Team for the Four Nations Tournament at Dubai and Kuwait in 1986, Goodwill Games 1986 in the USSR and the Chief de Mission of the Indian contingent for the Champions Trophy at Karachi in 1986. He was a member of the jury in the X Asian Games 1986 at Seoul and VI World Cup 1986 at London.

In July 84 he was posted as the Joint Secretary, Services Sports Control Board. As Joint Secretary, SSCB, his dedication in the conduct, selection and training of service sportsmen in diverse sports disciplines for participation in the National Championships has been amply rewarded. Results shows that 53.3% of the total medals won by India in the X Asian Games at Seoul were by the Services sportsmen.

For his distinguished service in the field of sports in the three services over twenty years, constant dedication and tireless efforts to achieve positive results, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Squadron Leader Poockety Govindan.

Commissioned on 30 Dec 72, Squadron Leader Abnash Chander Sharma got himself completely involved in the process of learning developing in the service. After an extensive experience of fighter flying at No. 32 wing (1973-75) and transport flying at NACC, he performed forecasting as well as instruction duties at Flying Instructors' School, Tambaram. In recognition of his outstanding professional acumen, Squadron Leader Abnash was selected as special forecasting officer to accompany the IAF contingent during 5th Antarctic Expedition (1985-86). Before leaving for Antarctica, the officer and prepared himself thoroughly by going through all the available literature about Antarctic weather and also on the spot observation made by the IAF Met Officers during 3rd and 4th expedition. He successfully completed training imparted by the Metrological Department for handling, and installation of sophisticated and modern equipment. For a before understanding of the Antarctic weather and climate he collected a possible data from Dakshin Gangotri, Sohirmachar and neighboring camps of other countries. He carried out round clock observation for eleven days at Sohirmachar (Maitree) Hill against heavy odds. Despite long spells of bad weather and hostile terrain, he ensured record flying by the Air Force crew by rendering timely advice. He also flew total of 20 hours as a crew, even during marginal weather, for weather recce and terrain familiarisation. He also participated in scientific activity for establishing a Data Collection Platform (DCP) and a Met tower.

For his deep sense of dedication, devotion to duty and successfully meeting the challenge of observation and forecasting in Antarctica, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Squadron Leader Abnash Chander Sharma.

Master Warrant Officer Sucha Singh Ghotra was enrolled in Sep 53. He is working as Mechanical Transport Officer at a Wing since his posting on 28 Dec 81.

MWO SS Ghotra, during his tenure, has completely overhauled and revitalized the MT Support System and brought about peak efficiency. He has introduced new techniques of maintenance management by establishing a single Daily Inspection Point, enforcing supervisory checks, conducting regular KPL checks and periodical servicing of MT vehicles. Due to his dedicated efforts, reliability of the vehicles has improved and a high degree of serviceability has been maintained. This was achieved by him single handedly and without guidance from his superiors.

He has efficiently handled large deployment of MT vehicles for out station operational commitment like squadron detachments etc. During the recent operational exercise, there was a requirement of a large number of vehicles for dispersal of aircraft equipment, ground defence of the airfield and deployment of squadron detachments away from the base. He geared up the available resources to bring the serviceability of MT fleet to 99% and maintained it during the exercise.

He worked long and ardours hours every day with total disregard to his personal comforts and the needs of his family. Despite all these pressures, he established an excellent report and understanding with his subordinates and most appropriate conduct with his superiors.

For his selfless, devotion to duty and distinguished service of a high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to MWO Sucha Singh Ghotra.

Master Warrant Officer Natesan Thiranavuk Arasu has been on the posted strength of a front-line fighter squadron since 01 Dec 83. Earlier he was posted to another premier fighter squadron. Thus, he has been associated with the Vijay Fleet right from its inception in the Indian Air Force. During this period MWO Arasu has proved himself not only to be an excellent technician, but also a manager of a very high caliber.

As a technician, he proved himself to be knowledgeable, resourceful and ingenious, in that, he was instrumental in formulating current technical practices for ground handling Vijay aircraft and evolving procedures, in the form of an engine starting circuit, for preserving Vijay aeroengines that are not fitted on the aircraft.

As a manager, his outstanding devotion to duty, creditable and tactful handling of subordinates, whole-hearted professionalism and exceptional supervisory acumen have led to all round improvement in the operational preparedness of the Squadron.

For his zeal, untiring efforts, effective managerial skill, thorough professional knowledge and devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to MWO 222170 Natesan Thiranavuk Arasu, Electrical Fitter.

Junior Warrant Officer Tarlok Singh was enrolled into the Indian Air Force in Jan 64. He is on the posted strength of a Squadron ever since its equipment with the MiG-23 BN.

In the early stages of induction of the MiG23 BN, the squadron was faced with many teething problems and shortage of critical equipment. With the flying effort mounting the shortage of equipment was holding up inspections and consequently the operational utilization of the MiG-23 BN. JWO T Singh, in addition to his routine trade duties, took the initiative and manufactured important equipment utilizing the local resources. The commendable initative helped the unit to achieve the operational status in a short time.

Once again when weapons were to be used on MiG-23 BN for the first time, JWO T Singh played a valuable role. He worked out practical solutions for adaption of new weapons for the MiG-23 BN.

For his sustained hard work, devotion to duty, exceptional intelligence, initiative, sincerity and loyalty to his superiors in the best traditions of the Air Force, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Junior Warrant Officer Tarlok Singh.

Junior Warrant Officer Radhakrishnan Nair was enrolled in the Indian Air Force in Jul 66. He has been working in the office of SMSO of HQ SAC since 01 Oct 84. He has been associated with setting up of Maintenance Branch offices since its formation of the Command in July 1984. The contribution of the JWO in establishing the various sections of the Maintenance Branch during the initial stages is significant. His dedication to duty is exemplary.

JWO Radhakrishnan Nair was attached to a Wing in Jan 87 under the augmentation plan. He was detailed to work in the CR&SS of Vijay aircraft keeping in view his past experience and training in this type of aircraft. JWO Radhakrishnan Nair acquainted himself thoroughly with the task in hand in the electrical section without loss of time. He applied his professional skill and determined efforts to improve serviceability of aircraft. His simultaneously trained the tradesmen in the electrical section on fault diagnosis and rectification.

For his exceptional professional knowledge, devotion to duty and significant contribution towards setting up of Headquarters Southern Air Command Engineering Sections from scratch, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to JWO Radhakrishnan Nair.

Group Captain Sudershan Kumar Nijhawan (6223) Aeronautical Engineering (Mechanical) has been on the posted strength of a transport wing and is working as Chief Engineering Officer since 01 Apr 87. Within 17 days of his taking over as Chief Engineering Officer, there was a serious belly landing accident of AN-32 aircraft on one of the Advanced Landing Grounds and the runway was blocked. Group Captain Nijhawan collected his men, materials and landed at the Advance Landing Ground. Without and loss of time, he started the operation and by working round the clock, against adverse weather conditions, could remove the aircraft and cleared the runway for flying within the shortest possible time.

On 13 Feb 88 there was another serious landing accident at another Landing Ground in which nose section, including nose undercarriage of an aircraft was extremely damaged. Gp Capt Nijhawan developed and manufactured special trusses in the Station Workshop for supporting track jack so that the aircraft could be removed to another safe location to clear the runway for normal operations of Sutluj aircraft.

For his dedication to duty and professional skill and hard work, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Gp Capt Sudarshan Kumar Nijhawan.

Group Captain Ramesh Singh Sehgal (6792) F (N) was commissioned in Nov 1962. Since then he has held various flying assignments and has 4771 hrs of flying experience of his credit.

In May 1986, as the Star Sapphire radar at his unit had become obsolete, a new radar was allotted as replacement for this urgent operational requirement. However, Radar Communication Project Office, the erection agency, felt that in view of the mountainous road, the trailer mounted radar shelters and other heavy equipment could not be moved to the unit. Since the operational requirement was most urgent, Gp Capt Sehgal, judging this situation correctly, took upon himself the task of transportation of the radar from the valley to hills and installing it on top of tower.

Group Captain Sehgal surveyed the entire length of the road and in close cooperation and coordination with the civil engineers moved all the trailers to the radar site on schedule. Thus, a project which would have taken approximately two years and cost the exchequer millions of rupees was ready in 3½ months with no cost to the state.

For his exemplary leadership, resourcefulness, innovation and uncasing efforts, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Gp Capt Sehgal.

Group Captain Avinash Chander Chopra, VM (7604) Flying (Pilot) has been posted as Air-II at Headquarters Southern Air Command for the last three years.

As Air-II, Gp Capt AC Chopra is responsible for planning coordinating and executing of transport and helicopter operations in the geographical jurisdiction of HQ SAC.

Sometimes in May 87 it became apparent that large scale transport/helicopter operations will be required in Sri Lanka. The officer was entrusted with this task and he worked diligently to achieve the requisite infrastructure to support such large scale envisaged operations. Facilities were crated at Thanjavur and Trichurapally. These two locations were such where no Air Force elements existed. His efforts enabled the initial induction and operations of large scale helicopter and transport operations in a very satisfactory manner.

He maintained close liaison with maintenance personnel to ensure that all the twenty five helicopters placed at the disposal of HQ SAC are serviced promptly to ensure

availability of maximum number of helicopters at all times.

For unflinching devotion to duty, meticulous planning continuous prolonged involvement the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Gp Capt A C Chopra VM.

Group Captain Surinder Singh Chauhan (7853) AE (M) has been functioning as the Chief Engineering Officer of an operational wing since 20 Nov 86. This wing is the base for two Vajra Squadrons, one Chitra Sqn and a Chetak Flight.

Gp Capt Chauhan took over charge which the Vajra force was in the process of consolidation. To ensure that the force was able to carry out its frequently operational and training commitments outside its home command, it was essential that the second line maintenance back up at base for the airframe, engine and other components was geared up for immediate response for the needs of the detachments. He played a key roll in improving the serviceability of Vajra & Chetak aircraft based at his base. In addition, he has carried out modification roll on all Vajra aircraft and its engine in a most professional manner.

Gp Capt Chauhan has been a dynamic Chief Engineering Officer who has, through deep involvement, correct direction and excellent man management, established an exceptional standard of maintenance at the wing.

For his exceptional devotion to duty, outstanding dynamism and professional competence of the highest order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Gp Capt Surinder Singh Chauhan.

Wing Commander Kuldip Singh Bhatty (8206) Flying (Pilot) has been on the posted strength of a Pechora Squadron since 09 Feb 87 and has been Commanding Officer of the Squadron since then.

The Squadron was declared Non-Operational by Director of Air Staff Inspection in Oct 86 with adverse comments on all aspects of its functioning. Wg Cdr KS Bhatty was in an unenviable position of taking over such a non-operational Squadron, that too during Red Alert. Wg Cdr KS Bhatty, having taken over the Squadron, brought it operationally to a level befitting the prevailing Alert Situation in a very short time.

With his exceptional level of professional knowledge, high stamina, zeal and enthusiasm, Wg Cdr KS Bhatty regardless of his personal problems and interests, concen trated on the Squadron operation preparedness from all angles and inspired all officers and men placed under highly successful live firing by the Squadron Combat Team in 1987. Further, under his guidance and supervision the serviceability state of squadron specialist vehicles and Common User Vehicles improved to their highest, having been graded as 'Exceptional' and 'Very Good' respectively by Command Inspection Teams.

For his sincerity, dedication to service, exemplary performance and good administrative skills, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Kuldip Singh Bhatty.

Wing Commander Arokiasami Balamohan (8533) Administrative/Air Traffic Controller has been on the posted strength of a Ground Control Approach Squadron since Apr 85.

As an Air Traffic Inspector of Directorate of Air Staff Inspection, and Air Force examiner between May 1980 and May 1984, he was responsible for setting new objective standards for testing and inspection, and in establishing procedures and practices which were instrumental in enhancing the operational efficiency of IAF bases. Through months of tireless hard work beyond the normal call of duty he single handedly completed the new Manual of Air Traffic Services.

As Commanding Officer of the unit he provided his immense organizational capabilities and dedication, in getting the radar system operational in a record time of 15 days after he moved the Squadron to a new Wing location. Subsequently, under severe constraints of shortage of spares and makes shift working conditions, he has been able to organize and motivate the personnel under him to achieve almost 100 percent availability of radar for flying.

For his outstanding achievements, professional competence of a very high order, leadership and exceptional devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Arokiasami Balamohan.

Wing Commander Satya Pal Daulay was commissioned in the Air Force on 27 Jun 64. He has been on the posted strength of operational as Wing as Senior Meteorological Officer Since Oct 83.

Wg Cdr Daulay has always excelled in his professional field right from the beginning of his career. In the Professional courses for Junior and Senior Forecasters the obtained A-2 level grading.

With his excellent knowledge he has evolved new procedures and skills in weather forecasting and prognosis of weather systems which has enhanced accuracy of weather predictions manifold. He has also written a paper of the subject which was published in 'VATAVARAN' the Air Force meteorological magazine. Throughout his tenure his timely and accurate weather warnings have time and again prevented diversion of aircraft and prevented any incident due to weather and has thus contributed substantially towards flight safety.

In recognition of his exceptional achievements, professional competence, dedication and devotion to duty of a high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wing Commander Satya Pal Daulay.