Wg Cdr Madhav Saxena is on the posted strength of HQ Maintenance Command since 04 Mar 91 and has since been working as Staff Officer to AOC-in-C. In addition, he has also been looking after the Indigenisation Cell and computer set-up created in the Secretariat.

In the year 1990-91, supplies from the Soviet Union dropped to negligible levels, causing severe spares shortages at production units. AOC-in-C, Maintenance Command directed that a well planned indigenisation effort be made. He entrusted the responsibility of this critical project to Wg Cdr Saxena. The officer showed vision beyond his years in service. He identified core areas and also monitored and directed the progress towards vendor development, liaison with PSUs and close interaction with training-cum-technological research institutes. The remarkable foresight shown by Wg Cdr Saxena bore fruits within an unexpectedly short time span. Improvements in the availability of ASVs to operational units is a shining example. His efforts are specially praise-worthy as he could finally prove his contention that indigenised items will be more cost effective.

Wg Cdr Saxena devised an information system by which material planning, production progress and capacity utilisation can be monitored on day-to-day basis at step levels and also helped in efficient utilisation of scarce resources.

For his dedication to service, mature outlook and foresight, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wg Cdr Madhav Saxena.

Wg Cdr Joseph Guy Fernandez is held on the posted strength of a school wef 27 Jun 88. He was entrusted with the complex task of setting up the training infrastructure at the school which involved conceptualisation, design and fabrication of training aids and setting up servicing facilities for imparting theoretical and practical training. With his professional competence of a high order and dedication, he accomplished the task. Each of his projects stand out as novel feats of engineering, brilliantly conceived and expertly executed.

With his innovative skill, he was able to make working models of various helicopter systems out of 'Cat E' helicopters which could be used as valuable training aids at this school. He has also designed an excellent Avionics and Instrumentation laboratory which is perhaps the best of its kind in Air Force today. The most significant achievement of this officer is conceptualisation and development of Helicopter System Maintenance Simulator (A computer aided training aid with animation facilities) with the help of a Govt agency at a fraction of the cost of a similar system imported for Mirage aircraft. The establishment of this sophisticated training aid has improved the quality of training without which the trainees could not have seen the functioning of the major helicopter system and clear their basic doubts.

For his distinguished services, professional competence of a very high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wg Cdr Joseph Guy Fernandez.

Wg Cdr Shankar Mani is on the posted strength of Air Force Station, Bidar as Chief Flying Instructor on Kiran MK II ac since 17 Sep 90. As a Senior Flying Supervisor, he very closely monitored the performance of his trainees and QFIs to ensure meaningful and productive training without compromise of training standards or Flight Safety. The deep sense of professional pride instilled in the aviators and his exacting standards have resulted in Air Force Station, Bidar winning the Training Command Flight Safety Trophy and also the IAF Flight Safety Trophy for subsonic group for the year 1990-91.

Wg Cdr Mani, despite his senior supervisory duties, took active interest in flying and has flown over 630 hrs. In addition, he undertook the task of conducting trial firing at the newly selected air to ground range site. He with his enthusiasm, professional acumen and excellent management, ensured timely execution of ab-initio training firing. Further, with his vast experience of over five years as an erstwhile member of the Thunder Bolts, he has rendered invaluable guidance and assistance to the newly formed Aerobatic Team on Kiran MK II ac at Bidar.

For his professional competence of a very high order, excellence in management and inspiring leadership, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wg Cdr Shankar Mani.

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

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

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

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

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

Sqn Ldr Azeez Javeed has been on the strength of TACDE, Air Force wef 06 May 91.

During his tenure at TACDE, Sqn Ldr A Javeed has worked as the officer-in-charge of training of Master Fighter Controller (MFC). He was tasked to formalise the latest intercept techniques and briefing guides for operational control of intercept ac. This involved extensive discussions, deliberations and compilation. He carried out this task in record time with the highest degree of dedication and professional skill and the relevant information has now been ratified by Air Headquarters in the from of IAP 3448.

The task of dissemination of the information to the operators in the field was planned by conducting orientation capsules in the field for junior controllers and at TACDE for senior controllers. He lead a team of MFC staff and visited all major SUs and WAC, CAC and SWAC, IAF between 24 Feb 92 to 11 Mar 92. In addition, two capsules were conducted at TACDE, AF. This task was exceptionally well planned and executed with the highest degree of zeal and enthusiasm. His deep sense of involvement has directly contributed to the overall improvement of the operational potential of the IAF.

For his professionalism of a very high order, devotion to duty and distinguished services of a very high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr Azzez Javeed.

Sqn Ldr Ajay Gautam was on the posted strength of AEB as an examiner before proceeding to Antarctica along with XI Antarctica Expedition.

Sqn Ldr A Gautam, besides looking after the job of Flt Engr, he was actively involved in rendering full assistance to the technical crew in day-to-day flying operations. Since he had represented Air Force in IX Antarctica expedition successfully, his assessment of situations in the air and on the ground were of tremendous help. His knowledge of Nav and allied systems being exceptional, he rendered full cooperation and support to other organisations participating in the expedition. Despite so many additional responsibilities, he flew a total of 99:35 hrs during the expedition.

On 01 Feb 92, the stablised engine of Mi-8 helicopter was not getting switched off as the HP link rod came out of spline shaft. Sqn Ldr Gautam, Flt Engr on board, switched off the engine with the help of LP Cock by timely ON/OFF operations, without allowing the HP Pump to run dry, showing apex of his professional capabilities and saving the fuel pump. The helicopter flew eight more sorties same day after rectification.

For his dedication, professionalism and devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr Ajay Gautam.

Sqn Ldr Jagdish Chandra has been in the Directorate of Eng J&M as AD Eng J&M (T) (Mirage-2000) Avionics since Aug 90.

During Dec 90, one Mirage-2000 had a serious incident of multiple degree failures on its Fly By Wire system. Sqn Ldr Chandra carried out an indepth analysis of the incident and clearly brought out need to carry out certain refinements in the system. The manufacturers agreed to undertake modifications at no cost to IAF. As a result, besides higher reliability and improved flight safety, a sum of appx Rs. 1.0 crore was saved.

Sqn Ldr Chandra in a professional manner explored the feasibility of indigenous overhaul of emergency oxygen components of Mirage aircraft which were hitherto sent abroad for repair/overhaul with long lead time.

He was also actively associated with the task of setting up of indigenous PCB repair facilities for avionics systems. He took this challenging task, which is a totally new area for IAF with utmost zeal. With the active progression of PCR repair facility at HAL (Korwa), seven types of Mirage PCBs can now be repaired indigenously. The indigenisation resulted in huge savings to the Air Force.

For his professionalism, devotion to duty, hard work and innovative approach, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr Jagdish Chandra.

Sqn Ldr Biswas Bihari Misra has been on the posted strength of ASTE, Air Force with effect from May 1989.

During his stay at ASTE, Sqn Ldr Misra has been actively involved in the retrieval and rehabilitation of a very sophisticated piece of computerised equipment called Electro-Optical Tracking and Computing system (EOTAC). This vital equipment is required for trajectory analysis of aircraft and weapons. Restoring the EOTAC to a usable state was a multi-disciplinary task and lack of manufacturer's support had made it more difficult. He undertook the task with perseverance and determination and found indigenous alternatives to rectify the snags.

Sqn Ldr Misra, by his hard work and dedication, far beyond the call of his normal duties, in an intricate technical field far removed from his normal duties of flying, has managed to make the EOTAC equipment serviceable. He has thus, saved several crores of rupees in foreign exchange.

For his devotion to duty, thorough technical knowledge, intelligent application, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr Biswas Bihari Misra.

Sqn Ldr Rajya Vardhan Ghosh has been on the posted strength of Air HQ since 26 Jan 89 and has been functioning as Assistant Director Co-ordination in procurement, provisioning and monitoring of certain critical areas.

With the collapse of erstwhile USSR, many hindrances had been faced by the IAF in obtaining timely supply of spares. One of the problems was outstanding payments against LPO invoices. Russians had been insisting that unless outstanding invoices were cleared, no further supply will be made to IAF. Sqn Ldr Ghosh with his logistics acumen geared up the entire function and identified problem areas, such as delayed Govt. sanctions or lacunae due to new payment/procurement procedures. He had analysed and prepared a very detailed brief for the defence delegation which visited Moscow during Jun 92. With all the difficulties identified and solution made, majority of the disputed payment problems were resolved and supply of spares for MiG23 and MiG-29 resumed.

In yet another case, with his critical analysis, Sqn Ldr Ghosh highlighted a very crucial aspect pertaining to long outstanding recoveries from Russians on account of HAL avionics fitted on AN-32 aircraft. The Russians had agreed in principle, a reduction of Rs. 50 crores due to overcharging.

For his distinguished services of very exceptional order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr Rajya Vardhan Ghosh.

Sqn Ldr Pradeep Kumar Chopra is on the posted strength of MiG Operational Flying Training Unit, Air Force with effect from 16 Apr 90. He is working in Tech Flight of a Wing since the time of his arrival.

During the current year, Sqn Ldr Chopra worked as O i/c Tech Flight supporting MOFTU and a Squadron engaged in MOF training. With his professional expertise and personal example of hard work amounting to almost 10-11 hrs every day, he provided the leadership and motivation to his men to meet the challenge of time-bound task.

During the year, Tech Flight produced 179 ac including an ac which flew after nearly 5 yrs & two others which flew after 2 yrs. Besides the routine task of scheduled inspections, rectifications and training of his personnel, Sqn Ldr Chopra also headed a project group formed at this Wing for development of a Fault Tree Analysis (FTA) for methodical rectification of every conceivable snag. The document of nearly 500 pages containing Fault Tree and Flow Charts of all trades has been printed and has received high praise.

For his sincerity, sustained hard work, initiative and professional competence, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr Pradeep Kumar Chopra.

Sqn Ldr Raj Karan Singh Shera has been on the posted strength of a fighter squadron in the IAF.

Sqn Ldr Shera is one of the few engineers trained in USSR on MiG-29 aircraft. He was posted to a combat Sqn, the first squadron to get converted to MiG-29. With his professional approach, he efficiently handled the complex task of setting up the first MiG-29 Squadron DSS. The proof of his efforts, especially in terms of planning and organising, was evident from the fact that within no time the squadron could commence operations in an organised fashion. He also was instrumental in the pioneering work of making 1st line servicing schedules and ORP procedures.

Due to inadequate spares support from USSR, the unserviceability of avionics spares had been affecting the serviceability of MiG29 Fleet, which had come down to 45%. At that stage, repair of avionics LRUs was thought of. The task was very challenging as no expertise, publications, circuit diagrams etc. were available. Inspite of these handicaps, Sqn Ldr RKS Shera accepted the challenge and started the repair work which was a total pioneering effort at field level. His dedicated effort resulted in recovery of LRUs. He also ventured into indigenisation of certain critical spares, thus saving huge amount of foreign exchange.

For his distinguished services of very exceptional order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr RKS Shera.

On 13 Oct 92, the hauling cable of a cable car carrying passengers to 'Timber Trail'

holiday resort had snapped and ten passengers on board got stranded in the middle of the valley. The Air Force was given the task to rescue the passengers from the cable car which was dangling at a height of 1500 ft above the river bed. A specially selected aircrew including JWO Yadav was tasked to undertake this hazardous mission. The only way, the tourists could be saved was by winching them up from the cable car. For this, the helicopter had to hover precariously close to the set of cables that ran above the cable car. The mission was fraught with danger, a slightest mistake on the part of any team member could end in disaster.

The helicopter was maneuvered to a position above the cable car, with a roof approx 2' x 2' in dimension. Absence of any visual reference, turbulence and strong winds made precision hovering over the car very difficult and hazardous. Hovering is tiring and doing the same repetitively ten times, 20 mts each, involved exceptional courage and professional skills. It was due to sheer professionalism and exceptional courage that all the ten passengers were rescued. This rescue operation was perhaps the first of its kind in the history.

For exceptional courage, professionalism of highest order, excellent team work and exemplary devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to JWO Brahmdev Yadav.

On 13 Oct 92, the hauling cable of a cable car carrying passengers to 'Timber Trail' holiday resort had snapped and ten passengers on board got stranded in the middle of the valley. The Air Force was given the task to rescue the passengers from the cable car which was dangling at a height of 1500 ft above the river bed. A specially selected aircrew including Sgt Santosh Kumar Sahu was tasked to undertake this hazardous mission. The only way, the tourists could be saved was by winching them up from the cable car. For this, the helicopter had to hover precariously close to the set of cables that ran above the cable car. The mission was fraught with danger, a slightest mistake on the part of any team member could end in disaster.

The helicopter was maneuvered to a position above the cable car, with a roof approx 2' x 2' in dimension. Absence of any visual reference, turbulence and strong winds made precision hovering over the car very difficult and hazardous. Hovering is tiring and doing the same repetitively ten times, 20 mts each, involved exceptional courage and professional skills. It was due to sheer professionalism and exceptional courage that all the ten passengers were rescued. The rescue operation was perhaps the first of its kind in the history.

For exceptional courage, professionalism of highest order, excellent team work and exemplary devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sgt SK Sahu.

On 13 Oct 92, the hauling cable of a cable car carrying passengers to 'Timber Trail' holiday resort had snapped and ten passengers on board got stranded in the middle of the valley. The Air Force was given the task to rescue the passengers from the cable car which was dangling at a height of 1500 ft above the river bed.

A specially selected aircrew including Sgt Dalai Gangadhar was tasked to undertake this hazardous mission. The only way, the tourists could be saved was by winching them up from the cable car. For this, the helicopter had to hover precariously close to the set of cables that ran above the cable car. The mission was fraught with danger, a slightest mistake on the part of any team member could end in disaster.

The helicopter was maneuvered to a position above the cable car, with a roof approx 2' x 2' in dimension. Absence of any visual reference, turbulence and strong winds made precision hovering over the car very difficult and hazardous. Hovering is tiring and doing the same repetitively ten times, 20 mts each, involved exceptional courage and professional skills. It was due to sheer professionalism and exceptional courage that all the ten passengers were rescued. The rescue operation was perhaps the first of its kind in the history.

For exceptional courage, professionalism of highest order, excellent team work and exemplary devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sgt Dalai Gangadhar.

Air Cmde Suresh Chandra Vohra was commissioned on 10 Nov 62 in the Logistics Branch of the Air Force.

Whilst being the Chief Logistics Officer at No 25 ED, a number of new weapon systems were inducted in IAF for which No 25 ED was designated as the stock-holding depot. Air Cmde Vohra, within existing resources of the ED created necessary storage space and infrastructure to absorb the additional inventory which accounted for a saving of Rs. 1.6 crores approximately. He retrieved 407 time barred loans valued at Rs. 24 crores. Thereafter he commanded 27 ED creditably.

Air Cmde Vohra after taking over Command of 24 ED, started the task of computerisation of inventory right from day one. Though hardware was yet to be received, one available PC XT and printer were utilised to start computerisation of Jaguar inventory, which constitutes 25% of the Depot holdings and is valued at over Rs. 700 crores. The task was completed in the short period of four months. This was achieved entirely within the existing resources.

For distinguished service of high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Air Cmdr SC Vohra.

Air Cmde Manyam Mohan was commissioned on 04 Nov 62 in the AE (E) branch of the IAF.

He assumed the duties of the Command Systems Officer at Western Air Command in Mar 91. Air Cmde M Mohan is specifically accredited with integration of IFF system with PSM-33 radar, relocation of 3937 tonnes of War Wastage Reserves stores and identification and installation of special lighting conductors at a hill top to prevent damage to the radar which are distinct and definitive achievements.

A disciplined officer with ingrained sense of responsibility and deep devotion to duty, his advice is sought by one and all on professional matters. A leader of men, Air Cmde Mohan has shown rare efficiency, utmost sincerity, single-minded devotion and absolute loyalty in enhancing reliability of performance of all systems under his purview.

For his distinguished service of high order and devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Air Cmde M Mohan.

Gp Capt Shyamal Kumar Lahiri was commissioned in the Medical Corps in Mar 64. His unlimited capacity for hard work made him an automatic choice to take over command of an Air Force Hospital (AFH) in 1981. This AFH, located in a politically sensitive state, was beset with a host of union instigated manmanagement problems. Through his involvement, he was able to turn the situation around in a very short time and transformed the AFH into one of the finest hospitals of the IAF. A fact which was repeatedly acknowledged by the sister services and by the Royal Bhutan Army. In 1981, he was specially selected to take up his present responsibility of Deputy Director General Medical Services (Personnel) (DDGMS-P) at Air Headquarters. It is to his credit that during his entire tenure as DDGMS (P), there has never been even a single representation by the entire medical fraternity.

For distinguished service of high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Gp Capt Shyamal Kumar Lahiri.

Group Captain Jaspal Singh Gujral was commissioned on 31 Dec 67 as a fighter pilot. A graduate of Defence Services Staff College and Instiute of Defence Management, he commanded a MiG-21 fighter squadron during 1985-87. For exceptional devotion to duty, he was awarded Vayu Seva Medal in 1988. Gp Capt Gujral is an A-2 Qualified Flying Instructor and has flown more than 3800 accident free hours on single engine aircraft.

For his professional competence, Gp Capt Gujral was specially selected fro appointment of Chief Instructor (CI) Flying at Air Force Academy (AFA), the premier flying training institution of the IAF. In this appointment, he was overall incharge of ab-initio and advance flying training of pilots. Gp Capt Gujral produced excellent results while training 547 pilot trainees - the mainstay of the IAF during times to come. His personal involvement in all aspects of training culminated in consi derable improvement in flight safety. Flight safety record of zero landing accidents sine 30 Sep 91, and zero spin accident of trainees since 01 Dec 90 are visible indicators of his superb performance. Besides, Gp Capt Gujral has coordinated and led seven fly pasts during Graduation Parades, remodified Academy orders concerning local flying areas (LFA) management and fabricated a scale model of LFA. In addition he compiled and excellent précis on "service etiquettes" in the IAF. His services have contributed immensely in producing highly accomplished officer. While attaining this objective, he also ensured that no aircraft were lost during conduct of training.

For distinguished service of a high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Gp Capt Jaspal Singh Gujral.

Gp Capt SC Malhan, VM VSM was commissioned on 18 May 68. A helicopter pilot par-excellence, he was specially selected to go to erstwhile USSR for training on Mi-25 attack helicopters. As Commanding Officer of the Mi-25 Squadron, he participated in the Sri Lanka operations and was awarded Vayu Sena Medal for gallantry in the face of the enemy on 13 Apr 88. He was awarded Vishisht Seva Medal for distinguished service in 1991.

Gp Capt Malhan was appointed as base commander of a newly raised air base at 10060 ft AMSL near Siachen Glacier in Apr 91. He ensured that the air operations in the defence on Siachen Glacier went on flawlessly and simultaneously built an Air Force Base in the most pristine surroundings. Gp Capt Malhan displayed remarkable resourcefulness in construction of rooms, bunkers and MT sheds with material salvaged from con demned vehicles and unusable packing material through 'SHRAMDAN' to tide over the pressing requirements. He could make this possible by coordinating machinery and resources between the MES, GREF, Field Engineers and the contractors. He was able to set up various sections, including a well stocked logistic section in a very short period. No body could have delivered so much in such a short time against overwhelming odds.

For distinguished service of high order, the President is pleased to award Bar to Vishisht Seva Medal to GP Capt Malhan.

Gp Capt Anand Swarup Atri was commissioned as a Fighter Pilot in the Indian Air Force on 2nd June 1968. The Officer has commendably commanded an Air Defence Unit and a Flying unit in succession.

When he took over the command of flying unit, the aircraft serviceability was around 50-60%. He dedicated himself whole heartedly, towards improving the aircraft serviceability and reached the target of 100% serviceability within a very short period, which was maintained all through, thereafter, during his tenure. The unit executed the flood relief operations flawlessly which afflicted the State of Gujarat during 1988.

While commanding the Air Defence (AD) Unit in Central Sector, he achieved 100% categorisation state of controllers and 98% serviceability of the ageing radar and allied equipment of Russian Origin.

Gp Capt Atri was posted as Joint Director Personnel Planning at Air Headquarters. Soon after assuming charge of his new assignment, the officer displayed an uncanny sense to grasp the intricate problems related top manpower. With his dogged perseverance, most of the cases which were in the pipe-line with MOD could reach finality.

For distinguished service of high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Gp Capt AS Atri.

Capt Charanjit Singh Gill is working as the Ops I (F) at Western Air Command (WAC). Earlier he commanded a front line MiG-23 BN squadron and later was Chief Operational Officer (COO) at a premier base.

As COO, Gp Capt Gill was charged with the care, maintenance and utilisation of Sidhwan Khas (SK) range. He applied himself to these tasks with diligence and the SK range utilisation was very appreciably enhanced from about 5000 sorties to over 8000 sorties a year without seeking any additional resources.

At HQ WAC, Gp Capt Gill was made responsible for planning and conducting the command armament meet for 1992-93. The exercise was accomplished in the most professional manner and it was completed to the entire satisfaction of all concerned.

Gp Capt Gill has been closely associated with the development of additional air to ground range facilities in the command. With the inauguration of Toshe Maidan range in Jul 93, the long felt need of the service turned a reality wherein Gp Capt Gill's contribution is creditable.

For distinguished service of high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Gp Capt Charanjit Singh Gill.

Wg Cdr VK Gandhi was commissioned as an aeronautical Engineer in the IAF in Jul 1970.

He has been entrusted with onerous responsibilities such as Officer-in-Charge AN-32 production at a Base Repair Depot and Air Force Inspector with Directorate of Air Staff Inspection. Wg Cdr Gandhi was justifiably selected as Chief Engineering Officer (CEO) of a wing to remedy its perpetual maintenance problems.

A thorough professional with in-depth knowledge of Aircraft systems, Wg Cdr Gandhi has been able to rectify various complicated snags, for which HAL help was necessitated during the past. By meticulous planning and effective leadership, the Central Repair and Servicing Section (CR&SS) at the Wing carried out 39 inspections and effected 11 engine changes. In addition, he brought five aircraft on line which were on long AOG (Aircraft Operationally Grounded) within six months. The aircraft serviceability rose from a low of 59% to 73%.

Wg Cdr Gandhi made valuable contribution by way of interacting with agencies like HAL and suggested improvements which were accepted and implemented by HAL.

For distinguished service of high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wg Cdr VK Gandhi.

Wg Cdr Amitava Chaudhuri was commissioned on 04 Jan 71. Presently he is appointed as Technical Planning Officer at HQ Maintenance Command.

He has made very effective contribution in the field of indigenisation of computers. Taking into account his expertise in the field of armament, the officer was given two special armament projects, viz. modification of MRSIV rocket pods for Iskara Aircraft and development of colour smoke emission pods for Kiran MK-II Aircraft. Wg Cdr Chaudhuri personally designed the various sub-systems and prepared 55 engineering drawings. Both these projects are in advanced stage of completion.

During his current tenure at HQ Maintenance Command, he has put in long hours of sustained hard work unmindful of personal comforts. His professionalism, dedication to duty and sincerity of purpose are exemplary and worth emulation.

For distinguished service of high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wg Cdr A Chaudhuri.

He was specially selected to command one of the most recent and potent acquisition OSAAKM Surface to Air Guided Weapon (SAGW) squadron. The Unit had only 80 ab-initio technicians, seven vehicles and no admin staff to undertake operational tasks at Jaisalmer, Uttarlai, Kandla and two other locations on the Kutch Border. Against these odds, Wg Cdr Bajaj took upon the self-defined challenge of setting up a competent, cohesive and disciplined unit. Under his dynamic leadership, the squadron participated in four major exercises and operated from different locations successfully. It also took part in six Electronic Warfare (EW) workshops and live firings.

Wg Cdr Bajaj raised the unit on the lines of the already proven system of a fighter squadron and formulated orders and instructions, conducted briefings, debriefings and lectures for combat teams. He introduced an Authorisation Book System for the various activities of his men and monitored progress on flow charts.

For distinguished service of high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wg Cdr HK Bajaj.

Wg Cdr Keshava Murthy Ramasundara was commissioned in IAF on 05 Jul 71 in the Engineering (Electronics) branch of Air Force.

During past 4 years, Wg Cdr Ramasundara provided exceptional services to improve the serviceability of MiG-29 fleet. Despite acute resource crunch and collapse in Russian supply system, he persuaded Russian autho rities at all levels and managed to extract maximum support which enabled IAF to maintain MiG-29 fleet's operational preparedn ess. In doing so, he exerted sustained pressure on Russian agencies which resulted in supply of long pending contractual deficiencies amounting to nearly Rs. 2 crores.

With his very thorough professional knowledge on MiG-29 ac, on a number of occasions he advised units to correct their procedural lapses and also assisted them in carrying out the detailed analysis of serious technological problems on aircraft and evolved remedial measures.

For distinguished service of high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wg Cdr KM Ramasundara.

Wg Cdr Vijay Kumar Dayalu was commissioned in the Administration Branch on 17 Jun 1972. On 11 May 1992, he was appointed the Camp Commandant at Air Headquarters.

One of the most important functions of the Camp Commandant is to maintain the decor and dignity befitting the Service Headquarters. In this context, the complete renovation and modernisation of the Air Headquarters foyer, Operation Briefing room, CAS Conference Hall Complex and the VIP Entrance were completed within extremely compact time schedule. During the Diamond Jubilee Cele brations, these improvements were apprec iated by all the dignitaries who visited the Vayu Bhavan.

Wg Cdr Dayalu introduced a number of innovations and maintained a follow up with a view to achieve optimum utilisation of scarce resources. The creation of a special storage area at the Safdarjung Airport and streamlining of procedure for office equipment are some such examples. Working well beyond the call of his duty, enthusiasm and cheerfulness are his natural attributes.

For distinguished service of high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wg Cdr VK Dayalu.

Wg Cdr D Kapur was commissioned on 03 Jul 72 as an Engineering (Electronics) Officer. Presently, he is appointed as Senior Electrical Officer at a fighter wing.

Distance Measuring Equipment (DME) is the only pilot interpreted navigation aid available for Hunter aircraft. Its corresponding ground equipment Eureka has been unserviceable for last three years and could not be repaired even by the Specialist repair parties. Wg Cdr Kapur pin-pointed the faulty components and repaired them.

Wg Cdr Kapur has engineered a modification to suit the AF requirements. Dornier aircraft requires 28 volts for starting whereas normal starting trolley provides either 24 volts or 30 volts. Wg Cdr Kapur modified 30 volts trolley to give 28 volts by building additional terminals for Dornier aircraft starting. This is likely to be accepted as standard modification all over IAF.

For distinguished service of high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to WG Cdr D Kapur.

Wg Cdr Rajender Khurana was commissioned in the IAF on 02 Jun 73. He is commanding a prestigious Strategic Reconnaissance Squadron since 27 Apr 92.

In 1988, he was awarded Vayu Sena Medal for successfully leading a task force on reconnaissance missions across the border.

During the last one year, he made numerous innovations in the field of aerial photography and introduced new method for conducting survey close to border areas. He achieved record aerial survey coverage of 5.03 lakh sq km during the last one year earning the IAF a revenue of more than seven crores. Besides the financial savings the innovations would greatly help in enhancing the operational preparedness of our Armed Forces.

Wg Cdr R Khurana conceived and undertook project studies on development of medium range oblique-photography capability with the available vertical camera systems, on Avro and Canberra aircraft and low level high speed photography capability on Canberra aircraft with the available medium/high altitude camera systems. This will be of immense value in hostile air defence environment.

For distinguished service of high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wg Cdr R Khurana.

Wg Cdr R Malhotra was commissioned on 09 Feb 74 in the fighter stream of Air Force. He is a Fighter Combat Leader and an Instrument Rating Instructor and Examiner. He has more than 3400 hours of accident-free flying to his credit. In Aug 90, he was posted to MiG Operational Flying Training Unit (MOFTU) and has been the Flight Commander since Jul 92.

MOFTU is a premier training institution of the IAF for the fighter stream. Wg Cdr Malhotra had been instrumental in setting high professional standards both in flying and ground training. Bad weather and limited experience of the fledgling fighter pilots were his major constraints. Through his single minded dedication and tireless hard work, he ensured that MOF training was completed on due date without compromising the quality of training, a singular and unique achievement by itself. His result oriented approach and personal involvement have greatly enhanced the operational capability of the unit.

For distinguished service of high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wg Cdr R Malhotra.

Sqn Ldr Sudhakar Chandrakant Kunte was commissioned on 05 Jan 76. He is on the posted strength of ASTE since 01 Feb 89.

With commendable technical skill, devotion to work and exemplary perseverance, he developed a computerised data acquisition system based on indigenously available PCs and Video Cassette Recorders. His highly advanced technique won praise not only from our R&D organisations, but also from the US Air Force Test Pilot School team that visited the Establishment.

Sqn Ldr Kunte devised a scheme to record the flight test data directly on PC thus reducing flight test time as well as data retrieval time. He further enhanced the scheme by utilising two PCs to simultaneously record the data as well as to give onboard real time display for test manoeuvre monitoring in the aircraft. These schemes were very successfully implemented during the 'AEW-TDP' and 'AN-32 Re-engineing' trials.

For distinguished service of high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr SC Kunte.

Sqn Ldr Ramaswamy Vijay Kumar was commissioned in the accounts Branch of the Indian Air Force in Jun 76. He has been working as Officer-in-Charge Air Force Sports Complex and Honorary Secretary Air Force Golf Club at New Delhi since Mar 92.

During this tenure, with his hard work, foresight and meticulous planning, he brought tremendous improvement in playing conditions at the complex which have been highly appreciated by everyone using the facility. Besides he brought about 41% increase in general fund position during a short period which is a testimony of his capability as finance manager.

During his service career, he has held many appointments with distinction. As incharge of Equipment Accounting Service at No. 24 Equipment Depot, AF his experience in accounting systems came into full play resulting in efficient inventory management without drawing any audit objection.

For distinguished service of high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn. Ldr Ramaswamy Vijay Kumar.

Sqn Ldr Sitaram Subramanian was commissioned on 29 Dec 76 in the Administration branch of the IAF. He has been on the posted strength of Headquarters South Western Air Command, IAF since 01 Apr 92 and working as Staff Officer to the Air Officer Commandingin-Chief.

During his tenure as Station Adjutant of a premier fighter base, he overhauled and completely streamlined personnel administration management policies and activities of the Station. He was later asked to take over the duties of O i/c works which gave the works services of the base the much needed fillip. A thorough professional, he contributed significantly towards the Wing being adjudged the 'Best in Administration' in South Western Air Command, IAF for three consecutive years between 1987 and 1989. As a counter Intelligence Officer and later as Liaison Officer in a Liaison Unit (LU) his deep involvement and constant monitoring was instrumental in gearing up the general state of security and counter intelligence in all units under his jurisdiction.

For distinguished service of a high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr Sitaram Subramanian.

Sqn Ldr Ashish Kumar Saxena was commis sioned on 25 Jul 77 in the Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics) branch of the IAF. He has been on the posted strength of a combat Squadron since 29 Apr 91 and has performed the duties of Senior Technical Officer (STO).

As STO, Sqn Ldr Saxena managed the servicing of two ageing fleets, i.e. Canberra and MiG-21 aircraft. It was largely due to his innovative approach that he could modify and made serviceable EW pod of MiG-21 which is essentially repairable at factory, thus saving approximately Rupees Thirty Lakhs to IAF. He also modified and made a preamplifier of the EW equipment serviceable which was no longer in production and no substitute was available in market. This modification was approved by Air HQrs and resulted in saving of approximately Rupees Seven Lakhs. Sqn Ldr Saxena fabricated a directional coupler which was urgently required for an operational exercise by combining some items from other equipments, thus making the pod serviceable in time.

For distinguished service of high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr AK Saxena.

Sqn Ldr MK Srivastava was commissioned on 25 Jul 77 in the Engineering (Electronics) branch of Air Force and has been posted to a Wing as Commanding Officer of a Missile Maintenance and Provisioning Unit since Oct 91.

Sqn Ldr Srivastava was entrusted with the onerous task of setting up the Interim Missile Testing Facility at the Wing, pending the completion of permanent work services. This entire infrastructure was required to be completed within the warranty period. Sqn Ldr Srivastava not only met the dead line, but helped in detecting unserviceabilities in some missiles, which resulted in the manufacturers accepting a warranty claim of $40,000. In addition, setting up of the Interim Missile Test Facility required some test equipment which was indigenously designed and fabricated by the officer. This resulted in saving of foreign exchange to the tune of $70,000.

Sqn Ldr Srivastava formulated the syllabus and conducted training for officers and airmen thus creating a pool of backup personnel.

For distinguished service of high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr MK Srivastava.

Sqn Ldr BK Sood was commissioned on 05 Jan 81 in the Engineering (Electronics) branch of Air Force and has been posted to MiG-29 Technical Flight.

Besides maintaining high aircraft serviceability and contributing effectively towards Flight and Maintenance Safety, he has a large number of innovations and modifica tions to his credit. Fire control radar of MiG-29 ac required a test bench (UDS) for testing and rectification. For these facilities, the unit had to depend upon Wing or the BRD for the maintenance of radars. Sqn Ldr Sood, with his dedicated team was able to fabricate a test bench to do the job of UDS. This resulted in saving of foreign exchange amounting to approximately one crore rupees.

Sqn Ldr Sood has attained an exceptional skill on the computers. Due to his efforts, the Wing is justifiably proud of having achieved computerisation of all the snags of the three types of ac on the Station.

For distinguished service of high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr BK Sood.

Sqn Ldr MK Thakur was commissioned on 11 June 81 in the Administrative branch of Air Force.

Sqn Ldr Thakur's quality of work, tenacity and will to achieve under conditions of stress are his confirmed forte in the units that he has served. This was most evident during his tenure as Station Adjutant of Air Force Station, Leh where under difficult conditions of extreme climate, he worked tirelessly and often beyond the normal working hours to cater to the needs of the Station and its three distantly located detachments.

In the year 1992, IG was entrusted with the responsibility of the Chairman 1AF Diamond Jubilee (DJ) celebrations. Sqn Ldr Thakur as Staff Officer volunteered for the task of starting the DJ celebrations even when no guidelines or previous information was available on the subject. His performance in coordinating the activities of 15 committees was excellent.

For distinguished service of high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr MK Thakur.

MWO Nityananda Bose MTD joined the Air Force on 09 Sep 61 and is on the posted strength of a Squadron since 02 Oct 88. He has been functioning as the Mechanical Transport Officer (MTO).

MWO NN Bose is an outstanding and a competent tradesman whose performance through out his career merits recognition. During his training, he was adjudged best in trade and awarded Best All-rounder Trophy. He stood first in the Staff Driving Course and the specialist Vehicle Operator's course.

At the Wing, he brought about a radical change in MT serviceability state with a corresponding reduction in accidents. The serviceability of MT Vehicles in 1992 and 1993 has been over 92% average.

During Feb 93, one crashed MiG-23 was required to be salvaged from the crash site which was on the approach of runway. MWO Bose at his own initiative obtained PSP Sheets to lay a path, used two KRAZ vehicles judiciously and retrieved the aircraft. He is a manager on whom one can rely in all contingencies.

For distinguished service of high order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to MWO Nityananda Bose.

Air Commodore Sriprumbodur Raghavan was commissioned in the Logistics branch on 10 November 62. He has held the appointment of Senior Logistics Management Officer at Eastern Air Command and been in Command of Air Force Station Faridabad. He also served a tenure on deputation to Canteen Stores Department as Deputy General Manager. He has successfully completed the Long Defence Management Course. Air Cmde Raghavan was appointed the Air Officer Commanding of a major Equipment Depot (ED) on 01 February 1993. His task was to provide effective spares support to the entire Russian fleet of the Air Force in the face of dwindling availability of spares from CIS countries. He instituted methods to identify commonalty of spares among the MiG variants, the tapping of HAL held IAF stores and analysis of the past demands and, thus, identified a large number of critical items that were later procured. He provided valuable inputs for prioritised indigenisation of spares. He identified 88 rotables, which were causing problems in the field and accordingly, the Base Repair Depots (BRDs) were tasked for rotable repairs.

The Depot was assigned the role of developing the entire inventory management package of the newly acquired Antariksh 303 Computer System. Under his able guidance and leadership, the Depot has accomplished development of certain softwares despite various teething problems. The software developed by the Depot has now been accepted as standard inventory management package.

The efforts put in by Air Cmde S Raghavan enabled the Depot to meet all its tasks and provide uninterrupted and sustained support to operational units despite severe all round constraints.

For distinguished service of high order the president is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Air Cmde Sriprumbodur Raghavan.

Air Cmde Srinivasan Venkatachary, was commissioned on 19 January 1963 in the Accounts branch of the IAF. During his service, he has held assignments at Stations, Wings, Commands and Air HQ. Throughout, he has displayed keen sense of involvement and dedication.

As Joint Director Financial Planning since March 1991, he was involved in the formulation of Air Force annual budgets, monitoring of expenditure of acquisitions, modernisation, works services and locally controlled heads, besides keeping a close watch over the foreign exchange outgo vis-à-vis allocations. With budget allocations far below the projections, commitments on maintenance, modernisation schemes and contractual payments had to be very carefully and judiciously controlled. In the task of monitoring expenditure and regulating the allocations, his incisive scrutiny, apt prioritisation and skilful timely diversion of funds greatly contributed towards totally avoiding defaults in payments of contractual obligations for foreign acquisition, meeting all prioritised requirements of AF formations and optimum utilisation of funds by the allottees. It was due to his personal involvement that Air Force budget was fully utilised during the last three years. Management of shoe string budget with expenditure and prioritisation undergoing frequent changes at the level of Air HQ and the Ministry and diversion of funds for high priority schemes entails maintenance of accurate inputs through constant liaison with various agencies. Air Cmde Chary has always taken this task as challenge and

successfully ensured accurate inputs and enabled the authorities to make optimum use of funds.

For distinguished service of high order the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Air Cmde Srinivasan Venkatachary.

Air Commodore Proteep Kumar Ghosh was commissioned as an Engineer in the Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics) Branch on 29 January 1963. He has held the appointments of Deputy Planning Officer in the Ministry of Defence, Command Systems Officer in Training Command, Command of Air Force Station Dalhousie, a Regional Air Defence Ground Environment System (ADGES) Maintenance Establishment (RAME) and a Base Repair Depot. As the first Commanding Officer of RAME at Guwahati Air Cmde PK Ghosh was responsible for overhaul and maintenance of Diesel Generating (DG) sets, air conditioning equipment and calibration of Test Equipment belonging to various ADGES and Flying units in the Eastern Sector. He had severe constraints in terms of manpower and equipment since the establishment for the unit was pending sanction from the Govt. Through his sound technical knowledge and leadership qualities he not only met all the assigned overhaul and calibration tasks, but also maintained over 85% average serviceability of DG sets in the field. Calibration of Test Equipment undertaken by him drastically reduced their down time in the field units. Further, during the flash flood at Hashimara and Panagarh in 1992, he averted total failure of the ADGES network through his timely technical assistance.

Air Cmde PK Ghosh was appointed the Air Officer Commanding of a Base Repair Depot (BRD) on 01 Feb 94. Though new to this assignment, he has already made a mark by indigenising a large number of critically required spares no longer available ex CIS countries. He also successfully contributed in bringing up the equipment at the Interim Test Range at Chandipur, facilitating the scheduled test launch of Agni Missile.

For distinguished service of high order, the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Air Cmde Proteep Kumar Ghosh.

Air Cmde Gulshan Kumar Kwatra was commissioned on 06 April 1964 in Engineering Branch of the IAF. He performed creditably during 1971 War and was Mentioned in Despatches. He has held appointments of Chief Engineering Officer at Uttarlai, Chief of Planning and Chief of Aircraft at a Base Repair Depot and staff appointments at Air Headquarters. He has also been on deputation to the Botswana Defence Forces.

He was appointed Chief Engineering Officer at Air Force Station Bidar with effect from 07 Dec 1992 at a time when works services for Airfield Lighting Project were moving at a slow pace. With his vast managerial experience, high intellectual acumen, sheer grit and determination he analysed the prevailing bottlenecks and initiated remedial measures. These efforts resulted in completion of the project on time.

He was responsible for recovery of 12 aircraft grounded for prolonged period, speedy aircraft structural repairs and sustained high aircraft serviceability. He demonstrated air worthiness of over 40 aircraft by achieving 100% serviceability and flying all aircraft on 12 occasions.

He spearheaded a drive for inventory control resulting in saving of Rs. 57 lakhs. His involvement in commissioning of Modern Servicing Garage and repairs of safety vehicles resulted in substantial savings.

He was responsible in minimising aircraft accidents and incidents due to technical reasons and achieving zero vehicle accident rate. He introduced a number of modifications and innovative maintenance practices and safety measures. His professionalism and dynamic approach added a new dimension in achieving high maintenance standards.

For distinguished service of high order the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Air Cmde Gulshan Kumar Kwatra.

Gp Capt Ashok Kumar was commissioned in the Logistics Branch on 10 April 1965. He held the appointments of Senior Logistics Officer Air Force Station Jodhpur, Command logistics Management Officer at HQ South Western Air Command and Command of Equipment Depot (ED) Detachment. He was also appointed as Defence Adviser to the Ethiopian Air Force. For his creditable performance, he was Mentioned in Despatches in 1971. Gp Capt Ashok Kumar was appointed the Commanding Officer of an Air Stores Park on 28 January 1993. His responsibility com prised providing sustained spares support to all the forward bases of Western Air Command (WAC). He made valuable suggestions in respect of stocking policy for various items which ultimately enabled the Depot to backload more than 3500 lines of items. Sharper focus on critically required items was thus possible. Under his constant pursuance, a large number of critical items were identified, provisioned and procured through indigenisation as well as foreign indent. He further rationalised the distribution of spares by corelating flying effort with spares requirement and through proper dialogue with HQ WAC supplied the essential requirements to all units. The improved packaging of Aero-lubes introduced by him brought down their transit losses considerably. He also contributed substantially towards identification of nonmoving stores and their disposal.

The dedicated efforts put in by the officer paid direct dividends in terms of substantial reduction of AOG (Aircraft Operationally Grounded) demands of items and also better management of resources. The functioning of Air Force Servicing Cell was toned up by him and all outstanding AOG demands cleared in a time bound manner.

For distinguished service of high order the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Gp Capt Ashok Kumar.

Group Captain Vinod Khanna was commissioned as an Electronic Engineer on 04 October 1965. He has held the appointments of Deputy Air Attaché, Embassy of India, USA, Chief Engineer Officer AF Station Rajokri, Commanding Officer of a Guided Weapon Technical Squadron, Deputy Command Engineering Officer in HQ South Western Air Command and at present holds the appointment of Station Commander at Air Force Station, Kasauli. In the year 1993, AOC-in-C Western Air Command directed the station to make contingency plans to prevent any disruption of communications at Kasauli hub-centre. Group Capt Khanna took upon himself to fabricate light weight, low cost and highly manoeuvrable antennas in order to reduce the time of link loss. After fabricating the antennas, trials were conducted on various links to establish the usefulness of these antennas. The trials proved successful and use of these light weight contingency antennas has now been accepted by Air HQ for use in other hub-centres also as contingency measure. By devising these antennas and proving their usefulness, Gp Capt Vinod Khanna has saved at least thirty lakh rupees. The time of link loss has also been reduced from 10-12 hours per antenna to less than 02 hours.

The Officer also initiated various measures such as modification to power house and electronic equipment to keep the serviceability of equipment at more than 99%. For maintaining a high degree of operational preparedness and very high serviceability of equipment, the Station was awarded the Best Performance Trophy in November 1993.

For distinguished service of high order the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Gp Capt Vinod Khanna.

Gp Capt Shakti Nath Kar was commissioned on 03 January 1966 in the Engineering Branch of IAF. In his more than 28 years of service he has held important staff and field appointments which include Senior Technical Officer of a MiG-21 Squadron and Senior Engineer (Mechanical) of a MiG Operating Wing. As Deputy Chief Resident Engineer at Resident Technical Office (Air Armament) he has made valuable contributions to defence indigenisation effort by clearing a number of operational and training stores for inducting into Air Force. He is an alumni of Institute of Armament Technology and Defence Services Staff College.

In 1991, Gp Capt SN Kar was called upon to head a task force to upgrade the operational status of a life expired missile system for which a foreign manufacturer demanded nearly Rs 1.6 Crore. He took up this challenge and by sheer professional competence and innovative approach completed the task in record time using indigenous resources. By this valuable contribution, he not only enhanced the operational potential of the Air Force but also saved Rs 1.6 crore at a time when the country was passing through an acute resource crunch.

In 1994, while on a pre-delivery inspection assignment abroad, his tact and skillful handling of negotiations, resulted in a saving of Rs 1.44 crore in precious foreign exchange.

For distinguished service of high order the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Gp Capt Shakti Nath Kar.

Group Captain Hariharpur Venkatasubbiah Hari Haran was commissioned on 24 December 1967 in the Administrative branch of the IAF. He has functioned as Assistant Provost Marshal at Agra and Dy Provost Marshal at Air Headquarters.

AF Station Gorakhpur is 30 years old and works services were needed to upgrade existing facilities and to create new assets for current requirements. He formulated the works plan to tackle both aspects and followed up with Boards of Officers for special repairs and new works. His personal involvement enabled retrieval of usable assets resulting in considerable savings and better utilisation of meagre funds. Simul taneously, he devoted his attention towards the runway resurfacing work, then in progress. His long hours on site with the engineers ensured adherence to specifications and time frames.

Works services by nature require time for execution. Gp Capt HV Hari Haran ensured reduction of lead time required for execution of works services through accurate forecasting and meticulous planning. He pursued all works with zeal and perseverance, and completed large number of them within the planned time. AF Station Gorakhpur was adjudged 'Best Administered Wing' of command in 1993-94 and secured 'Average plus' assessment in Administration from Directorate of Air Staff Inspection in May 1994.

For distinguished service of high order the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Gp Capt Hariharpur Venkatasubbiah Hari Haran.

Group Captain Aravinda Agrawal was commissioned as an engineer in the Engineering branch on 01 January 1968. He has been associated with aircraft maintenance since his commission. He has been posted as the Senior Test Engineer of Aircraft and Systems Testing Establishment and at Air HQ in the Mirage Induction Cell.

Gp Capt Agrawal was the Chief Engineering Officer of Air Force Station, Adampur. During his tenure, maintenance activities of the base have been steadily im proved. Over and above his normal day-to-day commitments, he has personally inspired his officers and technicians to innovate and modify rigs and aircraft subsystems for the benefit of service. There are four innovations for MiG-23 ac, two for MiG-29 ac and two for general purpose which merit recognition. The most noteworthy are the test rig for checking the Laser Range Finder without removing the components from the ac and the Radar Test Bench for MiG-29 ac. The local fabrication of both these saved 80 man-hours per laser testing procedure and approximately Rs. one crore in foreign exchange for the Radar Test Bench.

For distinguished service of high order the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Gp Capt Arvinda Agrawal.

Gp Capt DK Hegde was commissioned as an Aeronautical Engineer in the IAF on 15 August 1968. Whilst being the unit signal officer at Air Force Station Sirsa during the Indo-Pak conflict 1971, he performed creditably and was Mentioned in Despatches. In his 26 years of service he has held various instructional, staff and field appointments. He has worked as Project Engineer at Radar Communication Project Office (RCPO) and Joint Director, Air Defence Ground Environ ment Systems (ADGES) at Air HQ. He is currently the Deputy Command Engineering Officer of an Operational Command.

Gp Capt Hegde has been trained in UK for the computerised Ground Replay Equipment for the Crash Data Recorder of Jaguar aircraft. He installed and commissioned these equipments at two of the Jaguar bases most efficiently. His keen observations and thorough understanding of this system resulted in modifications to the original software which has greatly improved the performance of these equipments.

During the tenure at a Jaguar base he successfully undertook repair of complex airborne electronic equipment which were otherwise to be repaired abroad. This saved large sum in foreign exchange. He amply demonstrated his skill and professionalism once again during his tenure at a MiG-29 base. He set up and conducted extended second line servicing of avionic and navigational equipment of the ac though there were neither spare facilities nor literature for most of the components. This resulted in saving of precious foreign exchange besides improving the serviceability.

For distinguished service of high order, the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Gp Capt Dayanand Kunhanna Hegde.

Gp Capt Pradeep Kumar was commissioned in the IAF as a helicopter pilot on 21 June 1969. He was on the staff of the Flying Instructors School from January 1981 to December 1982. He is a graduate of the Defence Services Staff College.

Gp Capt Pradeep Kumar took over the command of Air Force Station, Kumbhigram on 24 August 1992. Due to geographical and environmental factors the life in the Station was considered to be hard. Gp Capt Pradeep Kumar through his hard work, foresight and total involvement improved the quality of life on the station. The Station at the moment boasts of a dairy farm with abundant supply of fresh milk and various other Non-Public Fund ventures. By efficient management and reproductions in overheads the Non-Public Fund ventures on the station have shown a 100% improvement in profitability. The station now has a bio-gas plant, the produce of which is used in Airmen's Mess. Through his continuous effort he has transformed this Station which used to be covered in undergrowth to a Station where the landscape is trimmed foliage with planted trees.

During his stewardship a Helicopter Unit, which is a lodger unit of the Station, improved their operational capability and overall service ability. The unit took part in numerous counter insurgency operations with outstanding alacrity due to his overall guidance.

His eye for detailed and expert supervision has helped in saving of substantial amount of money. He optimised the use of vehicles resulting in a saving of nearly 3000 Itrs of petrol every month. During his period of command the vehicle serviceability improved to 98% against an earlier 50%. In the field of signals equipment the serviceability has been increased to nearly 100%.

For distinguished service of high order the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Gp Capt Pradeep Kumar.

Group Captain Kuldip Singh Rana was commissioned on 19 December 1970, as a pilot in the flying branch. He has been Flight Commander (Flt Cdr) of two Canberra Squadrons (Sqns). The officer has also commanded a Canberra unit. He has 5000 hours of accident free flying.

Gp Capt KS Rana took over Command of No. 1 Delhi Air Sqn NCC on 31 August, 1992. Within a short period, using his immense motivational skills and personal example, he was able to substantially improve the administrative functions of the unit.

Gp Capt Rana was not satisfied with the quality and quantum of the gliding effort. He, therefore, completed his own glider conversion in the shortest possible time and got actively involved in the gliding training. Totally unmindful of his personal comfort and inconvenience, Gp Capt Rana plunged head long into the task of restoring the operational and administrative credibility of the unit. It is entirely due to his sustained hard work that the Sqn was able to achieve 4059 glider launches in 1992-93 and 4112 launches in 1993-94.

The officer also converted to microlight aircraft. During All India Vayu Sainik Camp (AIVSC) 93, flying from dawn to dusk, he completed air experience sorties of 500 cadets in seven days. During this period he also twice handled serious emergencies by landing the microlight ac safely after engine failure in the air. His unit was adjudged as the best Air Sqn in NCC at the Prime Minister's Rally 1995.

For distinguished service of high order the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Gp Capt Kuldip Singh Rana.

Gp Capt Vivek Kumar Chopra was commissioned as a Fighter Pilot in the Indian Air Force on 12 June 1971. His excellence in professionalism earned him the nomination for Qualified Flying Instructor (QFI) course at rather young age. Thereafter, he was selected for Fighter Combat Leader Course. To make full use of his experience, the officer was specially selected as Directing Staff at the Tactics and Combat Development and Training Establishment (TACDE). He also held the appointment of Flying Inspector at Directorate of Air Staff Inspection. Gp Capt Chopra commanded a MiG-21 BIS Fighter Squadron (Sqn) in Western Sector. He ensured a high standard of training and discipline and the Sqn displayed exceptional flight safety record during his command tenure. This can be seen from the facts that the Sqn was adjudged amongst the best two Sqns in Western Air Command in flight safety. All pilots were made fully operational and despite the shortage of spares the Sqn flew more than 6000 sorties during 1989-91, which was the highest flown by any fighter sqn in IAF.

Currently, Gp Capt Chopra is discharging the responsibilities of Deputy Director Personnel (Officers) at Air HQ. In dealing with the great variety of cases in this key assignment, Gp Capt Chopra has displayed dynamism and bold initiative. The most significant contribution by him has been in updating existing personnel policies, ushering in computerisation in the key areas of this Directorate and carrying out in-depth studies in the case of manpower planning and their training. With his dogged perseverance, analytical and incisive mental facilities, Gp Capt Chopra has been able to take all the matters pertaining to his work situation to their logical conclusion.

For distinguished service of high order the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Gp Capt Vivek Kumar Chopra.