Wg Cdr Atul Chandra Barua was on the posted strength of one of the Wings of Air Force from 13 Jun 88 to 13 Dec 90 in the appointment of Senior Engineer (Mechanical).

Wg Cdr Barua designed and manufactured an import substitute for the transportation of Bombs from Bomb Dump to Squadron dispersal. He also designed transportation cum handling trolley for the R-60 Missile which is extensively used by the MiG Squadron of that base. The officer is also responsible for designing and fabrication of a lifting tackle and indigenisation of belting tool for MiG aircraft. He has also designed and fabricated the cocking tool for the newly introduced Retarder Tail Unit and a torque spanner for R-60 Missile loading. The other innovative achievements of Wg Cdr Barua are repair and overhaul of imported ground power unit (Houchin) of Jaguar aircraft through indigenous sources and rebuilding of the perished wooden KRAZ cabin with an all metal structure in the Station Workshop.

The single most notable achievement of Wg Cdr Barua has been the planning and execution of demolition of an unsafe Bomb on 13 Jan 90, inside the airfield. The unsafe Bomb was lying with the Wing for over two years, the solution for which was not easily forthcoming from the manufacturers. The Bomb had become dangerously unsafe. It was therefore essential to demolish the Bomb at its location as there was a very high risk of its exploding in case it was moved. Wg Cdr Barua studied the bomb detonation mechanism, the pros and cons of demolition at site, the risks and precautions involved for transferring the bomb outside the Bomb Dump and demolishing the same at a suitable site inside the airfield. Through the officer's excellent professionalism, planning, guidance and attention to the minute details, the demolition task was successfully accomplished.

For selfless dedication to work, professional competence and astute planning, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wg Cdr AC Barua.

Wg Cdr Om Krishan Dogra is on the posted strength of Air Headquarters (VB) since April 1987 and is presently working as Deputy Director in the Directorate of Maintenance Plans and Quality Assurance. Pursuant to the recommendations of Special Committee on Flight Safety in 1982, Government accepted the need for upgrading and restructuring the technical type-training in IAF and the Directorate of Maintenance Plans and Quality Assurance at Air Headquarters was made responsible for this special task.

With virtually no resources at his disposal, Wg Cdr Dogra set about the task of establishing these Schools/Units with great enthusiasm and perseverence. With his ability of planning, execution and rich experience, he compiled a detailed Project Report encompassing the entire activities ranging from site formulation of syllabi for each course, procurement of training aids and provision of requisite facilities.

The first TETTRA School for providing training on MiG-23 and MiG-27 aircraft commenced functioning with full infra-structure from Jul 87, within four months after taking up this task by Wg Cdr Dogra. Eight more TETTRA Schools and seven TTCs were also established well within the stipulated period.

There was no type training facility in the IAF for Mi-35/Mi-26 helicopters and Dornier aircraft and some highly sophisticated Air Armament Stores. To meet the type training needs of the aircraft, AE officers and technicians were sent abroad periodically. Wg Cdr Dogra, realising the resource constraints, especially in foreign exchange, succeeded in getting Government Sanction for opening of training units for these weapon systems. With the opening of these Type Training Schools, not only the precious FFE have been saved but also the availability of type trained personnel has considerably increased.

For his high sense of commitment, personal involvement, professional excellence, result oriented approach and outstanding ability, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wg Cdr OK Dogra.

Wg Cdr Onkar Bhattacharya is on the posted strength of one of the Base Repair Depots of Air Force since Oct 88 and has been working as officer incharge production of Main Hanga Line since Jan 89. He took over as Senior Production Engineer (Mi-8) with effect from 26 Jun 90.

In the task year 1989-90, Wg Cdr Bhattacharya was responsible for completing overhaul of Mi-8 helicopters. Despite posting out of a large number of trained technicians and all round shortage of spares, he took up the challenge and infused in his men the required sense of purpose and motivated them to successfully complete the task for the year on time. In the year 1990-91, the officer had to contend with the task of modifying five Mi-8 helicopters to the executive/VIP version in addition to the annual task. By streamlining production process and introducing a large number of innovations, the officer reduced the time for overhaul from 142 days to 119 days. To overcome the almost non-existent supply of hoses from abroad, he arranged for production of hoses at HAL (ND) by arranging for use of end fitting retrieved from old hoses and testing for serviceability on the free length available at the HAL Division.

He also was instrumental in getting the Durite hoses developed through indigenous source. For completing the task, he worked for extended hours almost throughout the year unmindful of personal commitments. For four months of the task year, aeroengines and Main Gear Box were not available for fitment on the helicopter. The officer overcame this hurdle by cannibalising these items from the produced helicopters to the next in line. His ingenuity and exceptional professional ability enabled the Depot to complete the task of overhaul and modification of helicopters in time.

For his unflinching devotion to duty, exceptional professional ability and astute leadership, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wg Cdr Onkar Bhattacharya.

Sqn Ldr IS Lamba has been discharging the duties of the Asst Director Adventure in the Dte of Adventure of Air Headquarters.

Sqn Ldr Lamba learnt equestrian sports in NDA and excelled in the field. In 1991, he became second best rider in the country. He has been participating in all the National Horse Shows and has always been in the first three positions. At Bareilly NEC in 1990, he was adjudged the second best rider of the championship. In the 1991, Bareilly Horse Show, Sqn Ldr Lamba was first in 'ONE DAY EVENT', first in 'OPEN SHOW JUMPING' and was adjudged the 'BEST RIDER OF THE EVENT'. He has been the back bone of the Air Force Equestrian Team since 1985 and with his personal devotion and hard work, Air Force has been doing well at the national level in this field. He has trained 10 Air Force personnel in Endurance Riding and 3 Air Force personnel in Show Jumping, as a result of which 5 fully qualified Air Force personnel are available to participate in any national competition.

In addition, Sqn Ldr Lamba was also assigned with the responsibilities of Para Sailing. In this sport the officer was one of the three officers initially qualified to conduct parasailing. Due to his devotion and hard work in this field Air Force has been able to conduct this adventure sport locally in Air Force units.

For his sustained hard work and exceptional devotion and excellent performance in Equestrian Sports, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr IS Lamba.

Sqn Ldr Tushar Kanti Rath was commissioned in December 1972. He commenced his service career as an Air Traffic Control Officer. In October 1975 he completed Para jump Instructors Course at PTS, with distinction. Thereafter, he was an instructor at PTS for over seven years. During the tenure he logged more than 700 jumps including about 100 at night. He is among the very few who have recorded more than 200 free falls.

Sqn Ldr Rath has held numerous Instructional appointments. Notable amongst these are appointments viz. the Chief Instructor at Air Force School of Physical Fitness and Directing Staff at the Ground Duties Officer Training Faculty at Air Force Academy.

His administrative acumen and conceptual vision were high lighted during his tenure as the Senior Administrative Officer at No. 1 Staging Post, Car Nicobar in 1986-87 when he was instrumental in initiating work services of approximately 2 crores for Fighter Base Support Units in Car Nicobar and Great Nicobar.

Sqn Ldr Rath has also undergone the Basic Mountaineering Course at Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, Uttar Kashi, the advance Mountaineering Course at Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Darjeeling and the Basic Winter Warfare Course at High Altitude Warfare School, Gulmarg. He was a member of the successful Air Force Mountaineering Expedition to BHARTE KUNTE and Skiing Expedition to KEDAR DOME in 1978 and earned commendation from the Chief of the Air Staff on 15 Aug 78. He was also a member of the successful Japanese Expedition to NUN in 1983 and was nominated leader of the Air Force Expedition planned in 1985.

For his determination, professionalism and distinguished service the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr TK Rath.

Sqn Ldr Satish Kumar Midha is on the posted strength of one of the Signal Units of Air Force and is attached to TACDE since May 89. During his tenure at TACDE, Sqn Ldr Midha worked as the staff in charge of training of Master Fighter Controllers (MFC). New concept of operational combat training for fighter controllers of the IAF was initiated in Aug 89 and the task assigned to TACDE. The officer performed his task with the highest degree of dedication and professionalism.

The task called for formalising training patterns and SOPs for operational control of interceptor aircraft. Trials were conducted to arrive at the optimum format of operational training. The curriculum was finalised after extensive deliberations. The sincerity of purpose, meticulous planning and determined approach, displayed by Squadron Leader Midha, led to the successful completion of the task.

He was also instrumental in disseminating operational solutions to the operators in the field through the conduct of capsules and orientation courses. This task was carried out with the highest degree of zeal and enthusiasm.

For having worked with selfless devotion and dedication during his stay at TACDE, and for displaying professional skill of the highest order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr SK Midha.

Sqn Ldr Janmejay Jaywant Deshmukh was commissioned in Admin Branch of the Air Force on 11 Jul 75. Throughout his service the officer has made remarkable contribution in the various staff appointments he held at different levels. In recognition of his outstanding abilities, the officer was appointed as Staff Officer to an Air Officer. He served as Staff Officer to Senior Air Staff Officer Central Air Command, Air Officer-in-Charge Personnel at Air Headquarters, AOC-in-C, Central Air Command and finally the Vice Chief of Air Staff at Air Headquarters.

During his various assignments as Staff Officer, the officer has undoubtedly proved himself as an outstanding manager of the Secretariat supporting the functions of the vital office. He has displayed an uncanny ability to undertake tasks which were of utmost importance and of crucial consequences.

The officer has displayed remarkable maturity in the correct prioritisation of tasks before the Air Officer as well as coordination among various agencies in completion of the desired task. In addition, the officer has displayed excellent qualities of manmanagement and inter-personnel relationship. During the course of his duties, the officer had to interact with a large number of senior officers wherein with his courteous and tactful approach he was able to establish a rapport with the ultimate objective of task accomplishment. As the officer-in-charge of the VCAS Secretariat, the officer meticulously organised information which facilitated smooth decision making.

For his professional ability, unflinching loyalty and devotion to duty of an exceptional order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr JJ Deshmukh.

Sqn Ldr Radha Krishnan Ayilliath was commissioned in the Air Force in Jan 76 and is presently posted at Dte of Trg at Air Headquarters.

During the last two years the major aim of training has been the improvement in quality within optimum costs and time-frame. Sqn Ldr Ayilliath's specific responsibilities in this area pertain to technical training of airmen of all trades together with the demand to increase numbers under training within existing resources.

He co-ordinated inputs from Hq Training Command, Specialist Directorates and prepared effective practical plan to meet the requirement of the Air Force. Training flowcharts for the next five years were prepared, including training wastages, projected requirements/deficiencies in specific trades.

Dove-tailing with the above, were plans to expand and rationalise the All Through Technical Training (ATT) Scheme for the seven aircraft trades without break of trained manpower to operational units. Sqn Ldr Ayilliath's analysis and knowledge of the training needs resulted in the saving of 24 weeks of training and a saving of Rs 2.6 crores per year in the All Through Technical Training.

Setting up an economic plan for future technical training of Airmen, and its modernisation, demanded changes in syllabus and scales of training aids to support it. This was achieved by Sqn Ldr Ayilliath and 12 training aid scales successfully processed with the Government.

For his professional competence, foresight and exceptional devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr R K Ayilliath.

Sqn Ldr Dharma Vir Verma was commissioned on 16 Jun 76. He was posted to Dte. of Edn, Air HQ on 08 Dec 86 as Project Officer of the Air Force Golden Jubilee Auditorium.

Right from the start, he applied himself wholeheartedly and energetically to the task and has worked relentlessly till the completion of the project. With the help of only one Cpl Ach/GD, he has handled the entire range of tasks of the project involving coordination with various construction agencies monitoring the actual construction tasks, arranging procurement of materials, scrutinising the bills, maintaining correspondence etc. During occasions when the project bogged down due to lack of availability of material or other reasons, he used his resourcefulness in getting around the problems and through persistent follow up he was able to get the project moving. He has given accurate and timely advice regarding decisions to be taken to speed up the project. He has shown tremendous initiative, drive and imagination in anticipating problems and getting ready with possible solutions so that the project could progress without hold up. It is because of his single minded devotion, organising capacity, ability to innovate and unrelenting hard work that the project could be completed successfully. Throughout his tenure, he worked much beyond the call of duty regardless of personal comfort with the sole objective of completion of the tasks entrusted to him.

For his exceptional devotion to duty, organising capacity and relentless hard work towards successful completion of the Air Force Auditorium, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr DV Verma.

Sqn Ldr RN Gaur is on the posted strength of an AF Station since May 1988. He is employed as Oi/c CR&SS of AN-32 and AVRO aircraft and as Oi/c Radio, Radar and Inst Labs for Avro and AN-32 aircraft. Sqn Ldr Gaur, though being an officer of the AE (L) branch has evinced keen interest in the activities of the AE (M) branch.

Sqn Ldr Gaur apart from achieving fine standards in I and II line servicing on AN-32 aircraft has also applied his technical knowledge in tackling certain problem areas in AN-32 aircraft systems, like flight data recording. Sqn Ldr Gaur indigenised the entire decoding process based on personnel Computer system with an inter-face unit to extract data from storage unit at any desired data segment, a "Commercial TV" for display and a magnetic tape cartridge for storing data of system storage unit. This system is particularly useful in a training institution for aircrew, where the pupil pilots can be debriefed and shown the vital parameters immediately after the sortie. The indigenised system resulted in a saving of Rs. two crores in foreign exchange.

Sqn Ldr Gaur modified the Attitude Interface Unit by doing away with the unreliable VG 208 and used the AGB-3K, stand by artificial horizon of Russian origin which is never used in the aircraft in its place. To match the nature of input required by the American equipment with that of the output of AGB-3K of Russian origin, an interface unit with necessary integrated circuit was developed by Sqn Ldr Gaur with the help of HAL Flight Test Centre. This interface Unit has been successfully tried on two AN-32 ac and is found to be reliable. This modification has resulted in tremendous saving in Foreign Exchange and has provided a reliable aid to negotiate weather.

For his exceptional enthusiasm, dedication to duty and positive contribution in development work resulting in considerable saving in foreign exchange, import substitution and indigenisation of technical system, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr RN Gaur.

MWO Gnana Narayana Tammalapalli has been on the posted strength of a Helicopter Squadron since 01 Dec 85.

His vast knowledge and technical skill has been the bed rock and sheet anchor of the Squadron's maintenance activities. His personal involvement in every facet of technical activity, from formulating servicing schedules of the newly inducted aircraft and rectifying snags, has enhanced the operational efficiency of the Squadron. However, he is a strict disciplinarian in the execution of the task and does not compromise on standards and laid down procedures.

In 1986 when this Squadron was still in its infancy and was be-set with innumerable teething problems, he, drawing from his skill, experience and knowledge, was instrumental in providing able guidance in overcoming these problems and formulating safe procedures. His very presence in the Daily Servicing Section and Repair and Servicing Section itself was a motivating factor.

In the years that followed, this Squadron was involved in a number of exercises and operations that posed a multitude of technical problems. But his innovation, zest, drive and attention to details has helped the Squadron in a good stead and maintain an accident/ incident free record while maintaining its operational efficiency. The erection and deerection schedules of Mi-25 at Bombay brought out his unflagging zeal, initiative and exemplary professional skill. The erection and induction of Mi-35 to the AF Inventory at Bombay in April 1990, was yet another feather in his cap.

MWO Narayana has excelled not only in his professional duties but has also proved indispensable whenever the need to organise various functions has arisen.

For his professional excellence, exemplary sense of devotion to duty and single minded purpose of task accomplishment, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to MWO TG Narayana.

Sgt Reddy PVCS is on the posted strength of an AF Station wef 03 Dec 84 and presently working at Navigation and Signals School.

In order to modernise the training aids, the station decided to modernise the DR Navigation Trainer at Navigation and Signals School. Development of an electrically operated Navigation Synthetic Trainer was considered. At this juncture, Sgt Reddy suggested the design of a microprocessor based Navigation Simulator with automated instrument operation. He developed and successfully demonstrated automated operation of Flight Instruments using borrowed microprocessor and other necessary components. The Station Commander, considering his extraordinary professional skills appointed him as Project Engineer.

Inspite of the tight schedule and very limited finance, Sgt Reddy with his undeterred will-power and hard work completed the first phase on schedule. On many occasions he worked for 18 to 20 hours a day. The progress made in the project was demonstrated to AOC-in-C, TC, and Air Officer-in-Charge Personnel, Air HQ, Sgt Reddy's personal contribution towards the success of the project was highly appreciated by them.

Subsequently, stepper motors were introduced, as driving elements for all instruments of the Simulator. This, being a new technology, involved major changes in hardware. Inspite of the lack of know how and technical infrastructure for this purpose, Sgt Reddy never lost his enthusiasm. By effectively utilising his technical skills, he successfully accomplished the task. His acumen and technical innovativeness resulted in several advantages to the service in terms of saving of money and time in this project.

Sgt Reddy through diligence, determination and ability to grasp complex technical requirements and then providing solutions has made outstanding contributions towards the rapid and satisfactory progress of this project.

For his professional competence, unique capability for innovativeness, sustained hard work and selfless devotion to the service, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Sgt Reddy PVCS.