Air Cmde Surjit Krishan Sharma (10829) AE (L) is posted as Air Officer Commanding, AMSE since 09 December 96.

While controlling one of the most prestigious organisations of Air Force, he has always given priority to the operational requirements of Air Defence, Radar and Communication units so as to ensure maximum users satisfaction.

The Air Officer volunteered to increase the task assigned for production year 97-98 by 12% and finally achieved about 14% more than the revised tasks. In addition to accepting and executing many challenging tasks under his efficient leadership, the unit carried out many innovations/modifications like repair of Klystrons of tropo equipment, Sigma milking equipment, aircraft fuel impurity testers, turbo chargers, besides setting up testing facilities for compressors and alternators. To substitute many short supplied imported items, he produced them indigenously at much lower cost. These not only resulted in substantial revenue saving last year but also reduced down period of the vital air defence equipment.

The Air Officer introduced various welfare measures such as provisioning clinical test facilities and equipment for physiotherapy in Station Sick Quarters, traffic training park and computer education in Air Force School, modern facilities in messes, billets and recreational hall etc. which have improved working and social environment.

Highly experienced in computer field, the Air Officer has held many important assignments in past 15 years. With his untiring efforts, time-bound objective and aim of excellence and standardisation, AMSE has been awarded ISO-9002 in Feb 97.

For his leadership, professionalism, and distinguished service of an exceptional order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Air Cmde SK Sharma.

Group Captain Parimal Banerjee (11159) AE (L) has been posted to Interim Test Range, Chandipur since April 1987, when the test range was in the formative stage. At this stage, the range was essentially in need of an officer/scientist who could meticulously plan, organise, guide and lead the scientific personnel in establishing of required facilities and test procedures. The task was time bound and related with readiness of indigenously developed missiles for test and evaluation trials. Group Capt Banerjee met this requirement exceedingly well and was awarded Commendation by the Scientific Advisor to Raksha Mantri in July 1989 in recognition of his significant contribution.

In the year 1993 a challenge was posed to this test range to create and establish facilities for 'Bomb Drop Trial' of Air Force aircraft, for which the government was spending millions of rupees every year in foreign exchange. Group Capt Banerjee, with his initiative and ingenuity, established full fledged facilities at the test range in coordination with the IAF and scientists, thus saving the country an infructuous and recurring expenditure.

For a Missile Test Range carrying out flight trials, giving the valuable data on the behaviour of missiles is of vital importance. This requires meticulous range safety & flight safety planning. Gp Capt Banerjee developed the competence of Interim Test Range for simulation runs of flight trajectory by detailed and meticulous planning of ground safety checks and control. Due to Gp Capt Banerjee's in depth preflight analysis of flight vehicle, constant vigil and meticulous operation planning and range safety measures, this test range has achieved an unparalleled, enviable record of "Nil Accident" till date, though more than two hundred fifty test and evaluation missions of indigenously developed weapon system have been carried out from this range.

Gp Capt Banerjee's constant pursuit for excellence and his relentless efforts have not only been a constant motivating factor for the range scientists but has also earned the test range its coveted reputation.

For his selfless and significant contribution made towards the formation, development and upgradation of this Test Range capability, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Gp Capt P Banerjee.

Group Captain Pulikkaparambil Kuruvilla Kuruvilla (12269) AE (L) took over as the Chief Engineering Officer of a fighter base on 17 June 1998. At that time the average serviceability of the fighter Squadrons on the base was low. There were 15 aircraft on AOG, and only 18 aircraft were flying worthy. Group Captain Kuruvilla adopted innovative means and methods to improve the serviceability. In addition to restructuring the centralized AOG section, he enforced a strict control on cannibalisation and spare consumption. With his excellent rapport with HAL he obtained timely assistance, wherever required. All these efforts paid high dividends and there was a significant improvement in the serviceability of aircraft. Due to these efforts, 28 fighter aircraft were kept fly worthy and the operational squadrons achieved an all time high of 750 flying hours in the month of March 98.

In addition, Group Captain Kuruvilla has analyzed many operational and flight safety hazards thoroughly and offered practical solutions. Inadvertent release of the brake parachute in the aircraft fleet was posing serious safety hazards. The fault was pinpointed to a rigging problem at fourth line. This study helped IAF to take the requisite corrective action. He also introduced other innovations and modifications like manufacturing of aircraft washing rigs, tractor modification as jungle-jims, fuel dump collecting rigs and conversion of a helicopter to semi VIP standards.

Under Group Captain PK Kuruvilla's leadership the Maintenance Branch of the base has been reoriented towards better work culture.

For his distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain PK Kuruvilla.

Group Captain Rajinder Kumar Mohan (12489) Lgs has been the Commanding Officer of an Equipment Depot since 11 March 1996.

The organisational set-up of the Depot was based on a manual and centralised pattern of provisioning. Storage and accounting could not cope with heavy commitments of the Base Repair Depots. It was a cause of concern since two projects for overhaul of a transport aircraft and aeroengines for a fighter aircraft were in progress. A third project for overhaul of aircraft support vehicles of Russian origin was also planned to be started from April 96.

Group Captain RK Mohan took command of the Depot at this critical juncture. He took no time in making a realistic and correct assessment of the situation and started the work to achieve the objective of timely completion of the projects, computerisation of the inventory and revision of the organisation as well as storage plan to make it more responsible to the needs of production staff at the Base Repair Depots. An exercise to create space in close proximity of the workshops was taken up. Approximately 15,000 types of spares/unservicable machinery were surveyed and disposed off after retrieval of all serviceable components, thus making 10,000 sq mtrs storage space, valued at approximately Rs 6 crores available for storage of current equipment. A new concept of Logistics Support Officer for each production line was introduced, which not only ensured total accountability for efficient support to the production line but also brought in tremendous involvement of Logistics personnel with the production, bridging the gap between production and Logistics Staff. Group Captain Mohan also accomplished computerisation of inventory and a net saving of approximately 30% amounting to Rs. 1 Crore, was achieved during the years 1996-97 and 1997-98, as compared to the previous year.

For an excellent sense of professionalism and management of both human and material resources, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain RK Mohan.

Group Captain Rakesh Yadav (12809) AE (M) has been posted as a Chief Engineering Officer of a major flying base since 30 October 1995.

Throughout his tenure the fighter serviceability has been maintained above the required figure, resulting in substantial increase in quantum of flying. During this period, the helicopter squadron was also reorganised with an efficient Tech Flight and the helicopter serviceability was sustained in the face of numerous constraints. Group Captain Yadav innovatively developed a Test Rig for cleaning and flow rate check of restrictors of aircraft main fuel pumps. His dedicated efforts resulted in significant impro vement in the quality of maintenance practices.

Group Captain R Yadav also improved serviceability and condition of refuellers, aircraft specialist vehicles, Safety vehicles and common user vehicles. His deep involvement led to improvisation of windshields of CFT and recovery of electro pneumatic valves locally. Additionally, a total saving of Rs 1.2 Lakhs was achieved by keeping all three crash fire tenders operationally fit.

For distinguished service of a high order and dedication to service, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Rakesh Yadav.

Group Captain K Rajaram (12933) Flying (Pilot) is the Commanding Officer of a frontline fighter base since 26 April 96. His tenure has been characterised by consistently high achievements of task, the highest standard of professionalism and by enduring high morale of personnel he commands.

During the Command's annual exercises his Station achieved every given task. In TRISHUL 97 his Base did the highest quantum of flying. All mobile units deployed and moved by night, achieving set time frames. Throughout he has strived to create an environment where there would be minimum barriers to operations, while maintaining the highest standard of flight safety. By painstaking attentiveness to detail he also ensured very high standards of serviceability of aircraft and equipment. The ATC radar set a record for serviceability in 96-97. Navigational aids, specialist vehicles and communications systems remained consistently operational and effective. In spite of the vintage and reduced numbers of aircraft, their availability was maintained by forward planning and follow up. Group Captain K Rajaram has continually strived for the most optimum combination of aesthetics and durability while raising infrastructure on his station. A long-term view has been the hallmark of his planning, no matter what the size of the project.

His style of leadership ensured that morale remained ever high and his men demonstrated abiding loyalty and self motivation. Group Captain Rajaram has always led by example, working extensive hours and demonstrating exacting standards of self-discipline, drive, enthusiasm and involvement in every activity on the station.

For his dynamic leadership, devotion to duty and distinguished service, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Rajaram.

Group Captain D Mathew (13039) Aeronautics Engineering (Electronics) has been on the posted strength of HQ Training Command since 02 April 96. He has been in charge of the transport, helicopter and Iskra fleets.

Group Captain D Mathew is a dynamic professional and a methodical officer. His exceptional planning skills have contributed towards maximising aircraft availability at Flying Training Schools. He has always planned ahead and projected in time the requirement of the fleets to Air HQ and to his superiors in Command HQ to ensure provisioning of spares and to meet other repair/servicing requirements. He has also been interacting directly with the BRDS, repair agencies and other formations to monitor progress and ensure that technical requirements of each aircraft are attended to. He is quick in decision making and does not allow any time to be lost. This has resulted in achieving a very high average serviceability for a number of fleets. The average rectification/inspection percentages were brought down significantly by effective monitoring and proper staggering, despite acute problems of spares in most of the fleets.

Group Captain D Mathew believes in good human values and inter personal relations. He is courteous in dealing with his colleagues and subordinates and very respectful towards every one. His sincerity, devotion to duty and hard work is worthy of emulation. He is continuously working towards attainment of higher goals.

For his devotion to duty, sincerity towards service and hard work, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain D Mathew.

Group Captain Jyoti Narayan Burma (13219) Adm/ATC has been the Director Operations (Air Traffic Services) at Air Headquarters since 31 December 1996.

The Officer has represented the Air Force ably at national and international fora. He is an active member of the high level review group for implementation of Future Air Navigation System (FANS) and the CivilMilitary Integration Team which has laid down the basis for future integration of civilmilitary aviation activity. He has represented the Air Force at a large number of seminars/ symposia like the "Asian Airports Meet 1997", "Free Flight" and "General Aviation" where he has eloquently projected the special requirements of military aviation. He is a member of the "Pavement Evaluation Committee" for RW resurfacing, the Committee for projecting a comprehensive report on the proposed Civil Aviation Policy, Civil Aviation Infrastructure Policy and amendments to the Aircrafts Act 1937, all of which will have very far reaching consequences. In addition, the officer has successfully projected the case for replacement of Ground Control Approach (GCA) systems, the induction into service of the Automated Digital Display and Control System for ATS management, provision of FAX/STD for all ATCs specially joint-user airfields. He has also been responsible for the rationalisation and revision of IAP 3309, Manual of ATS Services, which was issued on 01 January 98. Thus, Group Captain Burma has been instrumental in rationalising and improving the management of ATS in the IAF and has been deeply involved in upgrading and modernisation of ATS services to keep up with the requirements of the 21st century.

For his devotion to duty, professional knowledge of a very high order and hard work well above and beyond the call of duty, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award "Vishisht Seva Medal" to Group Captain Jyoti Narayan Burma.

Group Captain Ashok Kumar is posted as President of Central Airman Selection Board since 01 July 97. With his single minded devotion he has improved and stream lined within a short period the procedure of conducting recruitment rallies in remote and inaccessible areas. This has ensured equitable geographical representation of prospective candidates in the Indian Air Force. A total of 25 such rallies were conducted during the year 1998, attracting a large number of candidates from remote areas. Group Captain Ashok Kumar has also been instrumental in reviewing the existing policies and Air Force Orders on airman selection procedure. He also ensured an optimum utilisation of available resources to generate a large question papers bank.

Group Captain Ashok Kumar is an excellent manager of human resources and inspires a sense of satisfaction and commitment amongst personnel to achieve set targets.

For distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Ashok Kumar.

Group Captain Madhusudan Banerjee (13400) Flying (Pilot) was commissioned in the fighter steam of flying branch of the Indian Air Force on 21 June 1973. During his long service he has excelled in many fields. He has flown over 3500 hrs of accident-free flying on eight types of fighters. He is a QFI and a FCL who had the distinction of being on staff at TACDE. Group Captain M Banerjee successfully commanded a fighter squadron and is an Electronic Warfare expert.

Group Captain M Banerjee has been the Station Commander of an Air Defence Direction Centre (ADDC) since 11 Nov 96. With his personal involvement and dynamic leadership Group Captain M Banerjee has ensured high degree of operational readiness and serviceability of all technical assets of the Station. His inquisitive intellect and perseverance unravelled an intricate incident which resulted in identifying individuals who attempted sabotage on an aircraft. He has also paid special attention to security of this important ADDC. Through efforts of Station personnel, he effected substantial saving in expenditure for works services. His concern for the welfare of subordinates has been evident by many improvements in the messes, billets, shopping complex and by construction of additional sports facilities. This aspect has been especially recognised by the DASI, who have assessed the unit as average plus in March 1998. Group Captain M Banerjee has consistently displayed exemplary zeal, leadership and vision.

For a distinguished service of a high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain M Banerjee.

Group Captain CN Ranganath (13471) AE (L) has, been on the posted strength of ASTE since July 1993. He has been functioning as Chief Research and Project Officer (CRPO) since November 1996. Group Captain CN Ranganath, by extensive liaison with a number of design agencies, evolved new and fool proof procedural and testing methods for expeditious clearance of trial mods.

During the year 1997, ASTE celebrated its Silver Jubilee. Throughout the year a large number of functions and events were organised. Group Captain Ranganath was the Chief Coordinator for all these functions/ events. Skillful interaction between various civil agencies and providing a disciplined leadership to different organising committee members enabled Group Captain Ranganath in successfully organizing diverse events. It was a feather in the cap of this establishment that such events were conducted with enthusiasm and finesse.

The most prestigious event of the Silver Jubilee celebration was the National Seminar on Flight Testing organised by ASTE. Flight Test experts from the USA, UK, Europe, Russia and Israel participated along with Research and Development Scientists. The Chief Guest was the CAS and the seminar was presided over by Bharat Ratna Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. To conduct a seminar of this scope, particularly in an Air Force establishment called for original, meticulous planning and dedicated hard work. The fact that it was an outstanding success, was a tribute to the organisational skills of Group Captain Ranganath. The seminar was immensely successful in projecting the high standard of professionalism of the IAF in general and ASTE in particular amongst the aviation fraternity from both India and abroad.

For his significant contribution in organising the seminar on Flight Testing and for continued distinguished service of a high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain CN Ranganath.

Group Captain Jagan Nath Rampal (13700) AE (L), has been on the posted strength of Software Development Institute (SDI) since 24 March 1997. The Officer has had varied experience in communication and radar fields, aircrew duties as Flight Signaller and ELINT operator and in Electronic Warfare Planning. The officer has to his credit the preparation of the first CRC Communication network and technical analysis of the technologies to form the basis of communication network for CRC II.

Group Captain Rampal has also done significant work on software in the field of communication and EW. As Chief Software Engineer, the officer has exercised professional acumen and project management of exceptional order in supervising and steering all the projects at SDI. He has applied himself with utmost devotion in leading and directing the development activity for a number of major projects. In one of the EW projects, reverse engineering posed a challenge due to non availability of data from foreign vendors. This challenge was successfully met by Group Captain Rampal. Proven through user trials, this indigenisation is to effect enormous saving in foreign exchange by obviating the requirement of direct purchase from foreign vendors.

For his professional expertise, single minded devotion to duty and distinguished service, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Jagan Nath Rampal.

Group Captain Joseph Neri (13711) AE (L) has been the Chief Engineering Officer (CEO) of a premier fighter base since 30 June 97. In a short period of 10 months, the officer's dynamism and dedication to professional excellence has left an indelible mark on every field of maintenance at this Wing.

In terms of aircraft maintenance, he assumed charge as CEO under the most trying circumstances. He had to de-induct a fighter squadron, simultaneously inducting another squadron. He used his managerial and professional skills in motivating his maintenance team to carry out a record 13 engine changes in a short span of one month so that the Squadron could move on time to its new locations. Simultaneously he planned for smooth induction of the new fighter squadron. Throughout all this, he ensured that the serviceability of the other two fighter squadrons at base remained high. His involvement and dedication right from the start resulted in peaking of maintenance efficiency, as reflected by availability of 12 or more fighter aircraft with each Squadron for the entire duration of Ex-Trishul.

In recognition of his abilities, he was tasked by the AOC-in-C to set up a major Local Area Network encompassing all major sections and the squadrons. He ensured computer based functioning in a record time of 15 days and further consolidated the process by developing indigenous software for the management of flying and maintenance operations. Ceaselessly innovating, he motivated his maintenance team to produce an indigenously designed and fabricated Radio Remote Control for the Arrester Barrier and a Hydraulic Test Rig.

For his tireless devotion to duty and dedication to profession, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Group Captain J Neri.

A dedicated professional, Wing Commander PK Naithani has held ATC Category 'AYE' since November 86. His ability to appreciate the critical requirements of Air Traffic Services is of an exceptional order and is commendable. His vast experience and sound professional knowledge has considerably helped air traffic controllers in the field to improve their controlling standards and ability to identify and analyse critical air traffic situations. With his maturity and originality in thought process, the officer has significantly contributed to formulation, revision and updation of various SOPs and guidelines for the inspection of Air Traffic Services and conduct of cat boards for Controllers.

Displaying an all round involvement in operational activities of the Air Force, the officer has written service papers on issues related to ATC and other Op activities with an aim to improve the existing system. A paper on runway rehabilitation scheme would result in saving to the tune of a few crores. His qualities of positive attitude and devotion to duty have made him an asset to the Dte of Air Staff Inspection.

For his unflinching devotion to duty, dedication to service and professional competence, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander PK Naithani.

During his tenure at CH, Bangalore he brought up the Orthopaedic centre to a high standard with excellent surgical results. He started joint replacement surgeries for the first time in this hospital and brought in many other technological improvements.

As an outstanding sportsman he has represented IAF in football and Command level in squash. As officer-in-charge sports he developed many sports facilities for officers, men and their families. For disabled patients he took keen interest in modernising Hospital Physio Occupational Centre.

For distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander VK Gupta.

Wing Commander Ved Mitra Upadhyay (14055) Logistics has been on the posted strength of the Directorate of Maintenance Inspection since 09 September 1996 as one of the Deputy Directors.

Wing Commander VM Upadhyay has consistently shown a dynamic approach to inspection of all units especially, Equipment Depots, Air Store Parks, Air Force Liaison Establishments and Base Repair Depots. He has at once been incisive and proactive, bringing out important observations broken up into simple recommendations. His manner of conducting inspection and audit brings out a total commitment to work.

Wing Commander Upadhyay raised an important point on material management and spares provisioning during the quality audit of MIG-21 aircraft. During a presentation made in February 98 on the Quality Audit, the CAS appreciated the point and asked for follow up inspection and studies on several of the issues raised by him.

For his contribution towards improvement of technologistics activity in the IAF by innovated ideas and distinguished services of a high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander VM Upadhyay.

Immediately on posting as CEO, Wing Commander Bhattacharyya faced three major challenges. Firstly, 12 transport aircraft were inducted into the Station for a specific requirement for the first time in the IAF. Secondly, the entire responsibility of maintenance of transport aircraft was taken over from M/S Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. Both these tasks demanded methodical planning, and great degree of involvement. It also required continued hard work round the clock to train all newly inducted personnel, to streamline maintenance procedures and to meet the large flying task. In addition, as CEO, he was overall incharge of the entire technical management activities related to Aero-India '96 the first ever international air show organised by the Ministry of Defence, at this station. His meticulous planning professional excellence and organisational skill enabled this Station to meet all the challenges of the air show with great success.

Wing Commander T Bhattacharyya by his untiring efforts and total dedication has optimised all resources and succeeded in conducting all technical activities with limited number of subordinates. His total involvement has richly contributed in completing successive flying training courses without any accident or major incident. In addition, all the support services have been maintained in the finest possible state.

For having rendered distinguished service of a very high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander T. Bhattacharyya.

Wing Commander Partha Sarathi Roy (15097) Aeronautic Engineering (Electronics) was commissioned on 25 July 1977 in the Engineering Branch of the IAF. Since then he has done several important assignments and has excelled in various aspects of his profession. He was commended by AOCin-C Maintenance Command for computerisation of inventory management and network of micro computers at an Equipment Depot.

Wing Commander Roy is a thorough professional who is an expert Electronic Warfare Operator. He has flown over 2300 operational hours in hazardous conditions, during ELINT exercise. He was also instrumental in successfully developing operational site for a ground based ELINT unit. For his hard work and professionalism he has also been commended twice by the Chief of Air Staff.

Wing Commander Roy successfully commanded a vital Air Defence Communication Centre from 05 March 1996 to 30 April 1998. With his dynamic leadership Wing Commander Roy brought about significant and quantifiable all round improvements in the functioning of the Unit. His innovative modifications of technical facilities not only resulted in improved operational efficiency, but also affected a saving of 25% of technical manpower. Optimal and disciplined usage of resources, public as well as non public funds, have resulted in an annual saving of Rs. 5 lacs. Wing Commander Roy, by his leadership style and personal example, was able to bring in achievement orientation amongst the personnel under his command.

For his sustained hard work, devotion to duty and distinguished service of a very high order, the president is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander PS Roy.

Wing Commander Arup Kumar Basu (15320) Medical was commissioned on 18 March 1978 in the Medical Branch of the Indian Air Force. He is on the posted strength of Air Force Station New Delhi since 12 Feb 96 and has been performing the duties of Staff Surgeon.

After a short tenure as Squadron Medical Officer in a missile unit he was selected to undergo postgraduate training in MD (Medicine) at AFMC Pune, following which he held the prestigious post of Clinical Tutor at Command Hospital, Pune. Subsequently he has served with distinction as a Medical Specialist at various Air Force Hospitals. In 1990 the officer qualified to undergo the coveted super specialist training in Pulmonology at Pune University, where he topped the University to become the first Chest Physician in the IAF. Thereafter he was posted to Command Hospital Bangalore where he set up the Respiratory Medicine Centre. Wing Commander AK Basu excelled in all his assignments. He has received Commendation by CAS on two occasions, once in 1995 and again in 1997.

In his present capacity as Staff Surgeon, Wing Commander Basu has been highly meticulous in delivering health-care of the highest order. He has provided prompt and appropriate specialist as well as emergent medical care to a vast number of serving and retired Air Force personnel and their families. He has applied his organisational skill in successfully establishing specialist OPD services at NOIDA. Despite his heavy work schedule, the officer has utilised his superspecialty training to set up Respiratory Diseases OPD at Station Sick quarters at Air Force Station New Delhi and a Bronchoscopy Clinic at Super Specialty Veterans Hospital, Air Force. His excellent bedside manners, professional competence and helpful demeanour has been widely appreciated, bringing credit to the IAF Medical Services. Throughout, he has shown utmost dedication, skill and compassion beyond the call of normal duty.

For his distinguished service of exceptional order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Arup Kumar Basu.

Wing Commander Srikrishna (15427) Flying (Pilot) was commissioned in the fighter stream on 07 July 1978. He is fully operational on a fighter aircraft, a Qualified Flying Instructor and a graduate of the Defence Services Staff College.

Wing Commander Srikrishna was appointed as the Commanding Officer of a missile squadron on 26 Jun 95. Immediately on assuming command, Wing Commander Srikrishna involved himself with improving the operational efficiency, and work culture in his Unit. Under his guidance, the performance of the Unit has been exemplary. The Unit performed well in the annual command exercise for the second year in succession by meeting the deployment time frames, main tained high serviceability of equipment and undertook all the operational tasks with distinction.

Due to consistent and good performance, Wing Commander Srikrishna's Unit was earmarked, tested and cleared by the Director of Air Staff Inspection as the Range Duty Squadron for Guided Weapon Firing Range 97-98. The entire Squadron along with equipment had to move by two military special trains, for a period of four months. Through meticulous planning and coordination Wing Commander Srikrishna ensured that the move was conducted with clock work precision without any difficulty. His unit also created an all time record by firing all 16 missiles successfully, an achievement which bears testimony to the excellent technical and operational culture of the squadron under Wing Commander Srikrishna's command.

As an operationally oriented officer, Wing Commander Srikrishna involved himself with the station flying activities at the base for training of his crew. He has also been a source of consistent support and motivation to his technical staff for maintaining a very high serviceability state of all equipment.

For distinguished service of a very high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Srikrishna.

As a flying instructor Wing Commander Bhakoo was instrumental in carrying out trials for carriage of rocket pods and bomb racks on a trainer aircraft. As Station Flight Safety Officer, his personal attention to snag rectification and defect investigations ensured that the concept of safe flying was effectively implemented. His hard work, dedication and initiative were evident as his base became the first station to install anti bird measures like the Zon Gun, ahead of the 10 priority airfields.

The Officer is presently posted to a Command HQ. The officer played a pivotal role in setting up Local Area Network (LAN) and a Wide Area Network (WAN) in the Command HQ and its various stations using Tropo lines. He was personally involved in explaining the intricacies of the LAN & WAN to all the bases, convincing the non-believer into accepting computerisation. The proof was that the Command yearly exercise was run totally on the WAN and LANs with no use whatsoever of telephones between Command HQ and Stations. All air tasking orders, executive orders, reports, feed backs and returns were sent/received on this system. A very high degree of perseverance, hard work, ingenuity and dedication to duty was displayed by the officer in achieving a Computer Network System with near to nil resources.

The officer's experience in flying two types of fighter aircraft was called upon in the formulation of PART-III for the Command with emphasis on strike planning, tactical routing, formation of Tasking Orders, feedback reports and returns. The officer played a pivotal role in the installation of scanners at eight Air Force bases in the Command for the passage of information from the FR Sqns. This system proved to be most cost effective and efficient making the old Vicon system redundant.

In recognition of his hard work, dedication to duty, perseverance to achieve results and his contribution, to the Air Force, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Ashwani Bhakoo.

Wing Commander Sukhchain Singh (15808) Aeronautics Engineering (Electronics) has been posted at a major fighter base since 14 June 1996 as the Senior Engineer (Aircraft). During last nineteen years of his service he has had a rich experience of aircraft maintenance. He has been the STO of a fighter squadron.

He is a thorough professional and has in depth knowledge of all the aircraft systems and the associated support services. He has demonstrated exceptional ingenuity and initiative in the recovery of five fighter aircraft which were on AOG for more than two years. He also directed and motivated technicians to recover the long unserviceable testers and test benches. An aircraft simulator had been unserviceable for last two years. Though untrained and unfamiliar with the system, he motivated the repair team and recovered the Simulator in a record time of three months. This singular achievement has saved valuable foreign exchange and has made the Simulator available for operational training of the pilots.

Wing Commander Sukhchain Singh is also responsible for design and fabrication of an automatic voltage card for the Ground Power Unit of the aircraft. This hard to acquire component was locally manufactured and used to recover the unserviceable starting trolleys. Anti Collision Light of the aircraft were being despatched abroad for repair and were being, categorised non-repairable at the repair agency. He devised a completely new state of art electronic circuit to recover these assemblies. Ten such locally fabricated assemblies are flying on the aircraft. This has also saved valuable foreign exchange.

Wing Commander Sukhchain Singh is highly professional, deeply devoted to the cause of service and is an officer with a zeal to innovate. For his singular devotion to the service, exceptional professional knowledge and service of very high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Suckchain Singh.

Squadron Leader Manavendra Singh, Vir Chakra (16983) Flying (Pilot), has been on the posted strength of a helicopter unit as Flight Commander since 08 Apr 96. He is an accomplished pilot and a QFI with over 5300 hours of accident/incident free flying to his credit. He is fully operational in roles like Airborne Forward Air Controller, Anti Tank Guided Missile & holds the highest Category/ Instrument Ratings A/MG.

Squadron Leader Manavendra Singh has won international appreciation for the difficult evacuation of South Korean mountaineers from Gangotri glacier in September 95 and the rescue of an American mountaineer in October 96 from Nanda Devi Hills. In December 97 he was tasked to undertake casualty evacuation mission from high altitude helipad in snowy and adverse weather conditions. In spite of marginal weather he led a two aircraft mission and evacuated 17 ITBP personnel to a lower helipad. However, during this, the aircraft got caught in a severe snow storm and he spent the night at high altitude along with the casualties. Next day he evacuated all casualties to lower altitude. During the mission he displayed a very high degree of dedication and professionalism. The timely rescue not only saved many lives but also elevated the image of the Service.

In the absence of a regular CO he held the command of the unit from 05 August 1997 to 23 November 1997. During this period the unit flew the highest number of hours in a month. Unit also carried out three VIP and one four ac VVIP commitment for HM the King of Nepal with utmost safety and professionalism. With his personal interaction with technical staff, the unit maintained over 90% serviceability. His personal example and close supervision have ensured accident/ incident free record along with very high operational status for the unit.

For his exceptional flying skills, exemplary devotion to duty, professional excellence and dedication the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Sqn Leader Manavendra Singh.

The Officer was commissioned on 28 May 83 in the Administrative Branch of the Indian Air force and has held field appointments such as Station Adjutant in a Signals Unit, Deputy C Adm O of a Wing and a Missile Unit and has had a varied and vast exposure in all facets of activities of an Air Force Station. In all his assignments, Squadron Leader Manoj Kumar Dixit has performed exceedingly well. From 1993 to 1995, the officer served with distinction as SO to AOsC-in-C, SWAC and WAC and the VCAS. He was commended by the CAS in 1995. Since January 1996 the officer has been functioning as the Staff Officer to the Chief of the Air Staff. The officer's performance in undertaking the tasks assigned to him has been of a very high order. The heavy pressure of work and the rigid time frames to be met, did not deter the officer from completing the assigned tasks in a highly meticulous manner. His output of work has always been of the highest order and he has always kept service requirements above personal needs. Squadron Leader Dixit is primarily responsible for all follow up actions of the CAS decisions and directives, day to day functioning of the office and official engagements of the CAS. The officer has collated necessary inputs and coordinated the functioning of the office administration in an excellent manner. His background knowledge and professional competence relating to various issues is praiseworthy. He has displayed, zeal, professional competence and dedication to service which go far beyond the call of normal duty.

For his unstinted dedication and outstanding performance, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Squadron Leader Manoj Kumar Dixit.

Squadron Leader Arvinder Singh Grover (17504) Administration was commissioned into the Administration Branch of the IAF on 08 June 1984. He has held different field level appointments involving administration and security at various Air Force formations and establishments and has also performed instructional duties at Administrative Training Institute. He was specifically selected to take up the challenging appointment as Security Officer to the Chief of the Air Staff, with effect from 21 June 1993, keeping in view his overall record of service and excellent merit in the Commando courses with the Army and NSG. Subsequently with effect from 01 January 1996, he took over additional responsibilities as Staff Officer to the CAS while continuing to look after all security matters.

Squadron Leader Arvinder Singh Grover has always applied himself diligently to the task assigned to him. He had successfully provided an exceptionally high level of security to the CAS and his family members. His meticulous attention to details has ensured that necessary arrangements and security of VVIPs/VIPs have always been of an exceptional order.

Squadron Leader Arvinder Singh Grover's leadership qualities have been of an exceptional order. The fact that men under his command have consistently performed in a highly praiseworthy manner, speaks of his capacity to achieve optimum results by motivating his subordinates through personal example and conduct. He has displayed zeal, professional competence and dedication to service which go far beyond the call of normal duty. A resultoriented officer, he had consistently shown grit and determination to meet the challenging goals of his mission. By virtue of his dedication to duty, he has been commended twice by the AosC-in-C and twice by the CAS.

In recognition of his outstanding performance, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Meal' to Squadron Leader Arvinder Singh Grover.

On 09 Jun 98, cyclone had hit the station with the wind speed exceeding 200 kms/h. Met forecast of a likely cyclone was received a day earlier and WO Gaya Prasad motivated

his team of airmen to take all precautions including shifting of stores to minimize the damage to stores.

On the day of the cyclone most of the covered plinths, Nissan huts and security wall on one side of bomb dump collapsed. Immediately on subsiding of the cyclone, at about 1300 hrs, WO Gaya Prasad took stock of the situation from the point of view of safety and security of missile explosives and ammunition. Since the demolition stores building was in the vicinity of collapsed boundary wall, WO Gaya Prasad, with his team of airmen shifted demolition stores to a safer place. The Nissan hut, where small arms and ammunition were stored had also collapsed. WO Gaya Prasad shifted all small ammunition weighing about 20 tonnes to Station Armoury within one day despite limited manpower.

Warrant Officer Gaya Prasad, with his experience and leadership retrieved the war stores and prevented further damage/ deterioration. He opened war stores, drained out the water and made them safe. Thus, with the help of a handful of airmen of the bomb dump, he saved explosive stores worth several hundred crores of rupees.

For his dedication, untiring enthusiasm, foresight, professional skill and total involvement, the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to WO Gaya Prasad.

248569 Junior Warrant Officer Dulal Chand Adhikari Workshop Fitter (B) is on the posted strength of a Repair and Servicing Unit since July 1994 and has been working as incharge of both Workshop and Ground Equipment Bay.

JWO DC Adhikari is an intelligent, sincere, disciplined and effective supervisor with high level of acumen. He has rich experience in BRDs and has been consistently performing the task assigned in a most professional and competent manner.

Due to acute shortage of carpenter tradesmen, JWO Adhikari mastered himself in glider repairs and has also taken keen interest in the structural repair of two types of trainer aircraft and helicopters. By his significant contribution the unit could also undertake major aircraft repair tasks resulting in significant savings of revenue for the IAF. He is also assigned with the additional task of maintenance of sports and welfare facilities at Air Force Station, Hakimpet and has been discharging this responsibility in an exceptional manner by working beyond the working hours.

During the salvage of a crashed Avro aircraft near Pamur village, Prakasham District, Andhra Pradesh, JWO DC Adhikari led the team from the front and motivated the people to execute the salvage operation within shortest possible time.

For his consistent devotion to duty, professional competence and distinguished service, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to JWO DC Adhikari.

Air Commodore Thekkekara Thomas Job (11507) AE (M) is commanding a premier Base Repair Depot (BRD) for fighter aircraft.

The BRD was assigned the task of overhaul of a front line fighter aircraft. Due to disintegration of erstwhile USSR the project had got delayed. Spares were not forthcoming. There was considerable delay in arrival of equipment and specialists. Consequently, only one aircraft could be overhauled in 1997-98. A large number of aircraft started falling due for overhaul. Under the leadership of Air Cmde Job a life extension study was successfully carried out involving specialists/ scientists from Indian Air Force, Hindustan Aeronautical Limited, NAL, IGCAR and RCMA (N). Consequently, the aircraft could be given a longer lease of life before overhaul, thereby preventing the possibility of sending the aircraft abroad for overhaul. This saved crores in foreign exchange.

Extension of life of aircraft was a shortterm solution. Therefore, Air Cmde Job took on the uphill task of fully setting up the overhaul facilities to enhance production of aircraft. He motivated a team of officers and men to install test equipment and rigs without the help of Russian Specialists. Consequently, the requirement for Russian Specialists reduced. He guided another group to successfully indigenise and produce spares. Consequently, six aircraft were overhauled in 1998-99. He simultaneously devoted considerable time and energy in improving quality of life in the Depot by introduction of a number of welfare measures. Under his able leadership, the Depot has won awards for best BRD, best MI Room and best Nursery School in Maintenance Command as well as best Nursery School in IAF.

For his exemplary vision, dedication and professional competence, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Air Commodore Thekkekara Thomas Job.

Group Captain Manovinder Shamsher Bahadur Singh Jauhar (12201) F (P) was commissioned in the Flying Branch of the IAF on 20 Dec 69. He was inducted in the fighter stream and has over 3600 hrs of flying to his credit. He is a qualified flying instructor (QFI), has done the Staff Course and is a post graduate in the Defence Studies. He has also served as a QFI in Iraq. In 1979 he converted to Canberra and took active part in Operation Meghdoot and Operation Pawan. He commanded the Canberra Strategic Reconnaissance Squadron between 1990-92.

Between 1993-95 he served as Chief Operations Officer at AF Station Leh. Despite the constraints of manpower and resources, he supervised and controlled the safe conduct of all air operations for Op Meghdoot in the high altitude and hostile environment. He also set up and activated the BADC for Leh sector.

In Dec 1995 Gp Capt Jauhar was posted as Joint Director Weapons at Air Headquarters with the additional responsibility of coordination all tech and logistics function of weapons planning for the IAF. The revision of IAF's operational philosophy and induction of advanced weapon systems required a reworking of War Waging Reserves for weapons for the IAF. Gp. Capt Jauhar quickly gained in-depth knowledge of the weapon systems, involved himself with various trials and evaluations and completed the above task. He liaised with various defence development and production agencies to initiate indegenisation and achieve prioritised production for IAF requirements. Along with his dedicated team of officers he also identified various shortcomings in our weapon holdings and the storage facilities and initiated remedial actions. Stores like LGBs and R-73E missiles were made operational at the earliest.

With the commencement of Op Safed Sagar the awareness of above weapon limitation helped in ensuring that only the correct and complete weapons reached the field formations. Along with his team of officers and airmen, Gp Capt Jauhar ensured that weapon requirements, weapon logistics and weapon data was processed round the clock at Air Headquarters and weapon stocking as per field requirements completed in the shortest time.

For his distinguished service of a very high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Manovinder Shamsher Bahadur Singh Jauhar.

Group Captain Nairessery Sekharan Raveendran (12614) AE (L) has been the Commanding Officer of Guided Weapons Training Institute (GWTI) since Sep 97. Ever since assuming command he has exhibited creativity in improving the training and the standard of output at this Institute.

With initiative and planning, Gp Capt Raveendran has set up a Technology Cell to identify methods of indigenisation of spares. This is crucial as no indigenous repair facilities exist for this equipment. This Cell has developed an important device for CVs resulting in saving of Rs. 4 lakhs till date and is likely to accrue further savings.

Under his dynamic guidance, the GWTI, which is mainly a training institute, had repaired/modified complicated PCBs and channel selectors of CVs, which had prevented many of them from being rendered MOG. A radar alignment vehicle of a missile Squadron, which had been unserviceable for about 20 months due to lack of publications on its hydraulic system, was made serviceable. The importance of this rectification lies in the fact that the radars and computers of the CVs are required to be calibrated with an alignment vehicle prior to operational deployment. He was also responsible for resurrecting a PU-12 Missile Control Post vehicle which was U/S for more than three years, by indegenisation of spares and imaginative modification. The repairs have caused huge savings in foreign exchange as well as reduced the down time of the equipment.

Gp Capt Raveendran has made many innovations in the sphere of training also. Till recently the training material supplied to the trainees were direct translations of Russian publications into English, which did not take into consideration our own experience in the field. He brought out a total of 26 précis, which are simpler and better. All the syllabii were revised and training aids and standards were improved. Because of these improvements, the DASI graded the GWTI as above average, in Jul 98.

In recognition of his foresight, imagination, dedication and contribution to the quality of maintenance at the field level, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Nairessery Sekharan Raveendran.

Group Captain Vijay Shanker Kapani (12766) F (P) was commissioned on 12 Jun 1971 in fighter stream and is fully qualified on MiG-21 variants with 2800 hrs of accident free flying. He is an A-2 QFI as well as Fighter Combat Leader. He is posted as Chief Operations Officer of a base, which is unique in its operations requirement and has the distinction of operating fighter, Tpt, Hepters and guided weapon elements. He has shouldered this immense responsibility with total commitment, foresight and constructive planning spanning over two years.

This base by virtue of being a nodal point for complete air maintenance of the northern sector demanded expert management of meagre resources. His rational application of experience and effective operational handling yielded commendable results in achieving 100% air maintenance tasks during 1997-98 and 1998-99. VIP commitments, national flypasts and specific operational task assigned to the Station at short notice were also commendably executed under his able leadership. Because of his sincerity, dedication and flawless guidance this base could achieve all operational tasks during his tenure.

Understanding and far sightedness of Gp Capt VS Kapani to appreciate operational requirements provided him the impetus to rejuvenate the loop dispersal area, which housed 17 Blast Pens. This loop dispersal and assets worth crores were lying disused since last ten years and were in a dilapidated condition. Through personal example, grit, perseverance and time bound programs, he managed to retrieve these irreplaceable assets without any MES expenditure, thus affecting savings of crores to the exchequer. The area is now fully fit for fighter operations.

He is also responsible for heralding computer awareness at this station. His personal involvement and dedication has resulted in establishing of LAN and associated training including repair of large number computers which demanded extremely long and sustained quality work, much beyond the normal call of duties.

For his exemplary dedication total commitment and self-less contribution to service, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Vijay Shanker Kapani.

Group Captain Randhir Pratap (13146) F (P) was commissioned as a Fighter Pilot in the Flying Branch on 24 Jan 72. He has held the appointments of Station Commander, Air Force Station Memora, and Commanding Officer of a Mig-21 Bis Squadron, Chief Flying Instructor, Fighter Training Wing and OPS- IB at Command HQ. He has undergone Fighter Combat Leader Course, Flying Instructor Course, Defence Services Staff College, Higher Command Course, Instrument Rating Instructor & Examiner and Sector Commanders Course. He was awarded Commendation by Chief of the Air Staff in 1989 and 1995.

Gp Capt Randhir Pratap has been working as the Command Air Defence Officer since his posting to No. 1 Air Defence Control Center, Air Force on 12 Apr 97. His charter of duties in the appointment required him to discharge staff functions in respect of all the Air Defence Radars, variety of surface to air missiles and mobile observation units in Western Air Command. After taking over as Command Air Defence Officer at this Centre, Gp Capt Pratap showed remarkable understanding of his job, encompassing all aspects of Air Defence Operations. These included exploiting the capabilities of each system, their deployment, employment in assigned roles, resolving problems and conduct of exercises. He displayed 'Above Average' professional knowledge and allied skills in providing expert advice and guidance to all the units at all times. He has a highly analytical mind and staff work of a very high standard. His briefs and presentations on Air Defence matters are clear, concise and powerful.

Selfless service and ability to work beyond the routine call of duty makes him a valuable asset. He is highly innovative and accepts each new thought and project as a challenge and has the capacity to show results of his efforts. He is capable of taking independent decisions which together with a high level of honesty and integrity, makes him a potential leader of the future. He has very strong loyalty and integrity towards the Service.

For exceptional devotion to duty, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Randhir Pratap.

Group Captain Virender Nath Kalia (13568) F (P) was commissioned as a fighter pilot in the Flying Branch on 22 Dec 73. He has been on the posted strength of Air HQ since April 98.

He has over 3000 hrs of accident free fighter flying. He has commanded a fighter Squadron. During his command this Squadron was awarded the runners-up trophy for the best fighter Squadron in the Command. He was earlier commended by the CAS in 1990 while he as the Flight Commander of a fighter Squadron.

In May 99 when Op Safed Sager was launched, Gp Capt Kalia who was Joint Director Personnel Officer (JDPO) was made responsible for ensuring smooth induction of officers for augmentation in the Op Units. This involved meticulous planning and close interaction with other branches at Air Headquarters. He cheerfully worked long hours and made effective use of computer media to provide details of augmentation plan to the concerned commands. This ensured that all Op commitments of manpower were met in time with no slip up whatsoever. During his tenure as JDPO he was also given the task of reviewing personnel policies concerning officers. Using his professional knowledge and experience, he was able to effectively undertake and complete all tasks assigned to him.

Gp Capt Kalia has an excellent track record in the 26 years spent in the Indian Air Force. He is a dedicated and devoted officer who has always placed Service before self. His devotion to duty and hard work has been a source of inspiration to his juniors and has always been appreciated by the superiors.

For excellent dedicated hard work and devotion to duty, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Virender Nath Kalia.

Group Captain Jankiramiah Arunachalam (13725) Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics) was commissioned into the Engineering Branch of the IAF on 08 July 74. During his career, he has worked in Communications, Signal Intelligence and Radars of various types. He is qualified on Mirage 2000. He has commanded a Wireless Experimental Unit.

Group Captain Arunachalam is posted to a flying base since 02 Mar 98 as Chief Engineering Officer. On assuming charge he recognised that the fighter fleets at his base were facing serious problems in serviceability due to a combination of management anomalies and acute shortage of critical spares. Galvanising his maintenance team into action, the officer adopted many innovative procedures to reduce down time of the limited number of available aircraft. Some of these are:- a. Design and fabrication of engine-stands for storage of Cat D aero engines, thus sparing the engine trolleys for servicing/ snag rectification. b. Fabrication of a de-fuelling rig for faster contamination-free de-fuelling of aircraft, in place of the laborious gravity method, an innovation adopted since then by other Stations. c. Innovative use of Cat D engines to undertake 200/400 hrs servicing and subsequent replacement of the engine with a new one, thus cutting down the downtime of the aircraft. d. Fabrication of testing facilities for Signal Processor, Doppler Navigator and elements of the Flight Control System.

In addition, Group Captain Arunachalam designed and developed a software for compilation of snag-data and construction of a snag-analysis tree, which has been effectively used to hasten snag rectification. The maintenance of another type of fighter aircraft, with its ageing problems, proved to be a more daunting task to the Group Captain, who once again had to fall back on ingenuity and innovation to overcome the hurdles. Among other things, repairs undertaken locally on the Cockpit Pressurization and Canopy Locking Systems are examples of the officer's initiative and drive.

For distinguished service of a high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Jankiramiah Arunachalam.

For his contribution to studies related to low intensity conflict and for his writing on Role of Air Power in low intensity conflict, Gp Capt PK Roy became the first Service officer to receive the prestigious 'Om Satya Mehra Award'. He took over the command of an FBSU in Northern sector on 16 Jun 97. In pursuance of the task of air maintenance assigned to the FBSU, the officer has been instrumental in motivating and training young pilots to continue their hard work in most inclement weather. Under his able guidance, for the first time six barrels of 105-mm field guns were successfully paradropped on the Siachen glacier from a Mi-17 helicopter.

Utilizing his profound ingenuity and tenacity of purpose he was instrumental in fabricating, modifying and improvising various equipment. Some of his improvisations include loading trolley for Mi-17 helicopter, windsock from scrap and steering arm for Mi-17 helicopter. In running the station, Gp Capt PK Roy left no stone unturned in improving welfare of his personnel. He set up a model airmen institute, bakery, poultry, vegetable farm, cinema and a computer literacy center at the unit. He has been able to maintain the high morale of his men despite the difficult terrain and in unfriendly weather. The NPFs have shown considerable growth under his supervision. During his command, the station was declared best FBSU an achievement that can truly be attributed to his unrelenting efforts. By dint of his hard work, he maintained his station in a high state of operational preparedness.

Gp Capt PK Roy has displayed a high degree of maturity, dynamism and initiative throughout his service career. For his devotion to duty and exemplary hard work, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Gp Capt PK Roy.

Wing Commander Naresh Kumar Kapila (13638) Adm/FC has been on the posted strength of Dte of Ops (AD) Air HQ since May 97. The Officer is a Cat A Fighter Controller and a graduate of DSSC Wellington. The officer has been very actively involved in development, integration, evaluation and operationalisation of various Air Defence operation systems during the last two decades. He has made highly significant and vital contributions to automation of our AD environment. The officer has successfully developed and proved three AD operational software packages of Automatic Data Handling System, which are in operational use in the IAF.

With his vast experience as Controller and his involvement in the development of computerised air defence systems the officer was specially posted to Low Level Radar Networking Group (LRNG) in 1992. In spite of being the only Fighter Controller for most of the period in the project, Wg Cdr Kapila carried out all operational activities of the project admirably and with utmost dedica tion. The first auto CRC has been a pioneering project as a concept in conduct of integrated opera tions in the IAF. The officer has also been involved in evaluation and induction of INDRA-I and INDRA-II Radars in the Air Force. His critical analysis and concrete sug gestions resulted in a number of improvements in the radar design by LRDE. The officer's contribution in this regard has been the appreciation placed on record by Director LRDE.

During the last two years, the officer was involved in induction of new Radars and Data Handling Systems and his vast knowledge in this field contributed to crystallisation of the AD philosophy. The officer has worked extremely hard to meet deadlines for drawing up a number of operational requirements for induction of futuristic systems such as Low Level Transportable Radar (LLTRs), AEROSTATS and AWACS-I.

For distinguished service of a high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wg Cdr Naresh Kumar Kapila.

Wing Commander Venkitaraman Subramanian (13673) Logistics was posted at a Base Repair Depot since 11 Apr 98 as Chief Logistics Officer. During his service career he has held various important appointments viz. SLO, Air Force Station, Yelahanka, OC 24 Equipment Depot (Dett), Senior Instructor Logistics at Air Force Academy and Instructor with Nigerian Air Force.

On taking over as Chief Logistics Officer of a BRD, which overhauls front line fighter aircraft, he carried out an analysis of the problem areas that existed in providing spares to the production line. A complete reorganisation of the Logistics Support Wing was carried out bringing all provisioning activities together under one head and all stores management under another head. Key Result Areas after this were the centralization of Stock Record Section and the formulation of the BRD AOG cell. Immediate positive results were seen in the optimum utilisation of items found common between the weapon systems and elimination of duplicate provisioning action. The long term benefits that have accrued to the IAF are a 25% reduction in the quantum of spares that would be procured from foreign sources through the provisioning reviews of 1998 and resultant savings of FOREX. Centralised AOG management resulted in drastic reduction of outstanding AOG demand.

The BRD was entrusted with the enhanced task of production of a frontline fighter aircraft in 1998-99 to avoid sending these aircraft abroad for overhaul. Critical spares, which were to be received from abroad, had not materialised and the impending urgency was to procure these from HAL and other various sources. Continuous personal monitoring, adoption of ingenious methods and total involvement in the task achievement were the highlights of the officer's contribution.

For his distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Venkitaraman Subramanian.

Wing Commander Navin Rattan (14242) Med was commissioned in the Medical Branch on 31 Aug 75. He is a post-graduate in Aerospace Medicine as well as in Internal Medicine. As a Specialist in Aerospace Medicine, he has held important appointments at Air Force Central Medical Establishment, Air Force Academy and the Institute of Aero space Medicine (IAM). He is also Postgraduate Examiner of Bangalore University. His research efforts have contributed in retrieval of a large number of medically grounded aircrew with ECG abnormality and development of an indigenous air sickness control programme wherein 60% cases of trainee aircrew with air sickness are being prevented from being wasted out. At IAM he excelled by restoring the serviceability of the long unserviceable Decompression Chamber the Institute effecting savings to the tune of over Rupees 35 Lakhs. His original and innovative research work in the field of flying clothing and oxygen systems was the pioneering effort towards indigeni sation, development and testing of the Life Support System of the Light Combatant Aircraft, a programme of national importance.

Wing Commander N Rattan, as Senior Medical Officer of Air Force Station, Gwalior has converted the conventional primary care medical establishment of Station Sick Quarters to a modern mini hospital. Medicare has been taken to the door step by establishing two new sub MI rooms in the domestic camps. He has, through foresight, vision and perseverance, created a new modern Family Welfare Centre from an old dilapidated building which now houses a Family Clinic, Dental Clinic, modern Physiotherapy Center, a Marriage-Counseling Cell and a Child Guidance and Development Clinic. The changes have resulted in lowering hospitalisation of Air Force personnel by over 30% resulting in saving of over 5000 manhours in a year. He has provided a new dimension to preventive health by writing booklets on Child Health, Development and Small Family Norms and has also initiated innovative preventive health programme including Diabetes, Blood Pressure, Cancer Detection and Village Health Camps.

For distinguished service of a high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Navin Rattan.

Wing Commander Davinder Pal Singh (14475) Adm was commissioned on 16 Jun 76. During his service, he has held various field and staff appointments such as Station Adjutant, Security Officer, OC Provost Unit, S Adm O and Deputy Provost Marshal. For his unique distinctions he was commended by AOA and CAS in 1987 and 1993.

In his appointment as DPM Wg Cdr DP Singh handled administrative and functional aspects of twenty-nine Provost and Security units, co-ordinated ceremonial/Provost commitments, formulated security policies and monitored their implementation. With his vast experience, analytical approach and perseverance he reviewed all the policy instructions and processed cases with Govt for modernising security equipment and vehicles in the Air Force. He was instrumental for induction of modern security equipment and vehicles in the Air Force.

The officer also undertook the task of revision of all the AFOs on Security, Police duties, Identity, Cards, Dog Squads and policy on PAD/GD, Aid to Civil Power and training of IAF/P, opening the AF Dog school and obtaining Govt sanction to raise additional 60 dog squads and scaling of additional pair of uniform for the IAF/P.

During his tenures in field units and in the Provost Dte he provided renewed vibrancy in the functioning of Provost and Security activity through modernization schemes.

For his vision, sustained hard work and distinguished service of a high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander DP Singh.

Wing Commander Chittranjan Mohanty (15084) AE (L) is on the posted strength of a Base Repair Depot (BRD) since 22 May 95 and is presently working as Senior Engineer (Calibration, Computerisation and Indigenisation).

Prior to the present posting, Wg Cdr Mohanty has been involved in a number of important modifications/developments on Canberra, MiG-23, MiG-27 and MiG-29 aircraft. He had also set up overhaul facilities for over 200 electronic aggregates at the BRD and Electronic Service Centre at the operating base. On being posted to the BRD on completion of his training in France on Mirage engines, he was instrumental in installation and commissioning of FPI cabin, X-ray and Auto-Tig welding plants.

Considering his potential for innovative work at 402 Air Force Station he was assigned the responsibility of indigenisation of airborne components mainly of AN-32 aircraft and R-29 aero engines. He has done a commendable job in the field of indigenisation. During the past three years he has indigenised over 200 components effecting a saving of about Rs. six crores in foreign exchange. He also headed Maintenance Command Study Team, which compiled a compendium of rubber seals used on all Russian aircraft fleet that is being used as a systematization for their indigenisation. In field of calibration, he rationalised the calibration periodicity of 24 types of gauges, accepted by Air HQ resulting in greater availability of these gauges. He was also instrumental in getting the Master Calibration Centre accredited to NABL during this period.

For his dedication, sincerity and great contribution in the field of repair, modification, calibration, computerization and indigenisation, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander C Mohanty.

Wing Commander Gokul Nath (15156) Med commissioned in Oct 77, obtained his MD (Gen Med) from AFMC Pune in 1982. Recognised early for his professional competence, he was selected for further specialisation in Nephrology at a time when service hospitals were setting up Dialysis Units all over the country. On his acquiring DM degree in Nephorology from renowned CMC, Vellore, he was posted to Air Force Command Hospital Bangalore in 1984. Since then he has devoted himself to develop a Nephrology Centre of excellence at CHAFB. The Haemodialysis Unit started by him has gradually built up adequate functional capacity to treat all referrals from Service hospitals far and wide.

His increasing clientele of end stage renal diseases, his concern for suffering patients and his desire to provide a more lasting cure prompted him to take up a case for transplant centre at CHAFB. Having overcome the initial reluctance from his superiors, with single minded determination, persuasion, attention to every detail of infrastructure requirements, he succeeded in getting the license for renal transplantation in a record time in Jun 98. The number of transplants performed have since steadily increased and now CHAFB has become one of the most favoured centres for Dialysis as well as renal transplant in service.

For this singular achievement of far reaching benefit to Defence personnel and for distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Gokul Nath.

Wing Commander Vireshwar Dundappa Galagali (15272) AE (L) is on the posted strength of Air Headquarters with effect from 10 Jul 95 and has been functioning as Deputy Director, Engg Mirage (Technical).

At the Directorate, he has been the key person responsible to establish the Depot Level Maintenance of fighter aircraft. Through his technical competence, clear foresightedness and managerial skill in handling techno-logistics issues related to import and indigenous procurement of various industrial facilities, he could provide the required impetus in executing a Rs 200 Cr. Project and ensured the project milestones were adhered to. This enabled the BRD to commence overhaul of the engine modules at an early date resulting in regular savings of nearly Rs. 15 crore annually. Another notable contribution of the officer has been in the Critical Design Review of Lightening Laser Designation Pod to adapt it on a fighter aircraft at Israel. The system has been made operational and has proved to be very effective in operations.

Wing Commander VD Galagali has been actively involved in the maintenance of a fighter aircraft fleet for more than a decade. He has an extra ordinary capacity for hard work and the determination to see things through irrespective of the odds. Earlier in his career he was posted at a radar unit and had been involved in developing real time data handling system for AD radars. He has also been the Chief Instructor at Mirage Type Training School.

For rendering distinguished service of a high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wg Cdr VD Galagali.

Wing Commander Harbhajan Singh is presently the Chief Engineering Officer (CEO) of an Air Force Station in the Eastern Sector. This base undertakes intensive flying in support of Army, Paramilitary Forces and civilian population of North East States. The average task is of the order of 4,500 hours of flying to deliver 5,500 mt of load. Operations of such magnitude require harmonised maintenance support to ensure sustained high serviceability. Wing Commander Harbhajan Singh addressed this requirement with utmos t sincerity and professional competence. Using exceptional skills, he re-organised the Central Repair and Salvaging Section into an integrated semi-centralised production system. This resulted in an accelerated monthly turn over of seven to eight aircrafts from second line servicing and in faster build-ups of aircraft on ground. He instituted an effective maintenance safety programme. On three occasions the two helicopter units at this Base achieved 100% serviceability.

The admirable maintenance support enabled the station to achieve a record 5,200 hours of flying and air lift 6,200 mt. The airfield safety vehicles, navigational aids and communication equipment at his Base and at all advance landing grounds were maintained at near 100% serviceability. He was instrumental in fabrication of helicopter loading trolleys, which proved to be force multipliers at the forward maintenance bases.

For his distinguished service of a high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Harbhajan Singh.

The officer is innovative and an excellent professional. In Nov 97 a fighter fleet faced a major problem of bulging of No. 2 fuel tank and fuel leak in the air intake region. Over a period, more and more aircraft were affected with similar problems. Neither repair scheme nor the technology to undertake the repair was available in India and Russians had quoted an exorbitant cost to undertake this task. During discussions with Russians, Sqn Ldr Kuldeep Sharma used his engineering skill and sound knowledge to extract maximum possible information regarding materials, tools and the procedures to be used to undertake suitable repair on fuel tanks. He then left no stone unturned to develop the repair technology indigenously. He actively associated himself with HAL (ND) design department in preparation of repair drawings and subsequently made detailed procedures to undertake the repair.

A team of technicians pooled from the BRD and HAL (ND) headed by Sqn Ldr Kuldeep Sharma was formed to undertake the repair on five seriously affected aircraft. Numerous difficulties in terms of availability of materials, spares and tooling were faced by the team. Due to undaunting efforts put in by Sqn Leader Kuldeep Sharma, fuel tank repair on all five aircraft could be completed by Dec 98.

For his distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Sqn Ldr Kuldeep Sharma.

Squadron Leader Shaji Jacob (16652) Administration has been on the posted strength of the Directorate of Intelligence, Air HQ (VB) since 19 Jun 95. He has been working in the Photo Interpretation Section as Assistant Director (PI) since 19 Jun 96.

In early May 99 at the start of the Kargil operation very little information was available about the presence of the enemy in terms of depth and extent of coverage. To obtain this information numerous sorties had to be mounted both for the Army and for the Air Force Planning Staff. Because of the peculiarity of the operations conducted in the Kargil sector, Air HQ undertook the task of photo interpretation of the tactical area of operations, consisting of mainly bunkers and Administration camps. The Photo Interpretation Section of Air HQ that was normally geared to interpret strategic targets was hard put to tackle these small tactical targets which required quite different techniques of analysis. There was also the problem of interpreting a large number of demands from Jaguar Long Range Serial Photography, Canberra and MiG-21 oblique as well as MiG-25 vertical high level photography. Analysis of LORAP photography was particularly demanding because of the differing scales involved.

It is to the credit of Squadron Leader S Jacob that throughout the entire period of operations he worked non-stop seven days a week to produce imagery so vitally needed for the planners. His undivided attention and professional competence contributed significantly in the identification and location of some very important targets from a mass of film. These targets were subsequently engaged by the Air Force with telling effect. The Army too got some very good imagery in time to aid their operations. The effort of this officer was specially significant during the period beginning May to end May where there was only one civilian Photo Interpreter officer to share the load. It was only after this period that other officers were identified and attached to Air HQ.

For his professional competence, dedication and devotion to duty, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Squadron Leader S Jacob.

Squadron Leader Praveen Kumar S Patil (16981) Logistics, a Graduate of National Defence Academy was originally commissioned as a Fighter Pilot on 29 Dec 82. He has 1730 hrs of accident free flying on MiG-21 variants to his credit. He has now been placed in permanent low medical category due to a medical disorder. After a very successful tenure as SFSIO of Air Force Station, Sirsa he has been taken on the posted strength of a Command HQ with effect from 08 Feb 99 and is functioning as Project Leader TADIDS (Tactical Air Defence Integrated Display System).

He was entrusted with the task of developing TADIDS nearly two years ago. This was a complex and sensitive task involving Air Defence of the Nation and the solutions were not simple. The officer burnt the mid night oil and succeeded in developing TADIDS at no cost to the exchequer by intelligently integrating the existing hardware and resources available with the Command. TADIDS was thus born and turned out to be a futuristic, world class, windows based, multimedia, user friendly, near real time, interactive and secured Internet software that the IAF was desperately looking for all these years.

TADIDS was then successfully field tested in 1998 in several exercises. The officer single handedly conducted the required on the job training on installation and operation of TADIDS in units involved in these exercise. On breakout of hostilities in the Kargil Sector, the officer was directed at short notice to make TADIDS operational for the Northern Sector, which he successfully accomplished within the available resources and time frame.

For his successful innovative work and dedication to duty, the Hon'ble President is please to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Squadron Leader Praveen S Patil.

Squadron Leader Kirshna Iyengar Ravi (17674) AE (M) has been on the posted strength of a Fighter Squadron since 29 May 99. The officer reported on posting three days after the commencement of Op 'Safed Sagar' and had a very difficult responsibility of discharging the duties of Senior Technical Officer of a premier Fighter Squadron.

During Op 'Safed Sagar' Squadron Leader Ravi played a key role in effectively managing the aircraft of both the Mirage Squadrons at the parent base, for the training of augmented aircrew and conduct of new weapon trials. Even with the meagre resources left behind the officer effectively formed core groups and motivated the team to undertake a varied range of operations including the tasks done for the first time on the fleet. He managed his responsibility exceptionally well.

With an aim to enhance the Op capability of a fighter aircraft, trials for adaptation of 1000 Ibs Conventional Bombs, Pave Way & Griffin Laser Kits and the Lightening Laser Pod were undertaken at base. This posed a challenge for Squadron Leader Ravi as it involved modifications of pylons, aircraft wiring and armament loading/serving proce dures. The officer dedicatedly worked for prolonged hours and led his team by setting an example himself and achieved the results both at base as well as during live trials at Pokharan Range.

Squadron Leader Ravi also had added responsibility to undertake servicing on the Detachment Aircraft, periodically visiting the base as per the maintenance stagger plan. With this exceptional managerial skills and leadership qualities he could flawlessly complete the task in record timeframe.

For distinguished service of a high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Sqn Leader KI Ravi.

Sqn Leader Prathap had already proved his impeccable credentials in the field during the period June 1973 to September 1995. At a relatively lower rank of Flt Lt he managed the Technical Flight at a fighter base with rare efficiency and dedication up to excellent standard. While achieving this he displayed commendable professional skill and mature administrative ability. He managed to instill a sense of purpose, feeling of camaraderie and sound work culture amongst the Flight Technicians.

Sqn Leader Prathap always strives for professional excellence. At Air HQ, he has consistently tried to make his staff work flawless. Sqn Ldr Prathap has patiently and carefully collected data on spares, overhaul procedures, production constraints and the defects of R-29 engines. These engines are of vital importance for the ground attack fleet. His meticulous and painstaking staff work has facilitated finalisation of important contracts for spares and overhaul. Quick to realise the importance of defect investigations reports and servicing bulletins, he managed to implement recommendations for these reports through a strict follow-up. When the Kargil conflict erupted in May 1999, a few fighter aircraft and helicopters were required to be urgently modified for RWR and Chaff/ IR flare dispensers. The task involved new modifications, demodifications and shifting of the modification equipment and modification team between various bases. Squadron Leader Prathap, having already kept the tract of modifications and the mod kits, could avoid the possible confusion and ensured smooth mod/demod process.

For this steadfast perseverance based on logical plans, devotion to profession, sincerity of purpose and quest for professional excellence, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Sqn Ldr D Prathap.

Squadron Leader Ramesh Jotirao Oulkar (18630) Adm/ATC was commissioned in Dec 1986.

Squadron Leader Oulkar is a highly motivated officer who willingly and enthusiastically shoulders additional responsibilities. His exceptional qualities were identified in streamlining the system of work maintaining good rapport with all for execution of policies/ Instructions, maintenance of discipline in general and keen interest to solve the problems. The Subroto Park has undergone noticeable transformation in terms of quality of output, which has been possible due to his dynamism, hard work, intelligent use of resources and above all his capability to put a plan into practice. Under his stewardship the quality of life for personnel in respect of water, sewage, electricity and maintenance of SMQ's and surroundings was enhanced many-fold. Also his personal attention to improve Airmen Mess, Billets and Bar has been well noticeable. Clearing the vegetation and beautification on Arjan Path and area outside the fencing of Subroto Park was possible due to his keen interest. His involvement in pursuing the various works services for beautification of subzi mandi, CSD shopping complex, canteen and creating parking lanes at public places have been highly appreciable. His active interest in the enhancement of security awareness among the personnel will immensely help to improve the security environment of Subroto Park. Squadron Leader Oulkar has displayed high degree of professionalism and competence. He contributed towards the realignment of ATS routes and local-flying areas of airbases under WAC to ensure safer flying enviornment to civil flights and provide more tactical freedom to military traffic. His efforts on updating WAN and data analysis is praiseworthy.

Through hard work and personnel management of high order he has been able to imbibe in his subordinates a zeal for commitment to task and obtain their willing support. This has been amply manifested in accomplishment of time bound tasks through teamwork, individual commitment and motivation. The superlative performance, discipline, reliability, integrity, loyalty, maturity and dedication to duty of the officer have always been an asset to the Air Force.

In recognition of his all round excellence, his contribution to the AF in the field and for his professional skill, exceptional devotion to duty, leadership, initiative, humane approach and for distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Sqn Ldr RJ Oulkar.

Squadron Leader Rajesh Purohit (19170) F (P) is on the posted strength of a Air Force Station since 01 Jul 96. While on attachment of FIS, AF on 21 Apr 99 he was authorised to fly a sortie on HPT32 aircraft with Sqn Leader Milind Kumar (20479) F (P) as Co-Pilot. After take off, while climbing through 450 m, he heard a loud bang and experienced loss of power. Correctly analysing that the engine had failed and realising that he was below the minimum bail out height, he picked up a field for forced landing and turned immediately towards it. The approach to the field had obstructions in the form of tall trees and a boundary wall. Squadron Leader R Purohit maneuvered the aircraft towards the only gap available between the trees and boundary wall and successfully force landed the aircraft. During the landing roll he maneuvered clear of obstructions and managed to stop with only with left tyre deflated.

Squadron Leader R Purohit handled the emergency in a cool and professional manner displaying clarity of thought. His precise and correct actions in the face of a grave emergency resulted in the aircraft being landed safely. This would help the investigating agencies to ascertain the exact cause of engine failure. Squadron Leader R Purohit saved the aircraft from what could have been a serious accident.

For his professionalism and distinguished service, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Squadron Leader R Purohit.