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Awardee List for the year 2010
A total of 67 Awards are listed.
Param Vishist Seva Medal : 6 | Ati Vishist Seva Medal : 12 | Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry) : 22 | Vishist Seva Medal : 27 |
 Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gp Capt | Arun Kumar Barik 17122 AE(M) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 10 | Announced 26 Jan 10 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Arun Kumar Barik (17122) Aeronautical Engineering (Mechanical) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as an Engineer in the Aeronautical Engineering (Mechanical) branch on 14 Feb 1983. The Officer is posted as Chief Engineering Officer (CEO) at Air Force Station, Bareilly wef 05 Nov 2007. The officer was the first Senior Engineer (Aircraft) at Air Force Station, Pune during induction of SU-30 MKI aircraft. His contribution in smooth induction and setting up of all facilities is acknowledged by one and all. While on the posted strength of Regional Centre Military Airworthiness, Koraput, he contributed positively towards improving the engine overhaul and manufacturing facilities at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Koraput. As Commanding Officer (CO), Air Force Liaison Establishment (Nasik Division) he was actively involved in the upgrade of Phase I & 11 of SU-30 MKI aircraft. The officer's contribution to service at each appointment has been based on in depth professional competence, economy of resources, effective leadership and attention to details. During his tenure as the CEO, re-equipment of 24 Squadron with Su-30 MKI aircraft was completed, 8 Sqn was resurrected and Tech Flight became fully operational. State of art Avionics Lab, Mechanical and Role Equipment Labs were made fully functional. With his proactive approach in managing various techno-logistic issues and by synergizing resources from Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), HAL divisions, Defence Research Development Organisation and IAF, the base was able to achieve peak serviceability of SU-30 MKI aircraft of 85 % and average it around 70%. In case of helicopters 100% serviceability was achieved on three occasions totaling to about 43 days with average serviceability of 85%. Mechanical Transport both Common User Vehicles and Aircraft Specialist Vehicles consistently maintained a serviceability of 98%. Air Force Station, Bareilly was chosen as the base for induction of Recce Pod assets for SU-30 MKI aircraft. Gp Capt Barik has relentlessly endeavoured to resolve the teething problems related to integration and setting up of interim facilities for Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) and Electro Optics/ Infra Red (EO/IR) Lab. Flight trials for both SAR and EO/lR Pods was completed under his able guidance. He has been the single point contact between OEM, Air HQ, Aircraft Systems Testing Establishment, Software Development Institute and HAL for induction of Recce Pod assets. He designed and got fabricated a Missile Handling Trolley for transportation of Missiles within the danger buildings which substantially reduced effort and time in missile delivery to the Squadrons. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Arun Kumar Barik. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Sudhanshu Saxena 17278 AE(M) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 10 | Announced 26 Jan 10 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Sudhanshu Saxena (17278) Aeronautical Engineering (Mechanical) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as a Engineer in the Aeronautical Engineering (Mechanical) branch on 22 Aug 1983. He has held the appointments of Squadron Engineering Officer of MiG 21 Bis Squadron, Dy Director (Armt and Safety Eqpt) at Air HQ, Commanding Officer of a Base Repair Depot and Director of Studies at Defence Institute of Advanced Technology, Pune. The officer has undergone M.E (Air Armament) and System Engg Course. The officer was commended by CAS in Jan 1998. Gp Capt Saxena is presently posted at Air Force Station, Amla as Station Commander since 03 Sep 07. The mammoth demolition task of more than 1500 tonnes of life expired/ unserviceable armament stores, undertaken by the depot during his tenure has resulted in creation of additional Weapon Storage Accommodation all over Air Force and has been appreciated at all levels. Further, using his ingenuity, the officer had carried out modification in two storage sheds which led to enhancement of storage capacity of these sheds by 50% and has resulted in savings of about Rs. 90 lakhs to the exchequer. The officer had taken up the exercise of compilation of Armament Compendium and the same has been approved for issue by Air HQ. Gp Capt Saxena had planned and organised a two days International Symposium on air armament named AIRARM2008 at Amla which was highly successful and was found to be of immense value. Air Force Station Amla under the command of Gp Capt Saxena has undertaken the project of carrying out eco friendly disposal of various armament stores (by resorting to 'breaking down') in place of carrying out demolition, which resulted in reduced degradation of earth surface, vegetation and also increase in the scrap arising in the range of 90% to 355%. During the current task year itself, the additional yield generated has resulted in increase of revenue by Rupees Seven lakhs. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Sudhanshu Saxena. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Sunil Padegaonkar 17279 AE(M) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 10 | Announced 26 Jan 10 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Sunil Padegaonkar (17279) Aeronautical Engineer (Mechanical) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as an Engineer in the Aeronautical Engineer (Mechanical) branch on 22 Aug 1983. He has held appointments of Senior Engineering Officer of a MiG 23 Squadron, Squadron Commander Aircraft Technical Squadron of a MiG 29 flying base, Joint Director Personnel Officers (Mechanical) at Air HQ and Command Engineering Officer (A) in Maintenance Command. He was trained in MiG 29 overhaul technology in Russia and was instrumental in setting up overhaul line at 11 Base Repair Depot(BRD). He is functioning as Group Commander Maintenance Support Group at AF Stn Pune since 05 Nov 07. He was commended by Chief of the Air Staff Commendation on 08 Oct 95. Gp Capt Padegaonkar is a thorough professional with vast experience. His conceptual ability and foresight was evident when he handled planning and execution of techno-logistics activities for the international Red Flag Exercise held in Jul-Sep 08 in USA. His creative approach coupled with good understanding of practical difficulties led to significant achievements across the gamut of maintenance activities like Weapon Storage Area, Work Packages, Records and Handbook for Missiles, Online Fuel Testing, Hydraulic and Fuel discipline, Road safety, environmental improvements in Laboratories, Navigational Aids and Communication systems etc. He also ensured that the efficiency and effectiveness of maintenance activities was achieved by revamping Maintenance Control Centre and implementing easily accessible online maintenance software package for data retrieval, analysis and knowledge management. Gp Capt Padegaonkar initiated reliability studies for Su-30 MKI fleet and followed up with inputs for ARS and Rotable management. His guidance in setting up a robust system of spares management has resulted in mitigating the constraints of spares shortage. His grass root level experience and understanding of the needs of air warriors has resulted in a culture of continuous improvement in the Station. His thrust on result oriented approach and effective marshalling of available resources has culminated in AF Stn Pune being given the Best in Maintenance trophy in SWAC, IAF for year 2008. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Sunil Padegaonkar. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Manas Chatterjee 17356 F(P) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 10 | Announced 26 Jan 10 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Manas Chatterjee (17356) Flying (Pilot) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as a fighter pilot in the flying branch on 22 Dec 1983. He has been the Station Commander of Air Force Station, Tezpur since 17 Jan 08. The officer has approximately 2400 hrs of accident free fighter flying experience. He is a Qualified Flying Instructor, Fighter Combat Leader, an alumnus of Defence Services Staff College and a graduate of the Collage of Naval Warfare where he completed the Higher Command Course. He has commanded two operational units prior to his present appointment. He has been the Chief Operations Officer of a premier front line fighter base in the Western sector during Op Parakram where he single handedly planned and conducted several operational missions involving many types of aircraft and ground forces. The well planned deployment and smooth conduct of operations for a prolonged duration was well appreciated by all participating forces. The officer is presently posted as Director Air Staff Inspections. During his tenure as Station Commander, the officer has been an effective leader. With his extremely efficient management skills and immaculate planning, he has been able to ensure timely completion of several work services at Tezpur involving induction of new generation aircraft despite local problems and turbulence associated with the remoteness and location of the base. With his personal involvement and interaction, a mammoth task of Runway extension and resurfacing has been completed in record time. He has been wholeheartedly associated with Para 35 work services from concept to completion, involving renovation of outdated existing infrastructure in a record time of one year to facilitate induction of state of the art SU-30 aircraft at Tezpur which is a pioneering event for the Eastern Air Command. Several other projects such as 33 KVA independent feeder line renovation and air-conditioning of messes, airmen institute and improvement of water quality are in place which has substantially enhanced the quality of life of air warriors in the station. He has utilised his wide ranging experience in Operations to impart invaluable knowledge to the lodger units and support groups within the station. His critical analysis as well as focus on identifying systemic problems in the field related to flying, maintenance and environment has resulted in an impeccable flight safety record for the station. His dedicated effort and initiative has been instrumental in starting of projects such as integration of Tactical Air Defence Information Distribution System (TADIDS) in the AD network and energizing of the AF Net. During his tenure, the station has hosted the highest dignitaries of the nation and the IAF. Without exception, the contribution of this officer to the station has stood out and needs appreciation. For his outstanding professional competence, extreme dedication and distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Manas Chatterjee. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Rajan Sood 17378 ADM | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 10 | Announced 26 Jan 10 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Rajan Sood (17378) Administration was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in the Administration Branch on 22 Dec 1983. He is on the posted strength of Air Force Station, Gorakhpur since 07 Jul 08 and appointed as Chief Administrative Officer (C Adm 0). Gp Capt Rajan Sood has displayed utmost zeal and involvement during all significant field posts and staff appointments as an administrative officer. Earlier as Deputy Provost Marshal in year 1998, he took the responsibility and worked tirelessly to obtain Government sanction for Dog School and Squad, increase in scale of arms and ammunitions and scaling of X-ray baggage machine, communication equipment and security. Later he was especially tasked as Officer-in-Charge Air Force Auditorium where due to his proactive approach he ensured infrastructure facelift and improvement in general ambience of the auditorium. With sheer innovative thinking he improved upon interior decoration and reliability of operating equipment which has been appreciated by all. At the time of taking over as C Adm 0 at Gorakhpur, the station was facing fury of nature in the form of floods at that time. He immediately got involved and quickly worked out strategy to provide administrative support and relief to all affected personnel and worked towards recovery of airfield for operational activities. With his positive, helpful and practical approach, affected personnel were able to overcome their inconvenience and grief. Quick recovery of the airfield helped the station to undertake aid to civil authorities in other affected areas. Almost at the same time, the station had been gearing towards President Standard Presentation activities. A huge task was at hand especially due to telescoping of work since high water table delayed digging work. With his administrative skills and effective liaison, he formulated well laid out guidelines and ensured timely completion of over 52 works ensuring high quality by regular monitoring and conduct of all activities smoothly. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Rajan Sood. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Rakesh Kumar Ranyal 17402 MED | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 10 | Announced 26 Jan 10 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Rakesh Kumar Ranyal (17402) Medical was commissioned in Army Medical Corps and seconded to Indian Air Force on 14 Dec 1983. He is presently working as Director Medical Services (Human Resources) at Air Headquarter. An astute physician always aiming for professional excellence, he exhibited exceptional dedication and professional acumen throughout his career of 26 years in IAF, wherein at AF Station Naliya, for his remarkable search and rescue of CO 45 Sqn AF following ejection, he was awarded commendation by AOC-in-C HQ SWAC, IAF. While on deputation to Sultanate of Oman he formulated medical ops plan for Royal Air Force of Oman and was responsible for number of medical causality evacuation, including from mid sea, for which he was awarded 'Commendation by Chief of Royal Air Force of Oman'. As SMO 7 BRD AF, he established the SMC as first multispecialty polyclinic with weekly visits by all specialists from civil thus providing comprehensive quality medical care under one roof. For his dedication and innovations, he was awarded commendation by the CAS. He was instrumental in smooth medical causality evacuation from Suratgarh sector during 'Op Parakram'. As the first IAF MO posted to ECHS, he was actively involved in establishing ECHS Regional Centre at Secunderabad and 18 polyclinics in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. During the course of discharging his duties he always strove to attain perfection. At Air HQ (RKP), he was instrumental in realization of 'Electronic Medical Record & Data Management System' which resulted in huge savings of man-hours and organizational resources and early return of aircrew to flying duties. As DMS (HR), he not only maintained an optimal manning of medical and paramedical staff in the field but also, with humane touch, struck a remarkable balance between service requirements and individual's needs. He also streamlined HR policies related to medical branch, in tune with lAF practices, proactively in conjunction with Army/Navy and office of the DGAFMS. Exhibiting foresight, he took initiative to revise all the AFOs pertaining to HR Management of IAF Med/Dent officers and Med Assts. It was due to his diligence and active liaisoning with JCDNAFCAO, long pending audit objections pertaining to promotion DGNs could be settled and the procedure rationalized. Group Captain RK Ranyal has consistently displayed his initiative, organisational ability, capacity for sustained hard work and willingness to shoulder additional responsibilities even beyond the call of his duties. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Rakesh Kumar Ranyal. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Gurcharan Singh Bedi 17448 F(P) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 10 | Announced 26 Jan 10 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Gurcharan Singh Bedi VM (17448) Flying (Pilot) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as a fighter pilot in the flying branch on 08 Jun 1984. He was Flight Commander of a Fighter Squadron at Air Force Station Srinagar where he took active part in Op Vijay and was awarded Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry) on 15 Aug 1999. He commanded a MiG 21 Squadron, wherein, the squadron did not have any accident and also won the coveted Eklavya Trophy for winning the Gunnery Meet of Western Air Command (WAC). He has held the appointments of Air Force Examiner in the Aircrew Examining Board and Joint Director (Flying) in the prestigious Directorate of Air Staff Inspection. He was selected to lead the Indian Contingent in United Nation Peace Keeping Mission in Congo, where he led the contingent ably and completed the mission in a manner which earned accolade for the Indian Air Force. He was then posted as the Chief Instructor (Flying) at Air Force Academy. His dedication and involvement in his task ensured not only quality product but also accident free environment. He is currently commanding Air Force Station Sirsa, a frontline fighter base of Western Air Command. He is a Cat A Qualified Flying Instructor, Fighter Combat Leader and has undergone Air Staff Course. He is commanding Air Force Station Sirsa since 04 Feb 08. During his command he has made a number of value additions in the base on all fronts. The base has always performed exceptionally well in all the Air Force exercises. He also set example in professionalism for the young fighter pilots at base by winning a Gunnery Meet event. With his continuous zeal to perform, Air Force Station Sirsa got maximum number of works released in WAC and with the team work, ensured timely completion of the same, which changed the complete look of the Station and improved the quality of life of its air warriors. The changes brought in at the Air Force Station have been appreciated by one and all. He commanded the prestigious Air Force Day Parade on 08 Oct 08. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Gurcharan Singh Bedi VM. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Pramod Madhukar Puranik 17652 AE(M) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 10 | Announced 26 Jan 10 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Pramod Madhukar Puranik (17652) Aeronautical Engineer (Mechanical) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as an Engineer in the Aeronautical Engineering (Mechanical) branch on 20 Aug 19S4. He has held important appointments of Chief Engineering Officer (CEO) of a Forward Base, Air Force Examiner of Flight Engineers, Officer-in-charge of Main Hanger Line at No 3 Base Repair Depot (BRD), Senior Instructor (Technical) at College of Air Warfare and CEO of a helicopter and Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) base. As CEO at Air Force Station (AFS) Jammu, he maintained high serviceability of aircraft and overcame all odds to achieve 100% serviceability of UAV and MI-17 helicopters for the first time on 2S Dec 07. With foresight, meticulous planning and close coordination with repair depots, he maintained nil Aircraft on Ground status for seven months. He streamlined maintenance activity leading to 'Average Plus' grading by Directorate of Air Staff Inspection. He was responsible for installation and commissioning of second line servicing facilities for UAV He was commended by the Chief of the Air Staff in Oct 07. He is posted as CEO, AFS Chandigarh since 07 Jul OS. Despite several challenges, with his effective planning and foresight, he maintained high serviceability of the ageing AN-32, Mi-26 and IL-76 fleets. The high serviceability of IL-76 aircraft made it possible to launch these strategic assets for missions of national importance like relief operations to Kabul in Jul OS, flood relief operation to Bihar in Aug OS and commandos operations at Mumbai in Nov OS. With his professional vision and commitment, the base accomplished the first ever lS00 hrs servicing of AN-32 and 1500 hrs servicing of IL-76 aircraft flawlessly. He has been in the forefront in carrying out detailed study and analysis of complicated snags on AN-32, and in formulating procedures to avoid recurrence. He was actively involved in the study undertaken to investigate and suggest the repair scheme for frequent cracks on Main Rotor Blades of MI-26 helicopters. He empowered the air warriors to undertake retrieval of a Cat 'D' engine of IL-76, resulting in substantial savings. With his positive attitude and untiring effort, he has enhanced the operational preparedness through synergy between operation and techno-Iogistic activities. His all-round involvement includes campaigns undertaken to promote road safety awareness amongst air warriors. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Pramod Madhukar Puranik. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Rajendra Nalsingrao Gaekwad 17845 F(P) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 10 | Announced 26 Jan 10 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Rajendra Nalsingrao Gaekwad (17845) Flying (Pilot) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as Fighter Pilot in the Flying Branch on 14 Jun 1985. He is a qualified Flying Instructor and a Fighter Strike Leader with over 2500 h of accident free flying. He has been the Flight Commander of two premium fighter squadrons and the Commanding Officer a MiG-27 Squadron. He has been involved with Operations at Headquarters South Western Air Command since 21 Mar 2005, initially as Ops 1B and since 01 Aug 2007 as Ops lA. At this Command, he ensured the optimal and effective utilization of Annual Armament Training Stores in a near realistic scenario. He was instrumental in enhancing the operational and training capabilities of the Air to Ground Ranges at two places by ensuring the procurement and availability of target models and target system simulations. He coordinated the MiG-27 UPG programme from this Command and was responsible for planning the procedures and modalities of acceptance and operationalisation of the ac over an extended period of two years. Beyond his normal call of duty, in the year 2005, he used his local knowledge of Ahmedabad and Baroda to coordinate the flood relief efforts of SWAC. His ability to plan, organize, coordinate and deliver was on display during the Annual Gunnery Meet, "Exercise Eklavya 2005" and also during "Ex Desert Strike", the Joint Fire Power Demonstration with the Indian Army in 'C' Range at Pokhran. This Command has the distinction of conducting simultaneous operations with both Army and Navy, in addition to simultaneous and independent Air Operations. As Ops lA, his ability to plan, organize and conduct smooth operations has been on display in all the Command Level exercises. He has conceived and successfully conducted exercises to keep all the forces of this Command at the level of desired readiness. His foresight and personal involvement has enabled this Command to perform meritoriously in all International exercises. His initiative and attention to detail has resulted in the conduct of flawless Fire Power Demonstrations in 2007 and 2009. He has been instrumental in focusing on key operational issues, analysing situations accurately and incorporating the derived lessons into workable templates for Operational employment. With his ability to stay calm and composed in difficult situations, operate at optimum efficiency for extended periods of time, and multi tasking without compromising on either quantity or quality of work, he has been instrumental in South Western Air Command conducting its operations successfully and efficiently for the past four years. For his distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Rajendra Nalsingrao Gaekwad. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Basawaraj Mahadevappa Kannur 18201 AE(M) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 10 | Announced 26 Jan 10 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Basawaraj Mahadevappa Kannur (18201) Aeronautical Engineering (Mechanical) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as an Engineer in the Aeronautical Engineering (Mechanical) branch on 17 Feb 1986. In his 23 years of distinguished service as Technical officer, he has held important appointments of Chief Engineering Officer of a forward base, Directing Staff at Air Force Technical College, and Joint Director Eng A at Air HQ. He has achieved high professional and academic standards and has passed AMIE in the first division with distinction. For his professional contribution he was commended by AOC-in- C WAC in 1990 and by AOC-in-C TC in 1997. He was trained in UK on Hawk aircraft and posted to AF Station Bidar wef 23 Apr 07. As Chief Engineering Officer at AFS Bidar, he had the onerous task of setting up the entire technical infrastructure for induction of the Hawk aircraft into the Indian Air Force. For this, he involved himself deeply, conceptualised a road map, planned meticulously and orchestrated the entire technical team to set up the required information. He established Hawk TETTRA, Hawk Tech Flight, DSS of Hawk Operational Training Squadron (HOTS) A and HOTS B well in advance to facilitate commencement of training on schedule. He also formulated the technical procedures, servicing packages and task cards for Ground Crew. As a result of his hard and dedicated work the Hawk fleet has flown over 3000 hrs without any ground incident. In addition, he and his team worked meticulously while receiving new aircraft from UK and pointed out many deficiencies. Since these aircraft were still under warranty, the deficiencies could be made up without any cost to the IAF His leadership and professional acumen has led to optimum utilisation of the Hawk aircraft soon after induction into Service. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Basawaraj Mahadevappa Kannur. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Wg Cdr | Jatinder Singh Bedi 17491 ADM | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 10 | Announced 26 Jan 10 | |
| Details : |  Wing Commander Jatinder Singh Bedi (17491) Administration/Air Traffic Controller was commissioned in The Indian Air Force in the Administrative Branch on 08 Jun 1984. He is on the posted strength of Air Force Station, Srinagar with effect from 14 May 07 and has been functioning as the Deputy Chief Admin Officer and Squadron Commander Works & Environment Flight. The officer is a Defence Services Staff College graduate and has logged close to 2100 hrs as a Flight Navigator during his flying tenure. The officer has during his tenure in this frontline fighter base, infused a sense of operational orientation in the functioning of the Works Section. With a penchant for accuracy and details and by close interaction with the MES, he has exploited the provisions of the laid down rules, procedures and policies for planning work services. Leading his core team with excellent managerial and leadership skills, he has been instrumental in completing close to 15 major Board of Officers, many of which have been released and are now in the execution stage. He has maintained a very close and amicable interaction with the MES, Chief Engineer (AF) Udhampur and HQ WAC for scrutiny and processing of various proposals. It was due to this painstaking and result oriented approach, that the Station was sanctioned 65 works in 2008-09 under various categories, which is significantly higher than the previous years. With an eye on user satisfaction, he has monitored the progress of maintenance services as well as ongoing projects by frequent visits to sites and interaction with users. Leading from the front, the officer worked day and night during the heavy snowfall in Feb 2008, when all surface communications were disrupted. While the Chief Operation Officer supervised the runway clearance operations, Wg Cdr Bedi ensured interior road clearance & maintenance of essential services. Visiting MES installations even at midnight, he kept the motivation levels of the subordinate staff high and made the entire MES staff feel as a part of the station family. The Station was the first Wing to celebrate its Diamond Jubilee in May-Jun 08. The celebrations demanded time bound work services, which was ensured by the officer, by working in close liaison with the GE (I)AF and his staff. The Station Environment & Training Area was in a state of disuse. Utilizing the resources of the station and Army, the area has been cleared of wild vegetation with virtually no expenditure. The conservancy effort in the station has seen a marked improvement due to his strict and close monitoring. His commitment to the Service has been steadfast and of a high order For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Jatinder Singh Bedi. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Wg Cdr | Bishwajit Bose 19086 AE(M) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 10 | Announced 26 Jan 10 | |
| Details : |  Wing Commander Bishwajit Bose (19086) Aeronautical Engineer (Mechanical) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as an Engineer in the Aeronautical Engineering (Mechanical) branch on 05 Sep 1987. He is on the posted strength of 41 Repair and Salvage unit since 03 Sep 07. In his 21 years of distinguished service, he has held several important command and staff appointments that include Senior Technical Officer of two Fighter Squadrons, Commanding Officer of a AFRU, Senior Technical Instructor at a training institute. He is a post graduate of the Defense Services Staff College. Whilst being the Senior Technical instructor at AFTC, he performed credibly and ensured the establishment of distance learning for all technical officers of the Air force. As the CO of the AFRU he ensured maximum availability of the range and enabled firing of various types of weapons. He conducted two massive fire power demonstrations on the range with impeccable flight safety record. As senior technical officer of the fighter squadron he ensured 100 % serviceability on two occasions to ensure, no aircraft remains on prolong Aircraft on Ground (AOG). Both the fighter squadron where the officer was posted was adjudged as excellent by OASI in technical matters. For distinguished services rendered, he was awarded the AOC-in-C commendation in 2006. Wg Cdr B Bose was appointed as the Commanding Officer of an R&SU on 05 Sep 07. On taking over, he faced the challenge of providing structural repair to 18 different types of aircraft operating in an geographic stretch of more than 2500 Kilometers. Many of these aircraft did not have any support from the OEM which was erstwhile Russia. He studied the task thoroughly and restructured the repair schemes for these aircrafts. With his professional skills, he indigenized many repair methods with spares available in the various existing EO's of the Air force, which resulted in a saving of foreign exchange to the tune of Rs. 4.5 crores and above in book value adjustments. In addition to overhauling of aircraft, he also undertook significant additional tasks of repairs and modifications to the aircraft which was being done by the local Public Sector in the country. This involvement of his resulted in an improved response and huge reduction in downtime of these aircraft. All these tasks were achieved without any addition in manpower or other resources. Rather they led to net saving in the book value transfer in accounts of the public sector and the air force to the tune of Rs. 5.5 crores. Under Wg Cdr B Bose's leadership, the R&SU won the good-will and reliability of work output from all the CEOs of various aircraft bases in the command. He, with his foresight, accurate planning and perseverance, was able to provide a new purpose and direction to the personnel of the R&SU Indigenization, innovations and additional tasks undertaken under his guidance saved many lakhs of rupees in foreign exchange. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Bishwajit Bose. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Wg Cdr | Atul Garg 19653 AE(L) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 10 | Announced 26 Jan 10 | |
| Details : |  Wing Commander Atul Garg (19653) Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics) was commissioned in Indian Air Force as an Engineer in the Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics) on 11 Sep 1987. He was on the posted strength of 43 Wing, Air Force with effect from 28 May 2007 and was working as Chief Engineering Officer at the station till 01 May 2009. The officer has varied experience and has worked on AN-32 aircraft, functioned as Senior Instructor in AN-32 TETTRA School and also worked as Squadron Commander Indigenisation Cell of 1 BRD, AF. Wg Cdr Garg completed MTech in Maths Modelling and Simulation from IAT(DRDO) Pune in the year 1996 and also done his Staff Course from DSSC Wellington in the year 2000. The Officer had been commended by AOC-in-C in 1992 and by Chief of the Air Staff in the year 2007. As Chief Engineering Officer of the only flying station in Southern Air Command, he had enormous responsibilities to ensure high serviceability of aircraft and other technical resources of a very high standard. With his untiring efforts, he ensured excellent spares management, implementation of correct maintenance practices, effective and efficient scheduling of various servicing. He also made lot of efforts in maintenance support infrastructure development of the station. By his untiring efforts, 100% serviceability was achieved for MI-8 fleet from 13 Feb 08 to 24 Feb 08 and from 03 Sep 08 to 23 Sep 08. This station was tasked by Air HQ to conduct AN-32 Operators Conference which facilitates various operators of the fleet to discuss, deliberate and bring synergy for enhanced operational and maintenance safety. Conduct of this event required meticulous planning and liaison with various agencies. With his vision and dynamic leadership qualities, the event was conducted in befitting manner which was appreciated by AOC-in-C and SMSO of SAC. Planning of maintenance infrastructure facilities for upcoming Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Squadrons at this station was a highly challenging task. This task involved planning of maintenance infrastructure and completion of Board of Officers for planned facilities. The officer with his dedicated effort, exceptional hard work, foresight and vision for future was able to complete the assigned task. His other major contributions were timely implementation of AFNET project, improvement of Telephone Exchange and TP Cabin Complex, planning of three new labs in AN-32 Tech Fit and planning of MCC as centre of excellence. For his distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Atul Garg. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Wg Cdr | Bhartendra Singh 19874 F(P) | Unit : Training Command | Award Date 26 Jan 10 | Announced 26 Jan 10 | |
| Details : |  Wing Commander Bhartendra Singh (19874) Flying (Pilot) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as a Transport Pilot in the Flying Branch on 17 Dec 1988. He is a Qualified Flying Instructor who has held appointment of AF Examiner, Directing Staff (OS) at Transport Aircraft Operations Tactics Development Cell (TAOTDC) and is commanding the elite Strategic Reconnaissance Sqn. He is a fully operational pilot on Il-76, Il-78, 00-228, AN-32 and HS-748 holding Cat/IR A/MG on all types with a total of 6500 hrs of incident free flying to his credit. Wg Cdr Bhartendra Singh prior to assuming command, as OS at TAOTDC, galvanized the CONOP5 (Concept of Operations) for Battle Field Transport ac. He has evaluated the war time potential of AN-32 ac and formulated SOPs for Combat Offloading and CSAR (Combat Search and Rescue}.The survivability of transport platform in TBA has increased manifold by the tactics and EW ethos indoctrinated by him. The officer was responsible to cement strong tactics and evaluation methodology during the nascent stage of the institution and push-started the first ever Transport Combat leader (TCL) course in the IAF He was also chosen as the pilot representative to evaluate C-130 J special operational ac during its demonstration flight in India by the United States Air Force. During his command of the HS-748 SR Sqn, he has single handedly designed and conceded PC based Moving Map Display for Aerial Survey role. This seamless integration of technology has saved approximately Rs. 4.5 crores to the exchequer by providing precision amounting to near 100% acceptance of survey photographs. It has also enabled real time predictions of photo errors, which in turn has resulted in fool proof mission accomplishment. He was the harbinger of 'self help' resource utilisation in the decades pending unserviceability of the ICC (Interval Central Computer), the heart of survey camera, which was repaired in house by the core team. This resulted in a direct saving of Rs. 56.8 lakhs to the IAF and importantly boosting the earlier depleted operational efficacy. The unique and first ever concept of two ac Buddy Mode Survey Role on Avro ac was developed and operationalised under his guidance. This mode has undoubtedly provided a cutting edge in planning consideration for commanders during time restraint contingencies in any op requirement. Additionally, his leadership and personnel involvement at all levels evoked the culture of team spirit which resulted in unit performing excellently in sports and adventure activities. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Bhartendra Singh. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Wg Cdr | Kaustubh Apte 22234 LGS | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 10 | Announced 26 Jan 10 | |
| Details : |  Wing Commander Kaustubh Apte (22234) Logistics was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in the Logistics Branch on 19 Dec 1992. He is presently working as Joint Director (Adventure) at Air Headquarters. In his 17 years of service, Wg Cdr K Apte has consistently performed his demanding duties in an exemplary and highly professional manner and has many firsts to his credit. While posted as System Administrator, IMMOLS(integrated Materials Management Online System) at an Air Stores Park during 2000-02 he infused computerised warehouse and Inventory management concepts and carried out the first replication of e-transactions between Air HQs and 56 ASP, AF which was witnessed by the CAS. Again as Chief Logistics Officer and SA IMMOLS at an Equipment Depot, because of this devotion to duty and attention to detail, he undertook the mammoth task of computerising the entire depot activities and made it the first e-audit certified unit by the CDA, AF ,As Staff Officer to Air Officer-in-Charge Maintenance at Air Headquarters, Wg Cdr K Apte revamped the entire dataflow and Management information System in the entire Maintenance Branch at Air HQ. He also used his IMMOLS background to introduce and enforce 100 percent e-clearance of all the proposals leading to quicker resolving of the problem of material deficiency across the IAF He singlehandedly executed numerous work services to give the branch a new corporate look. He is recipient of Commendations by the AOC-in-C and Chief of the Air Staff. As Honorary Secretary (Air Force Sports Complex), his exceptional efforts to go above and beyond the call of duty led him to get involved in the entire gamut of complex activities in such a way that a new look sports complex today compares and even surpasses some of the best sports-cum-club facilities in the National Capital region of Delhi. He has been instrumental in redesigning, extending and relaying four greens on his own thus improving the playing facility on one hand and generating savings of Rs. 10 lakhs to the complex. With his sharp financial acumen and enforcement of stringent financial measures, Wg Cdr K Apte successfully cleared bad debt to the tune of Rs. 8 lakhs outstanding since past 10 years. Various value additions like installation of RO Plant, Ice making machines, introduction of e-billing have resulted in an annual savings of approximately Rs. 13 lakh. Thus with his personal initiatives, Wg Cdr K Apte has successfully raised lakhs of rupees in revenue for improvement of the sports and recreational activities in the complex. Additionally, the complex today boasts of an 8 % growth rate from a negative growth rate, a couple of years back. He has demonstrated exceptional organising capability and singlehandedly managed various mega sports events like the Captain Trophy, AOC-in-C Trophy etc. Since his arrival, Wg Cdr K Apte has shown exceptional professional ability, initiative and loyal dedication which has not only given impetus to the sports culture but has also has been a morale booster for the troops. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Kaustubh Apte. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Wg Cdr | Vishwa Vikram Singh 23825 LGS | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 10 | Announced 26 Jan 10 | |
| Details : |  Wing Commander Vishwa Vikram Singh (23825) Logistics was commissioned in Indian Air Force in Logistics branch on 16 Dec 1995. He is presently posted at Air Headquarters as Staff Officer to Marshal of the Air Force. In his 14 years of distinguished service he has held important field and staff appointments that include Logistics Officer of two prestigious fighter bases, Senior Logistics Officer of a Communication Unit, Staff appointment at Air HQ in Directorate of Jaguar and Mirage . While working at Air Force Station Ambala and Gwalior, Wg Cdr VV Singh looked after the provisioning, procurement and Aircraft on Ground (AOG) management for Jaguar & Mirage 2000 fleets. Using his professional knowledge, foresight, planning and involvement, he speeded the process of dispatch, repair and receipt of Line Repair Units (LRUs) at the base thereby helping in maintaining the serviceability of two fleets to 75%. This resulted in decreasing the number of AOG demands and timely provisioning of spares from indigenous and foreign vendors. The professional attitude demonstrated by him, in his working with his seniors and subordinates was praised by one and all. As a young Flight Lieutenant, he headed the Logistics team for shifting of TACDE from its old to new location in 2001. 30,000 lines of items were shifted by air and road without any damage and discrepancy. Besides this, due to his in-depth study in aircraft spares management, he was able to back load 1790 lines of Jaguar and 1300 lines of Mirage spares to depot. He was awarded the AOC-in-C commendation in 200l. Wg Cdr W Singh's other major contributions in Logistics activities at Stations he worked at, included streamlining function of Local Purchase Cell by increasing the quantum of cash purchase from authorised dealers, door to door delivery of cleaning material, on line and self service counter issue of clothing before implementation of IMMOLS software, modernisation of MT and MTR&S and cross training of different trades for optimum utilisation. He was awarded with CAS commendation in 2006. During his tenure at Air HQ, he efficiently pursued repair contracts for M-2000 fleets and was fully involved in its finalisation after 2 V2 years of hectic negotiations. This resolved the deadlock with the French OEM's for repair support. In his current assignment as Staff Officer to Marshal of the Air Force, he is excellently performing his duties in highest dignity. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Vishwa Vikram Singh. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| WO | Kottarathil Chandrasekaran Parameswaran 683957 OR | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 10 | Announced 26 Jan 10 | |
| Details : | 683957 Warrant Officer Kottarathil Chandrasekaran Parameswaran Radar Fitter was enrolled in the Indian Air Force as a Technician in the Radar Fitter trade on 11 Jun 1983. During his 26 years of distinguished service, the Warrant Officer has time and again proved his technical competency and professionalism. WO Parameswaran, while on the posted strength of Air Force Station, Gwalior, was instrumental in resolving major technical issues related to Mirage 2000 ac by rectifying multilayered Printed Circuit Boards of Automatic Test Equipment Complex which otherwise would have been sent to France. The WO by his dedicated efforts directly contributed in enhancing the Operational efficiency of the fleet and has ensured huge savings to the exchequer. For his technical competence he was commended by the AOC-in-C,HQ CAC on 26 Jan 95. During Operation "PARAKRAM", a number of Self Protection Jammer pods used by fighter Squadrons were lying unserviceable at Aircraft System Testing Establishment, Bangalore. These Pods had a peculiar problem which could not be detected by the available Test Bench. The WO with his technical acumen and professional competence identified the faults and recovered the pods which then could be effectively utilized for the Operations. This has tremendously enhanced the Operational efficiency of the IAF The WO for his distinguished service was commended by the CAS on 26 Jan 03. The WO has been on the posted strength of Software Development Institute. Bangalore since 23 Oct 06. During his tenure at this Institute, the WO has been responsible for various technical innovations which have resulted in increased Operational efficiency of the IAF and has also ensured huge savings to the exchequer. He was instrumental in recovery of the Engine Test Bench held by Air Force Station, Kanpur which was used for testing the R29 Engines of MiG-27 ac. This has ensured improved serviceability and availability of the R29 Engines. The WO has also successfully indigenised the Israeli supplied Pre-Flight Message Generator for the Electronic Warfare (EW) Pods wherein, all the Message Generators were lying unserviceable due to aging and obsolescence. This has ensured effective utilization of the EW pods by the fighter Squadrons thus improving the Operational efficiency of the IAF The WO with his software competence undertook the development of Event Analysis software for Health Monitoring and Debrief system for the MiG 27 Upgraded ac. The application has been highly appreciated by the user Squadrons as a good post flight analysis tool, and thus has tremendously enhanced the Operational efficiency and training of pilots. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Warrant Officer Kottarathil Chandrasekaran Parameswaran. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
The Awards Database presented here was made possible by the kind generosity of Air Marshal Bharat Kumar, author of Courage & Devotion to Duty : A Chronicle of IAF's Honours and Awards (1932-2008). Air Marshal Bharat Kumar had very graciously given permission to reproduce the citations from the book on this website.
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Note: All the data available here is publicly available in the Gazette of India, published by the Indian Government, or from public domain sources, press releases about Awards and Right-To-Information (RTI) Requests. Additionally data shared by veterans is added to the page with permission. No data with respect to serving officers below the rank of AVM is displayed. Information in Gazette of India and Award citations and photographs as released by the Indian Air Force are the only details displayed.