Air Marshal Palamadai Muthuswamy Ramachandran, was commissioned in the IAF on the 8th October, 1955. During his long and distinguished career, he has held a large number of key command and staff appointments which included the command of a frontline fighter Squadron, Director of Personnel (Officers) at Air HQ and Senior Air Staff Officer of an operational command.

Applying his excellent professional expertise to real problems, the Air Officer has been displaying rare dynamism and courage throughout his career. During the Goa Operations in 1961, he carried out a bold attack and destroyed enemy patrol boats carrying explosives. He was awarded Shaurya Chakra for gallantry.

An alumnus of the prestigious National Defence College, the Air Officer made a distinguished contribution to the concepts of inter-service planning when posted to Defence Planning Staff in the rank of Air Vice Marshal in 1983. Later, as Director of Personnel (Officers) at Air HQ, the Air Officer introduced innovative promotion schemes such as personal ranks of Gp Capt which came at a time when the service was beset with serious promotional bottlenecks.

On being appointed Senior Air Staff Officer of South Western Air Command in 1990 in the rank of Air Marshal, the Air Officer provided the much needed foresight, conceptual framework and administrative dynamism for a large number of operational exercises conducted in his Command. In his last appointment of Vice Chief of Air Staff, the Air Officer used his vast professional expertise, operational experience and ability for finding out solutions to complex problems.

Air Marshal Palamadai Muthuswamy Ramachandran, AVSM, SC, VM, has, thus, rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Ravinder Math Bhardwaj was commissioned in the Flying Branch of the IAF on 08 Oct 55. During his long and distinguished career he has held a number of key Command and Staff appointments with distinction which included command of a fighter Squadron, a frontline fighter base and Senior Air Staff Officer of an Air Force Command.

Commencing his career as a fighter pilot, Air Marshal RN Bhardwaj rapidly established a reputation of a thorough professional. His single minded and decisive approach to military flying became abundantly clear during the lndo-Pak War In 1971. He led a number of missions on heavily defended ground targets of the enemy and caused heavy damage. On 10th Dec 1971 while leading a ground support mission in the Chhamb area, he shot down an enemy Sabre aircraft. For his role in the 1971 Indo-Pak war he was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra for conspicuous gallantry.

A qualified flying instructor of repute he was placed in Command of a Fighter Squadron in 1974. The Air Officer moulded his squadron into a formidable fighting unit through ceaseless effort close supervision and dedicated involvement with men and material.

An alumnus of the prestigious National Defence College the Air Officer was assigned the Command of a key Air Force Base in the Central Sector in 1982. Displaying rare acumen for management the Air Officer was able to build up a military complex which would be ready to deliver results at short notice despite resource-crunch.

Although the Air Officer has an enviable record of operational service, he was equally at ease in training roles. He held a distinguished tenure as a flying instructor with the Iraqi Air Force. Further, he displayed remarkable flair for management of training needs of the armed forces when he was posted as the Deputy Commandant at National Defence Academy in 1984.

In addition to the operational and training roles the Air Officer's contribution in the staff appointments has both a blend of rich field experience and outstanding ability for clear thinking. As Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Inspection) at Air HQ the Air Officer was able to identify weak areas of field units and suggest corrective measures. Later, as Assistant Chief of Air Staff (Plans), the Air Officer played a crucial role in the formulation of new plans and completing on going ones.

Bringing to bear his vast experience, the Air Officer completed a very successful tenure as Senior Air Staff Officer at HQ Training Command in the rank of Air Marshal. The Air Marshal continues to contribute to the operational effectiveness of the Air Force in his present appointment of Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Southern Air Command.

Air Marshal Ravinder Math Bhardwaj, MVC, VM has rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal PJ Jayakumar, AVSM (5037) Plying (Pilot) was commissioned in the IAF on 14 Jan 56 as a fighter pilot. Throughout his long and distinguished career he has held a variety of Command and Staff appointments of crucial importance. These included Command of a fighter Squadron and of an extremely sensitive fighter base, Director Air Defence and Air Officer-in-Charge Personnel at Air HQ and Senior Air Staff Officer at HQ Western Air Command. He was awarded the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in 1988.

A graduate of Defence Services Staff College, Wellington, the Air Officer Commanded a frontline fighter Squadron in 1974. Later, he was placed in Command of a very sensitive base at the border in 1982. During his Command additional operational units were inducted at his base. Displaying remarkable management abilities the Air Officer was able to make newly inducted units fully operational in the shortest possible time despite severe constraints of resources.

The Air Officer was appointed Commandant of College of Air Warfare in 1908 in the rank of Air Vice Marshal. The Air Officer provided a new dimension to the doctrines of Air Warfare through innovative thinking and guidance.

In addition to holding Command appointments, the Air Officer held several Staff appointments of crucial importance with equal ease and aplomb. As the Joint Director Personnel (Officer) at Air HQ in 1977, the Air Officer was instrumental, in formulating a new promotion policy and the appraisal system which has been the hallmark of manpower management of the officer Cadre of the IAF ever since. Further, the Air Officer displayed rare conceptual thinking, flair for meticulous planning and dedicated effort as the Director, Joint Operations. A graduate of the Command and General Staff Course of Voroshilov Academy of the USSR, the Air Officer was appointed Asst Chief of Air Staff (Inspection) in 1989. In this assignment the Air Officer was able to identify the crucial areas for improvement of a large number of operational units of the IAF through close monitoring and attention for details. Appointed Air Officer-in-Charge Personnel in the rank of Air Marshal in 1990, the Air Officer was able to establish an optimum interface between operational requirements and man-power policies.

As Senior Air Staff Officer of Western Air Command the Air Officer provided a fresh insight into the operational plans and their modes of implementation. The Air Officer presently holds the vital appointment of Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Central Air Command. In this appointment the Air Officer brings to bear his vast operational and Staff experience to maintain this Command in the peak operational readiness.

Air Marshal Pondicherry Jayarao Jayakumar AVSM has thus rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Dushyant Singh was commissioned in the IAF on the 14th January, 1956. In his service career, the Air Officer held a number of command and staff appointments with distinction which include command of the crucial Strategic Reconnaissance Squadron, a fighter base, AOC Jammu & Kashmir and Senior Air Staff Officer of an Air Force Command.

Air Marshal Singh commanded a key training institution and later a vital Air Force Fighter Base which housed a mix of many types of aircraft as well as firing range. Displaying his usual determination, he was able to bring up his base to a high level of operational preparedness. Later, he was placed in command of J&K area in the rank of Air Vice Marshal during the height of Siachen crisis. On this assignment, he displayed rare resoluteness of purpose and brought glory to the IAF in the air support role in conjunction with the Army. The Air Officer continues to serve the IAF as the Air Officer Commanding-inChief of the Eastern Command. In a short period since his taking over the Command, he was able to appreciate the priorities of the Govt. and dovetail them with the Command plans. Sensing the need to bring economy in Govt. expenditure, he was able to reduce the man power by 3000 without sacrificing the operational commitment of his command.

Air Marshal Dushyant Singh, VM, VSM has, thus, rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.

Air Marshal Prabhat Kumar Varma was commissioned in the Indian Air Force on 6th November, 1954. In his long and distinguished career, he has held several key command and staff appointments with distinction. These include command of a Combat Squadron, Director of Personnel (Officers) and Director General of Defence Planning Staff.

A qualified flying instructor of repute, the Air Officer led a fighter squadron in 1972. Displaying unique leadership and zeal, he brought up the squadron to a high level of combat readiness in the shortest possible time. Later, he was appointed as the Chief Operations Officer of a Jaguar base. A graduate of Defence Services Staff College Wellington, the Air Officer commanded a front line fighter base in 1985. Being aware of the large number of operational units and infrastructural facilities based at his station he displayed remarkable ability to coordinate their roles to achieve the overall combat effectiveness of the vase during his command.

The Air Officer presently holds the crucial appointment of Air Officer incharge Personnel at Air HQs and continues to show a remarkable ability to produce the necessary man­machine interface for the efficiency of the Air Force.

Air Marshal Prabhat Kumar Varma, VM has, thus, rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Marshal Sherwin Derek Lelie Tully was commissioned in the Indian Air Force on 30th November, 1956. A graduate of the National Defence College and Defence Services Staff College and a fighter pilot of repute, he has held a variety of important command and staff appointments with distinction.

During the Indo-Pal Conflict, he displayed conspicuous courage and bravery. He later commanded a front-line fighter squadron when he used his initiative and innovativeness in bringing about noticeable improvements in operational standards.

On elevation to the rank of Air Vice Marshal, he took over as Director of Training at Air Headquarters where he ensured that training processes and methodologies remained in tune with the requirements of the Indian Air Force. Promoted to the rank of Air Marshal in 1992, he was appointed as Senior Air Staff Officer at Headquarters Training Command. He guided and supervised the updating of the training plan and with his dedication and involvement, made significant contribution towards improving the training in all aspects.

Air Marshal Sherwin Derek Lelie Tully has, thus rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Vice Marshal Pratap Chandra Sharda was commissioned in the Medical Corps in July, 1959. He has held several important appointments at field and staff level with distinction. As a pioneer member and secretary of Aero Medical Society of India during 197679, his untiring efforts led to reorganization of aviation medicine as a specialty subject for the award of the highest medical degree in India. His contributions were recognized by award of Fellowship of the Society.

After obtaining post graduate degree in Hospital Administration in 1991, he was posted as Registrar of second largest Air Force Hospital in North­East. Under his stewardship, the hospital became a model for other hospitals in the area.

As Air Commodore, the Air Officer was given the command of Central Medical Establishment, where he formulated new structure and style of work and carried out an indepth review and analysis of the requirements of the users. His wide knowledge, administrative ability and sustained hard work resulted in commendable improvement in the working and performance of the Institute. His dynamism and untiring efforts reduced the time taken for completion of medical boards for candidates service personnel from 10 to 4/5 days. This resulted in significant recurring financial gain, reduced fatigue and frustration and enhanced decision making at the executive level.

Air Vice Marshal Pratap Chandra Sharda has, thus, rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Vice Marshal Surinder Mohan Mayor was commissioned in the Administrative Branch of Air Force in 1958. He has been a pioneer in the field of successfully carrying out trial jumps from different types of aircraft with indigenous parachuting equipment.

In 1987-88, during Sri Lankan operations, he was posted as Senior Officer-in-Charge Administration, Southern Air Command and was actively involved in setting up four Air bases on foreign land from where extensive Heliborne Operations were launched against the LTTE.

During his tenure as Director of Personnel (Airmen) at Air Headquarters, he has been instrumental in introducing new appraisal system in respect of airmen. He also reviewed and streamlined the policies pertaining to recruitment, postings, selection of personnel for various courses in order, to enhance the operational efficiency of the Air Force.

As Chairman of the Air Force Sports Control Board, he has been able to improve the overall performance of the Air Force in all the disciplines of sports.

As President of the Services Sports Control Board, he is very keenly involved in all sports activities and a record number of personnel from the services participated in the recently held Barcelona Olympics. In recognition of his deep involvement in sports and organising abilities, he was selected by the Indian Olympics Association as the Deputy Chiefde­Mission of the Indian contingent which participated in Barcelona Olympics.

Air Vice Marshal Surinder Mohan Mayor has, thus, rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Vice Marshal Kilara Vamana Iya was commissioned in the Logistics Branch of the Indian Air Force on 30th December, 1959. He has held a number of staff appointments with distinction.

As Deputy Director of the MiG-21 fleet at Air Headquarters during 1978-80, he organized logistics support for frontline squadrons in a very effective manner. As Commanding Officer of an ASP during 1984-85, he successfully organized Road Supply Service to the field units in the East, thereby, contributing to a high state of serviceability of the aircraft and associated equipment. As a member of the Directing Staff at College of Defence Management, he directed a number of important studies sponsored by the Services, resulting in implementation of the recommendations of the Services Study Team, which included a number of measures for streamlining the logistics support to IPKF in Sri Lanka to make it more cost­effective. As Air Officer Commanding of ED during AVSM 1993 1990-91, he introduced a modified version of transportation of aircraft on ground consignments to bring in cost reduction. He also successfully arranged discontinuance of the parallel run in the area of computerized inventory management and surrendered fully vacancies in different ranks and trades to bring in substantial saving.

Ever since he assumed the office of Air Officer Incharge Logistics Management at HQ Maintenance Command, he has been addressing himself to the twin objectives of rendering a high degree of satisfaction to the operational units of the Air Force and simultaneously bringing in cost reduction in inventory management. He has, thus, contributed substantially to sustain a high state of operational preparedness of the Air Force.

Air Vice Marshal Kilara Vamana Iya has, thus, rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Vice Marshal Jagdish Kumar Arora was commissioned in the Accounts Branch of Air Force on the 27th May, 1961. After acquitting himself well in accounts assignments for three and a half years, he joined the Air Force legal set up in 1964. He has held with distinction the appointments of Command Deputy Judge Advocate/Command Judge Advocate in all the Command Headquarters of the IAF.

Air Vice Marshal Arora took over as the Judge Advocate General (Air) on the 2nd July, 1990. At that time a large number of civil suits were pending in various courts. Through personal involvement, deep study of the cases and close liaison with Govt Counsels and civil authorities, he ensured that prompt and upto date briefing was given to the Govt. Counsels in each case. His personal presence at the hearings and the prompt advice to the Govt. Counsels led to favourable decisions in several cases.

The officer has the distinction of revising the Regulations for the Air Force. He has been instrumental in removing many ambiguities and inconsistencies and making administration of justice simpler for Air Force Officers.

Air Vice Marshal Jagdish Kumar Arora has, thus, rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Vice Marshal Charanjit Lal Mago was commissioned in the Indian Air Force on the 6th Sept 1961. During has long service career spreading over 31 years, the Air Officer has held with distinction various assignments in flying training stations, fighter squadrons, operational wings, base repair depots and Air Headquarters.

One of the first assignments that the officer had was formation of a fighter squadron equipped with Gnat Aircraft just a few months before the outbreak of Indo­Pak hostilities in 1965. Not only the formation of the squadron was smooth, but it was brought to the fully operational standard by the time war broke out and the squadron could take active part in the operations.

After training abroad on Mirage­2000 in 1984, the officer led a team of professionals to set up facilities for servicing of this 'state of the art' aircraft in a very short period so that the aircraft could be made operational immediately on arrival. With meticulous planning and professional capability of a very high order, the officer was able to set up the base and ensured that the aircraft flew immediately on its arrival in India from France.

During 1986-1989, the Air Officer commanded one prestigious base repair depot of the Indian Air Force. During this period, the depot achieved high production in respect of aircraft, engines and rotables, consequently the best BRD Trophy of HQ MC was awarded to the depot.

As Assistant Chief of the Air Staff at Air HQ, the Air Officer was responsible for the management of combat fleet of Russian origin. Despite problems being faced due to the political developments in the erstwhile Soviet Union, the officer had been able to manage the maintenance of MiG fighter jets without affecting their serviceability.

Air Vice Marshal Charanjit Lal Mago has, thus, rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Commodore Ghanshyam Gururani was commissioned in the IAF on 1st December, 1961. As the Air Officer Commanding of a Base Repair Depot, he introduced modern concepts of production and material planning and control in the Depot. It resulted in timely completion of provisioning activities and reduction in production hold­ups.

The Air Officer contributed substantially towards the serviceability of the AN-32 and Mi-17 fleet in the year 1991-92 by personally guiding airframe, aeroengine and main gear box life extension studies to fruitful completion. Apart from keeping a large part of these fleet flying, his efforts reduced the dependence of the IAF on foreign expertise and saved considerable foreign exchange.

Anticipating delays in the receipts of the detailed project for overhaul of Mi-17 helicopter, its engine and arrangements, the Air Officer initiated planning for the project with total expertise and data available from Mi-8 helicopter. This avoided a delay of more than one year in the execution of the project.

Air Commodore Ghanshyam Gururani VSM has, thus, rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Commodore Syed Shahid Hussain Naqvi was commissioned in the Air Force in March, 1963. Since then, he has held many important assignments and has always discharged his duties with distinction.

Air Commodore Naqvi has been in the command of one of the Wings of Air Force since the 21st April, 1990. He is a qualified 'Pilot Attack Instructor', a graduate of the Defence Services Staff College and US Air Force War College. He was also the first Air Force Commander of Jaffna Air Base during 'Operation Pawan' and acquitted himself exceptionally well on this assignment.

During his tenure as the Air Officer Commanding of a premier air base, he has brought about far reaching improvements. He was responsible for the smooth induction of one of the two squadrons at his base. Within a short span of 10 months, this Squadron was fully 'Operational' in terms of pilots, aircraft and equipment. This was solely due to excellent planning and energetic execution under his supervision. Subsequently, the Squadron started achieving a higher flying effort, as compared to other Squadrons of the fleet. During this period, not only the flying effort of both the Squadrons showed upward curve, but the serviceability of the aircraft was also maintained at a high level.

The Air Officer personally designed a bomb trolley and fabricated locally which has been introduced in the I.A.F. as a standard equipment. He has also

During his tenure as the Air Officer Commanding of the air base, Air Commodore Naqvi has displayed the highest qualities of leadership, dynamism and management. His originality, novel methods and result oriented approach have brought laurels to the Station.

Air Commodore Syed Shahid Hussain Naqvi, VrC has, thus, rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Commodore Jogendra Singh Sisodia was commissioned as a pilot in Oct. 1963. Since then, he has held many important assignments with distinction. His important contribution is his role in inducting the Jaguar force into the Indian Air Force and its subsequent build up into a highly potent operational force

In March, 1991, Air Cmde Sisodia took over as the Air Officer Commanding of the premier fighter base and played a pivotal role in peace and during hostilities. Air Cmde Sisodia has been most adept at getting his subordinates to effectively use their innovative skills for improving the operational facilities at his base. He has taken keen interest in the areas of welfare and family life of Air Force personnel at the station. His efforts were largely responsible for keeping the morale and the motivation of the force at the premier fighter base very high.

Air Commodore Sisodia has been a very sincere and conscientious officer throughout his career. He has always set personal example. In his present assignment he has shown high standards of command and control.

Air Commodore Jogendra Singh Sisodia, VM has, thus, rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Air Commodore Govind Chandra Singh Rajwar was commissioned in the Indian Air Force on the 31st Dec., 1963. During his service career of more than 29 years, he has acquitted himself in an exemplary manner. He has held the appointments of Air Force Examiner at aircrew Examining Board, Nav Leader Air HQs Communication Squadron, Station Commander of a Wing and JDPO at Air HQ. He is a graduate of the RAF Staff College, Bracknell, U.K.

Air Commodore Rajwar took over the Air Force Record Office in January 1991. The task of Air Force Record Office (AFRO) is enormous being responsible for the cadre management of a large number of airmen. It deals with their postings, placements, promotions, career planning and record maintenance and continuous updating of data. Despite numerous constraints such as streamwise utilisation, shortages of manpower, trained status, resource crunch and related problems associated with human endeavour, Air Commodore Rajwar ensured that the operational need of the field units are fully met. He has initiated a number of organisational and procedural changes within the Air Force Record Office to enhance its effectiveness to match the requirements of service and the needs of the personnel.

From December, 1991 onwards for almost eight months, Air Commodore Rajwar has also officiated as Director Personnel Administration at Air HQ in addition to his job of AOC AFRO. Inspite of the fact that both these appointments are very high pressure and full time assignments, he has performed exceptionally well and worked relentlessly for prolonged hours with total involvement and dedication.

Air Commodore Govind Chandra Singh Rajwar, VrC, VSM has, thus, rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Group Captain Manprit Singh Brar commanded a Wing of the Indian Air Force from 23rd January, 1989 to the 30th March, 1992. During this period, the internal security situation in Punjab had been a cause of grave national concern. Under these circumstances, the Wing had to be on high operational preparedness to meet both internal and external threat. The officer provided all out infrastructural support and guidance to the flying and other units and these units performed creditably without compromising flight safety in any way.

Group Captain Brar's involvement in all activities of the Wing has set a fine example to other personnel under his command. While being a hard task master, the well being of his personnel also remains uppermost in his mind. Consequently, his leadership has inspired to give their best to the service.

Group Captain Manprit Singh Brar, VM has, thus, rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

Group Captain Tajinder Pal Singh Chhatwal was commissioned in the IAF on 31st December, 1967. Till date, he has to his credit over 7000 hrs of accident free flying. He has held the highest CAT/IR on most of the helicopter flown by IAF.

He has commanded a helicopter unit from 1985 to 1987 and has always engaged in active flying till he took over as Station Commander of an Air Force Station in December, 1989. The Station was mainly a helicopter base. The helicopters from this base were engaged in air maintenance, armament and training activities. Besides these tasks, the helicopters from this base were regularly used for urgent life saving casualty evacuation and airfield surveillance tasks in Western Air Command during VVIP visits.

He successfully performed these diverse and difficult tasks which demanded total motivation, committed leadership and dedication to work. He displayed all these qualities in ample measure.

His sense of duty and managerial skills have been of an extremely high order. Thorough initiative, personal example and prudent innovative approach to maintenance practices, he has been able to achievement optimum serviceability of the aircraft.

Group Captain Tajinder Pal Singh Chhatwal SC, VM has, thus, rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.

On the 4th December, 1991, there was a major fire at the Gwalior Rayon Mills which was caused by the explosion of a chemical boiler and bursting gas cylinders. Due to the explosion and fire, the building had collapsed and a number of people were buried under the debris. The Indian Air Force located there was called upon to assist the rescue work. Within half an hour, three DFTs and ambulance and a SCFT were sent to the site of fire. The Air Force managed to contain the fire despite the fact that there was no direct access to the site. After fire was contained it was noticed that there were a couple of gas cylinders around which were leaking. JWO Raju at grave risk to his own life and unmindful of the danger involved in going near the cylinders, took a chance and approached the cylinders and made them safe. Subsequently, despite the debris and smouldering fire, in total disregard to the danger to his life, he began the operation of clearing the debris and rescuing the people under the collapsed building. JWO Raju displayed courage above and beyond the call of his duty in undertaking a task which was dangerous to his own life.

Junior Warrant Officer Venkata Phani Raju Kala, SC, thus, displayed gallantry of a high order and set an example to others.

On 13th Oct 1992, he was asked to undertake a very dangerous and exacting rescue mission at Pawanoo (HP). The hauling cable of the cable car carrying passengers to Timber Trail resort had snapped and ten passengers were stranded in the cable car hanging at a height of 1300 feet. He took off at about 0800 hours with qualified aircrew and role equipment and landed at Chandimandir at 0850 hours. He very quickly analysed the situation and concluded that the only way the tourist could be evacuated was by the way of winching them out of the cable car. Using his vast experience and exceptional flying ability, he deduced that the helicopter would have to hover precariously close to the set of cables that ran above the cable car. It was one of the hardest decisions he ever made. Gp Capt Major decided to launch the Mi-17 to rescue the stranded tourists. He briefed the crew thoroughly and advised them that the consequences of any lapse would be fatal. He motivated them and raised their morale. He became an integral part of the aircrew and even flew the missions.

Under his supervision, Mi-17 helicopter successfully rescued five stranded tourists on the 14th October 1992 and the remaining tourists were rescued on the next day.

Group Captain Fali Homi Major has thus rendered a yeoman's service by his able leadership and conspicuous courage.

On the 13th October 1992, the haulage cable of the Timber Trail resort ropeway snapped and the cable car with 10 passengers on board got stuck in the middle of the valley at a height of 1300 feet above the river bed. At 1400 hours on 14th October, 1992 Wing Commander Subhash Chander was given the task of rescuing these stranded tourists. He took off from Chandimandir at 1410 hours and carried our a recce of the ropeway cables, HT cables, stranded cable car and other obstructions in the rescue area. At 1620 hours Wing Commander Subhash Chander took off for rescue mission which was one of the most difficult and dangerous rescue operation ever undertaken. Since the valley was narrow the helicopter had to be manoeuvred with utmost care and precision to bring it to hover at the point of the beginning of the ropeway height of 1350 feet. He brought the helicopter and made it lower about 30 meters above the cable with utmost skill and precision flying. The cable on the left was only about 3-5 meters away and under the rotor blades. To keep the helicopter steady at that height without any reference point and under cross wind conditions was a very difficult and challenging task.

The manoeuvre lasted about 15 minutes and was extremely demanding. Wing Commander Subhash Chander kept his cool and encouraged the crew members to maintain the highest level of concentration. The mission was successful and the stranded passengers were winched to the helicopter.

Wing Commander Subhash Chander has, thus, displayed conspicuous courage, dedication and exceptional flying skill.

Gp Capt Satinder Lal Sud had the honour of Commanding a prestigious Trisonic strategic reconnaissance Sqn from 23 Oct to 13 Jan 92.

On taking over as CO, he undertook the task of training pilots to ensure ops capabilities of the Sqn. He achieved this single handedly by conducting lectures and performing dual checks. He had four fully ops pilots available to him in about one and half months time.

He personally air tested all aircraft returned from Russia after MR and ensured quality control. He involved himself in technical matters and ensured that all lifed components were changed with Cat 'D' rotables on the ac going to Russia for MR thus increasing his bank of rotables and saving shipment charges.

For the Sqn detts, minimum requirement of transport support was two IL-76 ac which was reduced to one by removing inertial-nav planning equipment from the Pelong vehicle and installing the same on a trolley which could be loaded in an AN-32 ac.

Photo machine, an important equipment for strategic reconnaissance Sqn, was unserviceable for want of spare parts from Russia. He persistently explored the market for fabricating the parts indigenously. He succeeded in doing so and put the machine into fully serviceable condition.

For his exceptional devotion to duty and management skill of high order, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to Group Captain Satinder Lal Sud.

Group Captain Arvind Kumar Nagalia, VSM has been in command of a front line squadron since 06 Mar 89. The Squadron is equipped with two types of aircraft, the Jaguar and the Canberra.

He has been personally instrumental in recovery of a Jaguar aircraft after a serious engine problem while doing a dual check. The aircraft had engine surge in flight resulting in breaking off the LP compressor blades. By his exemplary airmanship in handling a serious emergency, he effected a safe recovery of the aircraft.

The average flying increased on the Jaguar and Canberra from 0900h per year to about 1200h per year respectively. By systematic training and meticulous planning, he has increased the operational potential of his unit. The unit won a number of trophies in Command Gunnery meets.

Being a maritime unit, his leadership and sense of involvement has resulted in successful commencement of Maritime Night Strike Syllabus and a 100% operational status of his pilots.

For his exceptional devotion to duty and qualities of leadership, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to Gp Capt AK Nagalia.

Wg Cdr Dushyant Singh Ahluwalia has been on the posted strength of a Squadron since Aug 91. He has flown 4800 hrs on various transport aircraft including 21 hrs on AN-12.

On 05 Apr 92, Wg Cdr Ahluwalia was on a supply dropping sortie to Gapshan DZ. After successful completion of the drop, when close to Leh at an altitude of 8 km, a loud bang was heard from the starboard side followed by a judder. It was reported that number 3 engine was emitting thick black smoke. He then, without undue haste, ordered feathering of number 3 engine. As soon as it was completed, the internal fire warning light of number 4 engine appeared. The flight engineer sought permission to use number 4 engine fire extinguisher. When faced with this grave situation, Wg Cdr Ahluwalia showing remarkable coolness and presence of mind, restrained the flight engineer from operating the fire extinguishers. He instead immediately reduced power on No. 4 engine. There was no visual sign of fire on number 4 engine. He then came overhead Leh and made a correct approach and safe landing on three engines. On subsequent examination, number 3 engine was found to have seized with bearing failure. Any delay in feathering would have resulted in disintegration of the engine.

Throughout the period of emergency, Wg Cdr Ahluwalia displayed cool and competent presence of mind and qualities of airmanship. All this resulted in the saving of a valuable aircraft and precious lives.

For his courage and exceptional devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to Wg Cdr DS Ahluwalia.

Wing Commander Mandava Ramakrishna assumed Command of a helicopter unit on 21 Jan 89 and immediately dedicated himself whole heartedly for 'OP PAWAN' in Srilanka. He personally flew 440 missions and successfully carried out live underslung operations of an Army Chetak helicopter shot down earlier under LTTE fire from Mettur jungles on 30 Oct 89. His personal attention to minute details, sound advance planning, initiative and above all exemplary courage as a leader enabled the unit to provide admirable support to IPKF throughout the difficult and trying conditions of "OP Pawan".

In May 90, during the relief operations in Andhra Pradesh, he not only worked round the clock flying and co-ordinating the entire relief operation involving seven Mi-8 and six Chetaks, but also flew 15 to 20 sorties every day in hazardous and adverse weather conditions. Again in Jun 91, Wg Cdr Ramakrishna led two helicopters in marginal and adverse weather to provide relief in tidal waves affected islands of Maldives rendering yeoman's service to the island nation of Maldives.

During the tenure of three years, Wg Cdr Ramakrishna has spared no effort in maintaining high operational status of all aircrew of the unit. His consistent had work and unstinted dedication has enabled the Sqn to maintain 100% categorization at all times. He was instrumental in achieving the Best Helicopter Unit trophy for 1989.

His excellence in professionalism, exemplary dedication, tenacity, outstanding leadership and a rare capacity to meet all operational tasks have been of highest order and in keeping with the best traditions of Indian Air Force.

For his professional competence and excep tional devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to Wg Cdr M Ramakrishna.

Wg Cdr Pushpendra Singh Diwaniyan has been commanding one of the first OSA-AK-M air defence squadrons of the IAF with effect from 14 May 90. He has flown 6600 hrs on various aircraft, all accident/incident free.

While posted as Flight Commander in a Helicopter unit during Nov-Dec 85 in 'OP MEGHDOOT', Wg Cdr PS Diwaniyan carried out 1000 hazardous missions to deliver over 1500 tons of vital supplies like guns, ammunition, rations and medicines to various helipads in Siachen Glacier considered one of the highest DZs/helipads in the world. During Nov 85, he carried out the first ever successful paradrop of eight snow-mobikes to high helipads like Chandan, Jawala, G-3, Kumar, Sai-la etc. in a very close proximity to enemy locations in situations invariably similar to warlike conditions due to frequent enemy shelling/fire, from altitudes ranging from 18000 to 21000 ft. well above the ceiling of Mi-17 helicopters. This resulted in enhanced operational mobility of the Army patrols between posts, near the actual line of control, on the Siachen Glacier.

Ever since taking up the assignment as OC of OSA-AK-M squadron, the officer has gone methodically and with a great zeal in moulding his unit into a viable operational squadron capable of meeting its assigned air defence task.

Wg Cdr Diwaniyan has had the unique distinction of being parade commander of the Air Force Day investiture parades, the President's Colour presentation parade and a number of Guard of Honours presented to foreign Heads of States.

For his courage and exceptional devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to Wg Cdr Pushpendra Singh Diwaniyan.

Squadron Leader Anil Chaudhari is on the posted strength of a Squadron of Air Force wef May 89. He is an A-2 QFI, FSL and IRIE.

During his tenure of three years in the unit, he has maintained an accident-free record and performed the duties of Flight Commander, IRIE and Sqn FSL.

After he became the first FSL on type in Feb 90, he immediately got down to the task of compiling data for calculating the firing parameters on Type. The important values of CL/Alpha for type were not available. TACDE, AF also could not provide the much needed information. Sqn Ldr Chaudhari took it on himself to work out these parameters. He resorted to using the MiG-23 figures and started correcting them after detailed analysis of results through plotted armament scores and file debriefs. His painstaking efforts bore fruits when the unit participated in the EAC Annual Gunnery Meet and was declared overall EKLAVYA champion for the year 1991-92 winning three of the four events. The calculating parameters were immediately transmitted to all type operating units so that the IAF standards could also improve.

He then got down to the task of Combat Training of the pilots. He introduced the Defensive Manoeuvering Concept on type, carried out trials and rewrote the entire briefing guide and circulated it to the type operators for Interdiction patterns, Strike Tactics and Close Air Support with 2, 3 and 4 ac missions. For his exceptional devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr Anil Chaudhari.

Sqn Ldr R Mahadevan has been working as a Senior Flight Commander of the Sqn since 15 Jul 91. He is fully operational on MiG Bis aircraft with 876:00 hrs on type and has an unblemished record of over 2100:00 hrs of total flying.

On 11 Oct 91, he was authorized to fly a routine procedures sortie on Type-75 ac C-2116. The initial part of the flight was uneventful. After 12 minutes of flying, he heard a loud bang and the aircraft developed severe vibrations. This was soon followed by the Fire Warning coming ON. The aircraft generator and hydraulic systems failed. The engine parameters shot well beyond the permissible limits. Sqn Ldr Mahadevan was thus faced with multiple emergencies within a short span of time. The aircraft condition was fast deteriorating and the pilot was faced with the most difficult decision to eject.

However, the pilot with single­minded devotion to duty decided to recover the crippled aircraft on residual thrust. He analysed the emergency promptly and recovered the aircraft safely. He thus displayed professional competence of a very high order in tackling complex emergencies. The pilot not only prevented the loss of a very expensive aircraft but also enriched the service with valuable information with regards to complex aircraft emergencies.

For his acts of courage and exceptional devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr R Mahadevan.

Sqn Ldr Surya Bir Singh is on the posted strength of Basic Flying Training School since 20 Jun 91, as a Flying Instructor.

On 20 Feb 92, Sqn Ldr SB Singh was detailed for an instructional general handl ing sortie on Deepak aircraft No. x 2550. During the process of demonstrating a loop to the trainee, severe engine vibrations were experienced, while the aircraft was travel ing vertically with air-speed rapidly reducing. Sqn Ldr SB Singh calmly reduced throttle and recovered the aircraft from the adverse attitude, inspite of being hampered by the severely vibrating instrument panel. Attempt of reducing the engine vibrations by adjusting mixture, resulted in engine switch off, vibrations and propeller coming to dead stop, instead of wind milling.

Sqn Ldr SB Singh kept the engine shut at great personal risk and decided to carry out a dead stick landing. The situation in terms of height and distance to runway at that moment was critical.

As a consequence of an excellent and precise judgment, expert and deft handling of the aircraft, Sqn Ldr SB Singh executed a copy book dead stick landing. During the entire emergency, he kept the inexperienced flight cadet engrossed by calling out the actions in the cockpit. Sqn Ldr SB Singh displayed exceptional qualities of airmanship and professionalism in handling the emergency by safely force landing the aircraft without any damage or injury to its occupants.

For his acts of courage and exceptional devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr SB Singh.

Flight Lieutenant Chow Ongpee Maunglang was posted to MiG Operational Flying Training Unit with effect from 09 Sep 91 from a Type 75 Squadron. From his arrival, he applied himself with determination and zeal to promote flying in this unit. Despite his youthful years, he displayed a rare maturity of purpose and design.

On 03 Jun 92, while rejoining after a PI sortie, his canopy exploded in the air. Silvers of perspex cut his face and shattered his cheek-bones, causing excessive bleeding. Despite the pain and shock, the officer retained his presence of mind and initiated an ejection. Though the ejection was successful, the canopy minus the perspex bubble did not separate cleanly. Grievously injured and tumbling down through the air, Flt Lt Maunglang did not panic but decided to fight on. He operated the manual separation lever and decided to eject through the broken canopy perspex. He achieved this and then also opened manual D ring to ensure that his parachute would deploy. Unfortunately, exiting through the canopy, he was hit on the head by the solid frame, causing fatal injuries. The officer fought to the very last breath.

For his acts of courage and exceptional devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal (Posthumously) to Flt Lt Chow Ongpee Maunglang.

Flt Lt Ravindra D Kudari is on the posted strength of a Squadron since 14 Oct 91. He has flown a total of 683 hrs. on different types of aircraft. His total solo experience on Canberra aircraft is 112 hrs.

On 22 Nov 91, while on a sortie and coming to land, he lowered undercarriage and commenced descent and noticed two 'reds' only on the undercarriage indicator and the main hydraulic pressure had dropped to zero. He operated the hand pump to build up hydraulic pressure to obtain three greens, but there was no response. Coupled with this, his starboard generator failure warning light also came on. He was advised by the SFS to initiate climb to 6000 feet and take appropriate actions. When all attempts to lower the undercarriage failed, he was told to prepare for a wheels up landing on the runway. During the 50 minutes or so, Flt Lt Kudari remained calm, composed and displayed professionalism of a very high order. After touch down, he controlled the direction in such a manner that the aircraft came to a halt on the runway centre line. The aircraft sustained least possible damage considering the fact that it was EW modified Canberra aircraft in which direction keeping is very difficult. Any error of judgment on the part of the pilot could have resulted in disastrous consequences. Throughout the period of about 58 minutes, while handling multiple emergencies, Flt Lt Kudari remained composed, calm and displayed high degree of professional competence resulting in not only saving the lives of the aircrew but also a valuable aircraft of the Air Force.

For his presence of mind and exceptional devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to Flt Lt RD Kudari

Flight Lieutenant Rajeev Kumar Chouhan is on the posted strength of a Helicopter Unit, Air Force since 09 May 90. He holds B Green Cat/IR on Mi-8 and has flown 1550 hrs of accident/incident-free flying to date.

On 11 Feb 92, Flt Lt Chouhan was detailed to undertake Air Maintenance Ex MON, to various DZs of Assam Rifles in Nagaland Area. During the course of Air Maintenance sortie from MON to Chaklanyshu on giving the command to drop the load over the DZ, Flt Lt Chouhan suddenly experienced severe vibrations followed by partial loss of control of the helicopter. One of the parachutes had separated from the load and had entangled in the tail. Sensing the emergency and seriousness of the situation, Flt Lt Chouhan kept cool and controlled the helicopter. Maintaining presence of mind, he decided to put the aircraft down on the helipad PSEAO in the immediate vicinity at an altitude of 1750 meters. During the course of landing on the helipad, the parachute chords further entangled in the tail rotor causing damage to tail rotor gear box to a very great extent resulting in further loss of control and direction of the helicopter.

Flt Lt Chouhan, however, continued to remain unperturbed and very successfully put the helicopter down at the helipad without any loss of life.

For his acts of courage and devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to Flt Lt RK Chouhan.

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

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

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

For exceptional courage, professional of highest order, excellent team work and exemplary devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to Flt Lt P Upadhaya.

Air Cmde Ashok Kumar, commissioned in 1960, has been an outstanding Logistics Officer. He has held important appointments in the field as well as on staff during his 32 years of service.

Air Cmde Ashok Kumar as CLMO, WAC, by his foresight and meticulous planning greatly enhanced Operational capability of the front line units which remained on alert most of the time during 1988-90. This, he achieved by timely positioning of needed spares, materials and aviation fuel at the bases, some of which were located in difficult terrain.

During Jan 90, at Srinagar, militants attacked Air Force personnel on way to their duty and killed one officer and few airmen. To provide security, 1000 DSC jawans were withdrawn from various peace stations, kitted fully with winter clothing and positioned at Srinagar at a short notice. This enormous task of kitting was completed by Air Cmde Ashok Kumar in incredibly short period of twelve hours. This achievement speaks of quick reaction capability and positive outlook of the officer.

25 ED was the first Air Force Unit to be allotted a highly advanced computer system which uses a language and environment hitherto not used in the Air Force. With his persistent efforts, as well as by motivating his team of officers, Air Cmde Ashok Kumar managed to fully utilise the computer and also brought in certain modifications to make it compatible with the Air Headquarters computer system.

For his professionalism, dedication, devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Air Cmde Ashok Kumar.

Air Cmde SAB Naidu, VM has been commanding one of the AF Stns since 19 Dec 90. He has led this people with zeal and enthusiasm. He has been an example of true leadership and hard work to all his officers and men.

On taking over the command, he reviewed the complete Hunter aircraft fleet and initiated necessary steps to boost the serviceability. The process of Number Plating of OCU, phasing out of Ajeet aircraft and re-equipping of 2 Sqn with MiG-27 ML aircraft was very smooth mainly due to his exceptional managerial abilities and qualities of leadership.

The Wing has been hosting outstation detachments of various types of fighter aircraft for air-to-air and air-to-ground firing. On an average, about 800 fighter sorties and 45 transport/helicopter sorties were flown from this base every month. These operations were carried out unhampered due to his personal involvement and meticulous planning.

Despite short notice, for presentation of Standards to 20 and 43 Sqns, Air Cmde Naidu prepared detailed plans and organised teams to carry out various duties and tasks related to the ceremony. His planning, personal involvement and organising capabilities of high order paved the way for successful completion of all the activities connected with the ceremony.

Air Cmde SAB Naidu has displayed exemplary leadership, initiative and planning. For his distinguished service of a very high order in the best tradition of Indian Air Force, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Air Cmde SAB Naidu, VM.

Gp Capt KB Kurup has been Chief Engineering Officer of a Wing since Sep 88. He is an outstanding Tech Officer with a brilliant academic and professional record. With his rich and varied experience, he has been able to revamp the Maint Organisation at the base. As a result, the serviceability of MiG-21 and MiG-23 Sqns at the base showed significant improvement.

By setting personal example of dedication and hard work, Gp Capt Kurup could galvanise his subordinates into a motivated and result-oriented team. During his tenure as C Eng O, the Wing bagged WAC Trophy for Best MT in 1989 and Best Wing in Maintenance in 1990 and a Sqn was adjudged Best Fighter Sqn in WAC in 1991. His foresight and planning skills resulted in smooth induction of MiG-29 ac at the base in Apr 90.

Gp Capt Kurup, with his keen initiative, single-handedly designed, developed and installed a maintenance information package which processes data not only for the field managers but also generates periodic returns for higher formations.

For his outstanding achievements and total dedication to Air Force, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Gp Capt KB Kurup.

Gp Capt Vijay Madhav Alurkar was commissioned on 29 Dec 1963. He has held numerous important appointments in the field as well as on staff during 30 years of service.

A very competent Medical Specialist, he was awarded commendation by AOC-in-C Training Command in 1976 for his professional competence and devotion to duty. He has published/presented one hundred and twenty scientific papers in various medical journals and conferences. This bears testimony to his relentless pursuit of academic excellence. His contribution as a member of Medical Team for evaluation of prospective Indian Cosmonauts for project Pawan is noteworthy.

Gp Capt Alurkar served with 36 Inf Div (OP PAWAN) in SRI LANKA where his presence was a great morale booster to the troops. He treated and salvaged many cases of snake bites, Pneumonia and other serious medical conditions. He extended his expertise to Civil Hospital, Trincomalee also. His work was highly appreciated by GOC of 36 Inf Div.

Gp Capt Alurkar has managed Medical and Cardiac Evaluation Centre at AFCME with crisp efficiency. His high professional acumen, diligence and devotion to duty have moulded this centre into a model which is one of the best in Armed Forces. Due to his positive attitude towards aircrew health and conservation of trained manpower, a fair number of aircrew have returned to flying assignments even after undergoing by-pass surgery.

In recognition of his excellent professional acumen and its positive application in the interest of service, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Gp Capt Vijay Madhav Alurkar.

Gp Capt Madan Mohan Joshi has been in Command of E & ITI since 08 Jan 90. A professionally competent officer, he was commended by the CAS for his innovative exploitation of the ECCM receiver through modification. He was again commended by the CAS in 1987 for maintaining and sustaining a very high state of serviceability of technical resources continuously for two years. Earlier in 1977, he was commended by the AOC-in-C Training Command for developing innovative training aids at AFTC.

As CO of E & ITI, Gp Capt MM Joshi has ceaselessly worked and achieved significant improvements in all spheres of training activities. It was due to his perseverance that the Institute was able to set-up a large number of training/teaching aids and facilities like flight safety complex and Computer Centre.

Gp Capt MM Joshi, with sustained efforts, not only improved the quality of training but also brought about an attitudinal change amongst the trainees and instructors. The result was evident in the Institute winning overall Inter-Institute Trophy.

For his professional competence of a very high order, devotion to duty and dedication to service, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Gp Capt MM Joshi.

Gp Capt KB Menon has been the Station Commander of one of the units since 01 Aug 90. During this period the unit has maintained an unblemished record of operational efficiency.

In 1991, the main Ops Room and Radar Head had to undergo major renovation requiring the radar to be shut down for six weeks and the Ops Room shifted to the standby location. By meticulous planning, applying management techniques and close monitoring of the repair work, he was able to ensure that the functioning of the ADDC was not disrupted at any stage and that the unit was once again made fully functional in less than half the time allotted for repair work. Under his dynamic leadership, the unit was awarded many trophies and was also adjudged the Best Signal Unit in Central Air Command.

Gp Capt KB Menon revised and upgraded the training syllabi for fighter controllers to bring them in consonance with the existing operational environment. The syllabi for courses conducted at the Air Defence College were modified under his guidance and supervision and a qualitative improvement in training was achieved. As team leader for the acceptance trials of the Indra-1 radar, by his perseverance and interaction with the production agencies, he ensured that the radar was inducted only after all the desired specifications had been met in full. This was done keeping in mind the long term interests of the Air Force.

In recognition of his professional competence, dynamic leadership and astute managerial skills, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Gp Capt KB Menon.

Gp Capt Belur Ramakrishna Srinivasa Moorthy was commissioned on 23 Dec 64 and has handled a variety of important assignments.

During his tenure at AFCAO from 198689, with sheer determination and foresight, he evolved a strategic plan to bring down the incidence of audit objections and speeded up the settlement of non-effective accounts of service personnel. With his untiring perseverance he brought down the audit objections significantly and reduced the outstanding non-effective cases of Airmen and NCs(E). In addition, he reviewed and got audited 1.3 lacs IRLA and remitted the credit balances.

In July 91, there were bills worth Rs. 60.80 crores for the period 1960-61 to 1991-92 pending for settlement by various agencies like Central Govt. Ministries, State Govts. etc., towards cost of airlift provided by IAF. A drive for collection of dues supported by MOD was initiated. For this, Gp Capt Moorthy identified the outstanding bills, against each of the 106 agencies within four days. He accomplished this task with single mindedness of purpose. He forwarded 4000 bills to the concerned agencies in shortest possible time. With his professional competence, organising ability and liaison with MOD, Dte of Ops (T&M) and audit, he could clear most of the doubts raised by the user agencies. This resulted in settlement of bills of over Rs. 51.08 crores.

For exceptional tenacity of purpose, resultoriented approach and professional acumen, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Gp Capt BRS Moorthy.

Gp Capt Bhojwani, commissioned in IAF on 16 Oct 65, has held various responsible appointments including Chief Instructor at FIS, CO of two front line fighter squadrons, DS at College of Air Warfare and at DSSC and Chief Operations Officer.

The officer had the distinction of commanding two front line fighter squadrons, both operating MiG-21 aircraft in the operational training role in the Eastern Sector. He ensured a high standard of training and discipline and the squadrons displayed a perfect Flight Safety record. It was due to Gp Capt Bhojwani's leadership that, in Jan 87, when a sudden need arose, the squadron shifted smoothly to the operational role and deployed to a non-flying FBSU in the Western Sector and was declared battle-ready in a matter of 24 hours.

In Sep 88, Gp Capt Bhojwani was posted as COO at a premier IAF base. Displaying a rare combination of academic and practical insight, he helped further streamline the operational potential of the station, with particular emphasis on the integration of the two new SAGW systems introduced into service at that time. He carried out a fresh threat assessment for the Extended BADZ which led to the redeployment of MOFs. Subsequent exercises proved the efficacy of the new deployment.

A significant contribution of Gp Capt Bhojwani has been in updating the existing personnel policies, and making them more comprehensive. The complete overhaul of the policy on operational augmentation of manpower in the event of hostilities, introduction of computerised leave returns for all officers of the service, so as to ensure prompt auditing and payment of retirement benefits and carrying out in-depth studies in the area of manpower planning and their training are examples of this officer's initiative and attention to details.

For distinguished service of a very high order and devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Gp Capt S Bhojwani.

Wg Cdr Ashok Bhagwat was posted to the Dte of ASR on 04 Jan 90. He was tasked with a number of major schemes involving fighter aircraft, the most important of which were the oft-publicised AJT Project and the lesser known, but equally important, BTT project.

Wg Cdr Bhagwat, charged with revitalising the stagnating AJT project, undertook his task in a pragmatic fashion. After meticulously researching the background, the officer was able to suggest novel methods on how the project should be handled. These required the officer's professional application, a clear understanding of the fundamental issues and an exhaustive preparation of the subjectmatter. When the RRM decided that a Secretary-level Committee suggest an optimal solution, the DCAS inputs for the Committee were provided by Wg Cdr Bhagwat. The officer once again carried out an indepth appraisal; a sheer testimony to his perseverance. That this major project now stands poised for a decision is primarily on account of the very considerable time and effort devoted to it by Wg Cdr Bhagwat.

The BTT project, on the other hand, was a completely different challenge for this conscientious officer. Unable to proceed on account of the critical economic situation, he suggested an innovative approach. The suggestion was accorded requisite approval and mainly as a result of Wg Cdr Bhagwat's initiative the project is to commence shortly.

The complex task of updating the MiG-21 engaged the attention of Wg Cdr Bhagwat to such an extent that he was singled out to represent the IAF at an important joint meeting in the Soviet Union. He has critically examined & large volume of soviet documents and has made a number of constructive suggestions.

Wg Cdr Bhagwat's keenness to advocate new concepts, his thoroughly professional approach, logical reasoning, analytical mind and imaginative ideas, have infused fresh life into projects which were making little headway.

For the afore-said attributes, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wg Cdr AV Bhagwat.

In addition to the task of overhaul of aerongines, Wg Cdr Yadav was actively involved in calendar life extension of AI-20 'M' Naval aero-engines, TBO life extension of AI-20 'D' aero engines and modification on AN-12 aero-engines for use on AN-32 aircraft. Recommendations given by the Depot based on the work carried out by Wg Cdr Yadav were instrumental in extension of calendar life and TBO of these aero-engines.

For the technical competence, innovativeness, ability to motivate and total devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wg Cdr KS Yadav.

Gp Capt Koshy Zachariah has been in Command of 1 Air Force Dental Centre from 02 Apr 90 to 17 May 92 The last 30 years of Gp Capt Koshy Zachariah's service had been exemplified by his brilliant academic and professional achievements. He was especially selected as a Research Pool Officer under Director General Armed Forces Medical Services, the first Dental Officer to earn this distinction. He not only has a large number of research projects of high standard to his credit but was solely responsible for activating research activities in Army Dental Corps and Dental Branches of Navy and Air Force. As Commanding Officer, Air Force Dental Centre, Jalahalli, he planned and set up a new Dental Centre, which saw some outstanding and innovative ideas in concept of Dentistry and its delivery system and is cited as a model of modern day Dental Health Care. He was singularly instrumental in formulating and executing the training of para-dental staff which culminated in the award of recognition to AF Dental Establishment by Dental Council of India.

He has introduced the concept of multidisciplinary approach in patient management. Due to availability of highly advanced and latest professional expertise, Air Force Dental Centre, Palam has come to be recognised as one of the best in the Services and country as well as attained the distinction of being a referral centre.

Gp Capt Koshy Zachariah within a short period has initiated and successfully completed modernisation of three surgeries with latest state of the art equipment. The Dental laboratory has been up-dated and equipped to deliver bio-compatible metal castings latest in the world today. With his initiative, a computer facility has been added with development of soft ware for patient data, Dental Health Statistics, inventory control, patient appointment and recall system. All these have elevated the unit to a position of pre-eminence among the service Dental Centres in the country.

For his distinguished service of very exceptional order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Gp Capt Koshy Zachariah.

Wg Cdr KH Babu, a post-graduate in Metallurgical Engineering was commissioned in IAF in Jul 71. He has held important appointments connected with the maintenance of aircraft as well as SAGW. For his contribution towards the improvement of maintenance and operational aspects of SAM-3 Technical Flight, he was awarded the Chief of the Air Staff Commendation in Aug 86.

Wg Cdr Babu has been working as Project Manager (Warheads) in Project Prithvi since Jan 89. He coordinated development, fabrication and testing of Pre-fragmented Monolithic Warhead for Prithvi. He contributed significantly in the design and development of Bomblet Submunition Warheads which are in advance stage.

The recovery of engine parts of Prithvi from Sea Bed was vital to carryout post flight review of PO8 Flight trial. This task of recovery was assigned to Wg Cdr Babu. The officer meticulously planned the recovery operation along with a team of divers from Eastern Naval Command. The officer went to SHAR centre and executed the recovery operation. The entire operation was successfully conducted in one week's time.

Contribution of Wg Cdr Babu to the training of Artillery Officers and Jawans in carrying out Prithvi Drills is outstanding. He wrote Combat Drill Manuals in consultation with the designers which helped the Artillery Team to carryout the Missile Preparation Drills smoothly and efficiently.

In recognition of outstanding contributions to the Project, the devotion and dedication shown, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wg Cdr KH Babu.

Wg Cdr G Nayyar is on the posted strength of a Wing wef 23 Oct 89 and is employed as SE (M).

Wg Cdr Nayyar has been instrumental in improving and sustaining the serviceability of MiG-21 Bis fleet at this base. This he could achieve with dedicated effort and technical insight. Further, five AOG aircraft which were on ground for over two years, were also recovered during this period. As the Station Maintenance Safety Officer, he carried out regular checks of maintenance activities and also implemented some innovative ideas. A larger percentage of MT vehicles at this base are of vintage models. The maintenance of these is extremely difficult due to poor supply of spares from FOD and limited resources in the local market. Inspite of these constraints, Wg Cdr G Nayyar, by his perseverance and innovative skill has been able to achieve a high standard of MT serviceability.

The officer is trained abroad on certain type of bombs. These bombs were acquired by the IAF in the early eighties, primarily for use on Ajeet ac. Due to phasing out of Ajeets from the service, these bombs have been rendered surplus to the inventory. A service paper was submitted by Wg Nayyar recommending the use of these bombs on the MiG Variants. On the basis of the service paper submitted by Wg Cdr G Nayyar, trials have successfully been conducted by ASTE and the stores cleared for use on the MiG Variants. This achievement is considered very significant.

For his technical insight, extraordinary performance and valuable contribution to the service, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wg Cdr Nayyar.

Wg Cdr Raj Kamal Shrivastav was commissioned in Army Medical Corps on 27 March 1973 and has been permanently seconded to the Air Force. Wg Cdr Shrivastav has been posted to the Office of the Director General Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS) since 5th August 1989 and has been holding the crucial and sensitive appointment of DADG (P) primarily dealing with the personnel matters of all medical, dental and nursing officers of the three services including handling and processing of court cases and statutory complaints. He has carried out his duties with thoroughness and admirable dedication. While dealing with the statutory complaints or writ petitions, he has displayed maturity, rationality and objectivity of the highest order. It has been largely due to his diligent staff work that most of these complaints or writ petitions have been decided fairly and justly thereby enhancing the prestige and credibility of the Corps. Wg Cdr Shrivastav has through his conscious and meticulous approach been able to formulate the seniority list of the AMC Officers of the three services in the rank of Lt Col. & its equivalent in other two services.

For his distinguished service of an exceptional order, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wg Cdr Raj Kamal Shrivastav.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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