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Awardee List for the year 2011
A total of 67 Awards are listed.
Param Vishist Seva Medal : 6 | Ati Vishist Seva Medal : 12 | Shaurya Chakra : 1 | Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry) : 20 | Vishist Seva Medal : 28 |
 Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
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| Gp Capt | Musunuri Durga Nageswara Prasad 17741 ADM | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 11 | Announced 26 Jan 11 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Musunuri Durga Nageswara Prasad (17741) Administration was commissioned in Indian Air Force as an Administration branch officer on 21 Dec 84. He is on the posted strength of Headquarters South Western Air Command (HQ SWAC) with effect from 27 Apr 09 and since then functioning as Command Works Officer. The officer has vast experience in the management of Works Services in the IAF. He has been a Deputy Chief Administrative Officer at two important air bases of IAF and has officiated as Chief Administrative Officer on many occasions. He has been a member of the prestigious Directorate of Air Staff Inspection team on innumerable occasions inspecting almost all stations of the IAF.The officer has also been in this Command Headquarters as OIC Pl looking after discipline and awards for a period of nearly two years. During his tenure as an inspector in the Directorate of Administrative Inspection team, the officer contributed significantly by providing a template for the administrative war plans of Stations and Commands, As a team member he undertook a study on reasons for the delay in execution of Works Services for new inductions. The study report has helped IAF in reworking out the method of executing Works Services through the turn key projects. To help the personnel at the field units, the officer was instrumental in producing a compendium of Works Services for C Adm 0 which was circulated to all units, This has helped in improving the knowledge levels of personnel dealing with Works Services. As a Command Works Officer in HQ SWAC, he has planned and executed Works Services of about Rs.300 crores annually, He planned meticulously and liaised with many agencies to expedite the completion of the Works Services by Day and Night specially the prestigious Fire Power Demonstration that showcased IAF's capability. The officer with his foresight and forward planning, ensured that the Works Services were planned and completed well before the due dates, Similarly, the officer was thoroughly involved in the President's Standard Presentation at Jodhpur. This demanded meticulous planning and fast pace of works without compromising quality. His relentless involvement in ensuring development of the projects at Chiloda, land acquisition at Ozhar, initiation of Works at Deesa and completion of Works Services of airfield at Phalodi, are examples of his utmost dedication and perseverance, For distinguished service of high order, Hon 'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Musunuri Durga Nageswara Prasad. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Sanjay Nimesh 17862 F(P) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 11 | Announced 26 Jan 11 | |
| Details : |  Air Commodore Sanjay Nimesh (17862) Flying (Pilot)was commissioned as a pilot in the Fighter stream on 14 Jun 85 and is on the posted strength of the Directorate of Air Staff Inspection (DASI) from 01 May 09. The officer has more than 3000 hours of flying experience and is Fully Ops with Master Green rating on MiG-29 aircraft. He has also flown Su-30, Mirage -2000, Jaguar, MiG-21 Bis and MiG-21Fl aircraft. He is a Qualified Flying Instructor, Fighter Combat leader (FCL) and an alumnus of Defence Services Staff College. He has previously been commended by the Chief of Air Staff and Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief. The officer has commanded a MiG-29 squadron. Thereafter, he performed the duties of a Directing Staff at Defence Services Staff College (DSSC), Wellington. His ability to impart knowledge and guide the minds of young commanders to focus towards good operational solutions was noteworthy. At the Air Headquarters, he performed the duties of Director (HRM and Policies) in a praiseworthy manner. His dedication and perseverance resulted in resolution of a case (under process at Ministry of Defence since 1978) on the issue of "Dispensation of Extension Clause in Retirement Ages for Group Captain and Air Commodores of Flying Branch and Air Vice Marshals of all Branches". He has been Chief Operations Officer of a premier Su-30 base. During the present tenure as Director (F&B) at DASI, the officer has been an extremely effective Leader of the Flying/lnspection Team that inspects the flying bases and squadrons. During the course of inspection, he has flown on all fighter fleets to standardise the professional standards of fighter units while himself displaying exceptional professional standards. During inspections, besides inspecting, he also imparts valuable knowledge to the field units and sets high professional standards to achieve operational goals of the IAF. The epitome of his contribution has been conceptualisation and formulation of 'Revised Op Inspection' procedure to validate the current IAF 'Concept of Operations'. Due to the officer's immaculate planning, the schedule of inspection has progressed smoothly and the entire backlog has been completed. The innovative operational thinking by the officer has immensely contributed in refinement of the operational edge of IAF. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Air Commodore Sanjay Nimesh. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Pushpendra Kumar 18002 AE(M) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 11 | Announced 26 Jan 11 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Pushpendra Kumar (18002) Aeronautical Engineering (Mechanical) was commissioned in IAF on 19 Aug 85 in the Aeronautical Engineering (Mechanical) stream. He is presently posted at Air Headquarters as Director Engineering A2 Bison fleet since 16 Mar 09. The officer is trained and has vast experience on MiG-21 fleet. He held the appointments of Senior Technical Officer at MiG 21 Squadrons, Adjutant and Flight Gunner Leader of IL-76 Squadron, Chief Engineering officer of a fighter base, Joint Director and Director MiG-21 (Bison) Maintenance cell at Air Headquarters. He was instrumental in achieving "Best Transport Squadron Trophy" in HQ WAC in year 1999 and 2000 consecutively. His professional acumen and exemplary managerial skills as Senior Engineering Officer not only enabled the MiG-21 Squadron to achieve 100% serviceability twice, once each in year 2002 and in 2004, but also enabled the Squadron to get adjudged as the "Best Fighter Squadron of Western Air Command" in year 2002. As Chief Engineering Officer of a fighter base, his leadership, immaculate planning and flawless execution ensured the coveted "Best Maintenance Trophy" in HQ SWAC, for the base in 2004. Gp Capt Kumar has been managing MiG-21 Bison maintenance cell since May 06. During upgradation of the fleet, there were many production, reliability, scaling, repair and procurement issues creating a situation full of complex variables resulting in poor Fleet availability. During the period of his work in maintenance cell of Bison, Officer identified and simplified all aspects affecting the fleet. Reliability issues of all upgraded systems resulting in Low MTBF other than Kopyo have been addressed fully. Kopyo reliability has increased from a dismal value of 5 hrs in beginning to 112 hrs against a design MTBF of 120 hours. Parallelly his judicious management of limited spares resulted in completion of series production of Bison aircraft at HAL, Nasik in Mar 08. Spares costing Rs 200 Cr have been contracted after undertaking revision of rotable scale. Multiple options created by him for the repair of aggregates, with a thrust on indigenous solutions through the participation of private sector, will result in saving in repair cost of aggregates. For distinguished service of high order, Hon 'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Pushpendra Kumar. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Shiv Ratan Singh 18083 F(P) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 11 | Announced 26 Jan 11 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Shiv Ratan Singh, VM (18083) Flying (Pilot)was commissioned as a fighter pilot in the flying branch on 06 Dec 85. He has flown the Mig 21 aircraft in various appointments. A Fighter Combat Leader, who stood first in his course, he has served as Directing Staff in Tactics and Air Combat Development Establishment (TACDE)for 2 tenures. He has commanded a frontline Bison Sqn and also served as a flying inspector in the Directorate of Air Staff Inspection (DASI) prior to becoming Chief Operational Officer of Air Force Station Jodhpur. An alumnus of Defense Services Staff College, the officer was awarded CAS commendation in 1994. As Deputy Commandant TACDE, he contributed in the formulation of air combat tactics and conduct of Indo-Saf Exercise Cope India 05. For his exceptional devotion to duty he was awarded Vayu Sena Medal in 2007. The officer had been the Station Commander at Air Force Station Suratgarh from 03 Nov 08 to 24 Mar 10. He led from the front, setting a personal example to form a well knit team brimming with confidence, trust and motivation. His focus on operational preparedness and enhancement of combat potential has ensured high operational state of all combat units of the Station. This was amply proved during the DASI visit when the station was adjudged Average plus in operations and maintenance. The Station maintained a very high serviceability status and a good aviation safety record with involvement of all personnel. His leadership and personal bonding with his team down to the grassroots level resulted in the Station performing well in all facets including sports. His personal involvement ensured that the support services provided the impetus to operational potential, enhanced quality of life and high morale. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Shiv Ratan Singh, VM. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Vivek Pillai 18217 AE(L) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 11 | Announced 26 Jan 11 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Vivek Pillai (18217) Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics) was commissioned in IAF as an engineer in the Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics) branch on 17 Feb 86. He is posted as Station Commander at AF Station Kanheri Hills since 16 Mar 09. Gp Capt Pillai has been involved in AFNET project since its inception, conceptualization, design and implementation in the past six years. At Air Headquarters, he was leader of the team that prepared the operational requirements, technical specifications and scope of work for the AFNET encompassing wide range of equipment, systems and technology verticals. He was also team leader in technical and financial evaluation for AFNET tender and the IAF representative in Price Negotiation Committee (PNC) of BSNL/DoT under Ministry of Communication and Information Technology. Owing to his domain expertise and understanding of all nuances of the AFNET implementation, the PNC could secure an unprecedented discount of Rs. 82 Crores on the least quoted of Rs. 674 Crores (12 %) even in such intensive bidding. In his last tenure at Technical Training School in Bangalore as Chief Instructor, the officer was instrumental in establishment of AFNET lab and formulation of training structure for preparing the work force of air warriors to operate and maintain the new next generation technology based AFNET in the IAF. He also conducted the design validations and engineering trials from the AFNET lab in association with the System Integrator and Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM). At AF Station Kanheri Hills, on assuming charge, the officer lost no time in setting a number of initiatives on the road to completion, like expeditious implementation of network at pending sites while sustaining the network services at already implemented sites, establishing a three tier Network Management System, providing clarity and directions for device configuration, new services validation and migration, upgradation and adaptation, service tuning etc. All such initiatives contributed immensely in operationalising the AFNET. The successful roll out of AFNET owes to his dynamism and technical acumen. Technical leadership of Gp Capt Pillai has almost always been sought before higher management decisions are taken in the domain of AFNET. He has not only contributed in laying the foundation of the gigabit information expressway with the state-of-the-art-next-generation equipment but also converted the blue print towards the realization of the IAF's 'Combat Network'. With well defined procedures on Network Service Operations, Service Transition and Continual Service Improvement (CSI), today the AFNET is all set to meet the organizational requirement in the sphere of Network Centric Operations. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Vivek Pillai. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Sanjay Kumar Pandey 18477 AE(L) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 11 | Announced 26 Jan 11 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Sanjay Kumar Pandey (18477) Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics)was commissioned in the IAF as engineer in the Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics) branch on 18 Aug 86. During his tenure in the IAF, the officer held the important appointments of Commanding Officer Air Force Institute of NBC Protection (AFINBCP) and Commanding Officer of a Wireless Experimental Unit (WEU). As Commanding Officer, AFINBCP he was instrumental in establishment of the NBC Quick Reaction Team in IAF having capability to undertake aerial survey of nuclear contaminated area. He also formulated a course on Nuclear and Radiological Emergencies Response which is now a regular affair. While commanding a WEU in the eastern sector, he experimented with innovative methods to overcome the topographic barrier which led to major breakthrough in signal technology. Thus, the officer made an effective contribution towards enhancement of op capability of the unit. Presently the officer is working as Director Operations (Information Warfare) at Air HQ since 27 Apr 09. The officer has proactively initiated several projects in the IW field related with Offensive IW, Defensive rw and IW training. These efforts have led to building up of significant IW op capability in collaboration with sister services and NTRO. To counter threats from Internet domain he has been instrumental in development of a Linux based Operating System named 'VAYUSENIX' for safe browsing. The tool has been approved for deployment on all the internet PCs (Approx 600) within the IAF and on the PCs being utilized by the Air Attache deployed in various embassies. In addition to enhancing the overall security posture of the IAF, the in-house development has resulted in enormous savings to the exchequer. He conceptualized and implemented an IW training model, within the existing resources, to ensure training of all new incumbents joining IAF. This system will sensitise the ab-initio trainees in the domains of Network and Information security and will go a long way in serving the IAF in times to come. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is please to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Sanjay Kumar Pandey. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Ashutosh Dixit 18558 F(P) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 11 | Announced 26 Jan 11 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Ashutosh Dixit, VM (18558) Flying (pilot) was commissioned on 06 Dec 86 as a fighter pilot. In his 23 years of distinguished service, he has flown 3200 hours on more than 20 types of aircraft. The officer is a Qualified F1yingInstructor and an Experimental Test Pilot. He has been an instructor at the Air Force Test Pilots School, CO of a newly formed Mirage-2000 squadron and also of the Flight Test Squadron. He is presently Director Air Staff Requirements Medium Multi Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) at Air Headquarters. As Commanding Officer of the newly formed M-2000 squadron, the officer was instrumental in setting up all the facilities and the squadron commenced operations in shortest possible time. The squadron maintained highest serviceability in the fleet and during DASI inspection was graded the best squadron of the fleet under his command. As the Officer Commanding F1ight Test squadron, the officer directed the indigenous upgrade projects for Jaguar and MiG-27 aircraft, took active part in them and brought them to a logical conclusion, thus adding significant operational capability to IAF. The officer was then made responsible for all aspects of MMRCA procurement for the IAF. MMRCA is a very important project for the IAF where the outcome would shape the IAF's operational capability for decades together. Under the leadership of Gp Capt Dixit, the technical evaluation of six very complex offers was completed in record time. The officer was instrumental in the planning and conduct of the Field Evaluation Trials for all the six participants. The field evaluations were very complex in nature. The complete spectrum of the aircraft operations, radar, EW systems and weapons were to be evaluated. While the evaluations were comprehensive in nature, the guidelines of Defence Procurement Procedures were also followed meticulously. Equal opportunity and level playing field was provided to each participant. This was done by creation of a trial methodology that encompassed every aspect of evaluation. The officer led the team and took part in all stages of the trials. He undertook flying on different types as test pilots. His flight test acumen, analytical skills and in-depth grasp of the flight test procedures demonstrated during the field evaluations. The field evaluations were conducted in the most professional manner and were completed on schedule. The professional conduct of field evaluations was acknowledged by participating foreign air forces and industry. They also stated that they have never undergone such a meticulously conducted trials. The report preparation was undertaken by the officer diligently and was done exceptionally well so that Staff Evaluations at Air HQ can be carried out appropriately. The officer has shown extra-ordinary ability of foresight, planning and execution during the field evaluation trials of MMRCA aircraft The officer is disciplined, motivated and dependable and has displayed his ability to undertake complex tasks. His demeanor and conduct during the evaluations was of a very high standard and was impressive. For his professionalism, thorough knowledge and distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Ashutosh Dixit, VM. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Surat Singh 18563 F(P) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 11 | Announced 26 Jan 11 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Surat Singh, VM (18563) Flying (Pilot)was commissioned into the fighter stream of Flying Branch on 06 Dec 86. In the last 24 years he has been actively involved with fighter operations in various capacities. During this period he has held important assignments/appointments of Directing Staff at TACDE, DASI Inspector, and Commanded an ASF Squadron designated as "Core Group Squadron", Station Commander of an ADDC and is presently Commandant TACDE. He is a graduate of the Australian Command and Staff Course. He has been commended by AOC-in-C twice and during his command tenure the Sqn was adjudged The Best Fighter Sqn in WAC for two consecutive years. He was awarded Vayu Sena Medal for his tenure as Commanding Officer of 223 Sqn. During his tenure as Station Commander the Station was adjudged the Best Station in Command. Since Jan 09 as Commandant TACDE, he has relentlessly pursued the goal of enhancing the Op Potential of IAF by imparting high end Operational training to all the officers and men who undergo various courses at TACDE. Parallelly the developmental tasks have also been moving at a rapid pace specially related to AWACS and Helicopters. Night flying has been introduced for the first time in the FCL course and night missions with NVG has also been introduced in HCL course. TACDE was slated to receive President's Standard in Nov 09. The information was received just about six months before the event. Knowing fully well the extent and level of activities involved, he went ahead and conducted the FCL course alongside the preparations for the mega event. Despite the constraints of time and resources, all the Operational training, developmental tasks and functions associated with President's Standard Presentation were conducted without any compromise on the quality at any stage. The meticulous planning of all the tasks, coordination at various levels, motivating his team of officers and men ensured that all events were conducted in an exceptional manner. In the last sixteen months the Establishment has flown over 5000 sorties/ 3500Hrs involving Fighters, Helicopters, Transport aircraft and UAVs, with a clean flight safety record. For distinguished service of high order, Hon 'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Surat Singh, VM. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Laly Joseph 18643 LGS | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 11 | Announced 26 Jan 11 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Laly Joseph (18643) Logistics was commissioned in the Logistics branch on 06 Dec 86 and is presently posted as Commanding Officer of 31 MCU since 18 Jul 08. A thorough professional logistician with vast and varied experience, he has held various important appointments which include CO 102 MC Dett., CLO AFLE (ND), SLO 5 Wg, JD DMI Air HQ, CLO UN Mission and CLASO HQ WAC. The officer is also an alumnus of DSSC and CDM. A dynamic officer gifted with an excellent blend of vision, planning skills, and creative ability, he has an array of achievements during his service span of 24 years. As a young Fit Lt entrusted with the ceremonial duties at AF Stn New Delhi, the officer's dedicated efforts saw the Air Force Contingent achieving the best RD Parade Contingent for which he was commended by CAS. As OC MC Dett, he facilitated the expeditious movement of Army formations during 'Op Vijay' and was awarded commendation by GOC-in-C. As CLO of AFLE HAL Nasik Division, his involvement and effort in AOG management was recognized and he was commended by the AOC-in-C. His contribution to logistics preparations for then Indo-US exercise, 'COPE THUNDER' at 5 Wg and his outstanding performance as CLO of UN Mission has won laurels and accolades from various quarters both within and outside the IAF. 31 MCU, one of the oldest Lgs units of the IAF, is the principal transportation hub and crucial link in the supply chain management between ED/BRDs and field units. An industrious and indefatigable officer, Gp Capt Joseph on taking over as CO 31 MCU, set about creating a centre of excellence in transportation management by building new infrastructures and launching innovative solutions in transportation management. Rapid Asset Movement Plan (RAMP) 09-10 undertaken by the officer to turn around the unit in a short span resulted in the achievement of "seamless transportation" and Nil load status on two occasions. Introduction of new transportation modes like CONCOR container services and civil courier enabled the unit to substantially reduce the dependency on scarcely available service aircraft. He strived for constant innovation and improvement in the working environment and took to introduce new MHEs like, Heavy Duty Cargo Conveyor system and 10 Ton Fork Lift so as to substantially improve the mechanical handling of load. Streamlining of import/export activities and creation of online tracking facility not only prevented any demurrage charges but also resulted in much faster import clearance contributing to an improved fleet serviceability. The conceptualizing and sanctioning of new security lounge and new courier complex will tremendously enhance the passenger facilities. For this outstanding performance, his Unit was also adjudged as best MCU consecutively for two years. For distinguished service of high order, excellent planning skills and individual initiative in creating a centre of excellence in transportation management, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Laly Joseph. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Gabriel Raymond Rueben 18814 F(P) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 11 | Announced 26 Jan 11 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Gabriel Raymond Reuben (18814) Flying (Pilot) was commissioned as a Pilot in the Flying branch on 13 Jun 87. He held the appointment of Commanding Officer of a strategic Signal Unit from 07 Apr 08 to 18 Apr 10. In his capacity as Commanding Officer of the Air Defence unit, he was vested with the responsibility of the Air Defence of the entire southern peninsula south of Bangalore till the island nation of Sri Lanka. Towards this task, the unit had to maintain a very high degree of readiness to tackle any 26/ 11 type attack on its sensitive vital points/vital areas. To increase the situational awareness in the Operations centre, radar pictures of all the forward deployed radars were transmitted by an indigenously designed software. This facilitated display of a composite radar picture of air space covered by military and civil radars. Coupled with this integration, VOIP R/T was developed to facilitate the reception and transmission from the Ops room using the R/T sets of forward deployed radars. These unique efforts were well received and appreciated during the Commanders conference in 2009. But for the professional approach and keen operational outlook of Gp Capt Rueben, the coordination and efficacy of this system would not have been validated. At the Signal Unit commanded by Gp Capt Reuben a successful segregation of the TADIDS system from the concurrently running Campus Area Network (CAN) was achieved thereby eliminating any chances of malware spread through either system. Keeping in mind the Air Force vision to work towards a paperless office, the number of computers were increased and graduated to server based (ActiveDirectory) services, thus facilitating central storage of data. The unit was also the first to be installed with a close circuit TV system on its perimeter fence and has been designated as the IACCS node for South. Gp Capt Reuben remained relentless in his efforts to ensure the success of the projects. For distinguished service of high order, unflinching loyalty to the service and selfless devotion to duty, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Gabriel Raymond Reuben. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Ashish Dureha 19074 AE(M) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 11 | Announced 26 Jan 11 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Ashish Dureha (19074) Aeronautical Engineering (Mechanical) was commissioned as Aeronautical Engineer (Mechanical) on 05 Sep 86. The Officer is posted as Chief Engineering Officer (CEO) at Air Force Station, Bareilly with effect from 08 Jun 09. He commanded Su-30 TETTRA School and was a member of Indian Air Force Training Team at Botswana. The officer was posted to Su-30 TETTRA School during the induction phase of the Su-30MKI. He set up of the training facilities for Su-30 MKI ,compiled Training Notes and Servicing Schedules. He was the Senior Engineering Officer of the first night strike Squadron and was involved in number of successful modifications on MiG-27 aircraft. 11 recommendations made by him as a member of Study Group for Preventing Fire Hazards on MiG-23/27 were successfully implemented. As CEO, he supervised resurrection of a new Su-30MKI squadron and operationalised the avionics laboratory, mechanical and role equipment laboratories at the station. His proactive approach, managerial skills and ability to synergise resources has contributed immensely in creating an ideal flying environment at the station. Under his guidance and supervision the station achieved and maintained an excellent serviceability of both Su-30 MKI and helicopters and over 96% serviceability of common user and specialist vehicles. He arranged for training of personnel to undertake structural repair, fuel tank repair and cable loom repair thereby reducing the down time of Su-30 MKI from four weeks to one week at the station. Under his leadership the station successfully inducted the Reconnaissance systems for Su-30MKI, installed and operationalised the first 40 ton Arrester Barrier, Surveillance Radar Element and Precision Approach Radar. His ingenuity helped the station recover an aircraft air-conditioning trolley declared 'Beyond Economical Repair' by the manufacturer, which saved Rs 33 lakhs to the exchequer. He was instrumental in implementing numerous innovative measures to improve efficiency and safety of various equipments held at the station. A proof of his excellent leadership was displayed when the station personnel re-exploded 68 x 1000 pound bombs in a single day. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Ashish Dureha. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Gp Capt | Sushant Dutta 19243 LGS | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 11 | Announced 26 Jan 11 | |
| Details : |  Group Captain Sushant Dutta (19243) Logistics was commissioned in IAF on 19 Dec 87. In his 23 years of service, he has held important staff and field appointments that include Logistics Officer of two major bases, Senior Logistics Officer of a prestigious fighter base and staff at three operational command HQs. He was commended by VCAS in 1994 and subsequently by CAS in 1997. For his unmatched professionalism and courage at UN Mission Congo, he was awarded Mention-in-Despatches in 2005. The officer has progressively enhanced his professional knowledge and has achieved exemplary core competency in his branch. As Senior Logistics Officer of a front line fighter base, he proved his mettle in handling exercises, detachments and unforeseen exigencies. While on the posted strength of HQ WAC, his analysis of critical AOGs and spare management was instrumental in reducing a large number of outstanding AOG of almost all aircraft fleets during OP PRAKARAM. As part of the first batch of IAF Contingent for UN Mission Congo, the officer was instrumental in the entire planning, procurement and dispatch of complete inventory required by the contingent for a year long operation in a foreign land where no local support was available. At Congo, the setting up of the camp with the accommodation, offices, messes and external services was squarely on his shoulders. He fulfilled the responsibilities to the highest levels of satisfaction of the entire team of 300 personnel including feeding the entire contingent for a month with ration from India not having reached. Sustained hard work and positive attitude led to his appointment as Staff Officer to the VCAS and CAS. He has demonstrated outstanding managerial qualities and vision in steering the multifarious activities of the Secretariats. His constant monitoring and periodical reviews of all tasks have ensured efficient administration of the offices. He has demonstrated exceptional organizing capabilities and managed large scale events while always cutting costs and ensuring value for money. For distinguished service of high order, Hon 'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Sushant Dutta. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Wg Cdr | Deepak Bana 18742 AE(L) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 11 | Announced 26 Jan 11 | |
| Details : |  Wing Commander Deepak Bana (18742) Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics) was commissioned in the IAF on 16 Feb 87. He is a Qualified Aeronautical Engineer Instructor and has served as Chief Training Instructor at Jaguar TETTRA School. A sound professional, he was selected for course abroad at SNECMA for Mirage engine's fuel accessories. Subsequently, he worked on three types of aero engine test beds at 4 BRD and also undertook long pending modernization of Viper engine test bed thereby contributing significantly to flight and maintenance safety . As a Senior Engineering Officer (SEO), he maintained highest personal standards of professionalism and conduct. Leading from front, he was instrumental in inspiring his subordinates to raise their level of performance continually. In 2002 the squadron successfully carried out operations during Exercise Gauntlet. Due to his meticulous planning and absolute dedication not a single mission was cancelled. During the tenure of SEO at 14 Squadron in 2002, while working with exceptional zeal and motivation, Squadron's maintenance was graded as Above Average by Directorate of Air Staff Inspection. High standard of maintenance practices and strict technical discipline ensured no accident / incident due to Human Error (Servicing). In 2004-07 at Air HQ, he was instrumental in evaluation of Fixed Price Quote evaluation of Jaguar ac/accessories. His dedicated efforts and proactive approach was instrumental in large savings to the exchequer. Modification of fuel flow and warning indication system of Jaguar ac suggested by him is presently under fleet compliance. He has skillfully dealt with contracts for ac upgrade as well as induction of new Jaguar ac and contributed in the smooth formation of a new squadron. In 2008-09, as Squadron Commander Signals at 20 Wing, he undertook number of projects including renovation of Air Traffic Control, Surveillance Radar Equipment/Ground Control Approach ops room, communication nodes etc, to improve the flying environment for safe flying. It was due to his ingenuity, complete dedication to the cause and sheer hard work that the station was able to maintain all Nav-aids and obsolete communications systems in fully serviceable and reliable condition thus ensuring unhampered operations. His personal involvement, craving for best quality and able leadership proved highly inspiring for his subordinates and resulted in excellent team work. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Deepak Bana. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Wg Cdr | Chellappan Pillai Ratnamma Sreeji 20286 AE(L) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 11 | Announced 26 Jan 11 | |
| Details : |  Wing Commander Chellappan Pillai Ratnamma Sreeji (20286) Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics), a graduate in Electronics and Communication Engineering from Madurai Kamaraj University, was commissioned in IAF on 04 Sep 89. In his 21 years of distinguished service, he held several important appointments such as Senior Technical Officer of a Missile Squadron, Senior Signal Intelligence Officer in a Wireless Experimental Unit, Senior Engineer (Electronics) of a front line fighter base before assuming charge as Joint Director (Trade Standards & Testing) at Air HQ. For his meritorious service, he was commended by AOC in C, WAC and VCAS in 2008 and 2010 respectively. As the Senior Signal Intelligence Officer posted to a WEU, he conducted several signal intelligence trials along the line of control, paving way to strategic relocation of one of its sub-units resulting in enhanced signal intelligence availability. As SE (L) at 35 Wing, he was instrumental in setting up AFNET ahead of the PDC with meticulous planning and close liaison with BSNL. His concern for optimum utilization of resources led to surrender of unused hired lines of BSNL resulting in annual saving of Rs.5 lakhs. Showing exemplary devotion to duty, innovation and initiative, he also undertook overhaul of arrester barrier at the base itself, which is otherwise a BRD level task, ensuring availability of arrester barrier for uninterrupted flying. Consequent to the frequent changes in the training patterns of airmen, the Airmen Promotion Examination (AIRPEX) system underwent major changes during the last three years. As JD Edn (TS&T) at Dte of Edn, the officer ensured smooth change over of the AIRPEX system. Nearly 40,000 airmen belonging to three different patterns of training (ATT, EPT and MPT) are now being flawlessly examined every year. The officer also initiated a case for rectifying the existing mismatch between Skill Grades awarded by the Examining Boards and the Annual Assessments of airmen. His proposal of linking the ACR with Skill Grades has been accepted and the revised policy is under issue. This policy is aimed at motivating airmen to go for higher skill grades there by improving the overall efficiency of the IAF. Further, to improve the efficiency of the AIRPEX system, he proposed for a yearly system against the existing half yearly system with substantial financial savings as well as large scale reduction in mass movement of personnel. The yearly system is scheduled to be introduced with effect from Jan 2011. Also, the Online AIRPEX system conceived by the officer is under implementation. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Chellappan Pillai Ratnamma Sreeji. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| Wg Cdr | Prakash Angadi 24126 AE(M) | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 11 | Announced 26 Jan 11 | |
| Details : |  Wing Commander Prakash Angadi (24126) Aeronautical Engineer (Mechanical) was commissioned in the IAF in the Aeronautical Engineer (Mechanical) branch on 27 May 96. During his 14 years of service, the officer held various appointments at Wings, Helicopter Units, BRD and also served in UN mission at Congo. He was awarded AOC-in-C's commendation in 2004. On 06 Dec 09, Mi- 17 IV hepter 2-3352 while on a routine air maintenance sortie over Siachen Glacier, crash landed at Chungtash at an altitude of 15,786 feet. With in a week a team was launched headed by the officer to assess the damage and make the ac safe to withstand the harsh winters. The officer and his team went about the task using all available improvised material not conventionally used and made the ac safe. The officer was subsequently nominated to head the recovery team. He went about the task meticulously and in a professional manner. The damaged ac was beyond repair capability of 3 BRD, hence an ingenious repair scheme had to be worked out. The repair scheme was first tried and tested out on a rejected structure. Having fully equipped the team was launched in Apr 10 for acclimatization and induction. Meticulous planning of nearly 32 sorties of load was undertaken while the weather continued to be unpredictive. On 20 May 10, the team was finally able to reach the site and in 12 days carried out the repairs. During the entire period Wg Cdr Prakash exhibited excellent leadership by keeping the team cohesive and boosting their morale. He worked shoulder to shoulder with his men and carried out the repairs with no compromise to flight safety. The exemplary physical strength, mental toughness, dedication and professionalism exhibited by the officer coupled with his leadership qualities resulted in a near impossible feat of lifting off a crashed hepter at the altitude of 15,786 feet a possibility. The hepter has since then flown 5 sorties and inducted for detailed examination. For his dedicated effort, distinguished service of high order, very high degree of professionalism and sprit-de-corps displayed, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Prakash Angadi. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| MWO | Daljit Khokhar 659970 OR | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 11 | Announced 26 Jan 11 | |
| Details : | 659970 Master Warrant Officer Daljit Khokhar Weapon Fitter was enrolled in the Indian Air Force as a weapon fitter on 24 Aug 77. He presently functions as the Warrant Officer in charge weapon section in a SU-30 MKI Squadron. As a supervisor, MWO Khokhar has been working with utmost dedication and has set exceptional standards by his personal involvement. He has worked relentlessly to achieve high serviceability state of Role Equipment in the unit. MWO Khokhar is a team man who involves himself in all activities with utmost sincerity and devotion towards fructification of team goals. In Nov 2009, the unit was tasked to participate in the specialist weapon camp at 32 Wing. The task was to validate the Standard Operating Procedures for ground testing and live firing of X-29, X-59, KAB-500KR, KAB-5000D and Griffin LGB. All the weapons except X-59 were tested and successfully fired. MWO Khokhar was instrumental in validating all SOPs and successful live firing of all specialist weapons. There were no failures reported in air during the camp. During Ex-Mahavayushakti 2010 which showcased the weapon delivery capability of the IAF,MWO Khokhar worked relentlessly to ensure all the armament sorties went as per plan without compromising on the standards and the associated safety aspects. During this detachment, a total of 15 aircraft were prepared in various armament configurations on a daily basis. Despite additional tasking for the Su-30 detachment in the exercise, the MWO inspired his entire team of armament tradesmen to work undeterred towards successful completion of the assigned task. Due to his initiative and involvement, over 150 sorties were flown towards the exercise, all involvingdifferent types of armament load, without a single weapon failure or incident. For distinguished service of high order, Hon 'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Master Warrant Officer Daljit Khokhar. | ||||
| Reference: | Air Force Day Booklet | ||||
| Vishist Seva Medal | |||||
| JWO | Rajender Kumar Yadav 695575 OR | Unit : -N.A.- | Award Date 26 Jan 11 | Announced 26 Jan 11 | |
| Details : | 695575 Junior Warrant Officer Rajender Kumar Yadav Air Frame Fitter was enrolled in the IAF on 23 Jan 85 in the air frame fitter trade. In his 25 years of distinguished service, he has held various important appointments in fighter aircraft squadrons, training institute and at Repair & Salvage unit. He has undergone MCF on Canberra and Jaguar ac and is also a qualified instructor. He was awarded AOC-in-C's commendation in 2008. In Jan 10, he was selected as part of a team to recover MI-17 IV helicopter that crash landed during a routine air maintenance sortie at Chungtash at Siachen glacier. The crash site was at an altitude of 15786 ft and temperature ranging from -25°C to 10°C. The helicopter sustained extensive damage to its nose also, floor board structure, starboard main landing gear and tail boom. No repair scheme exists for damage of this extent and 3 BRD has never carried out such recovery. The JWO painstakingly drew up a repair scheme, selected the required material and extensively practiced and repair with his other team mates on a rejected structure. His knowledge of workshop techniques, machinery and Russian material came in handy while perfecting the repair practice. During acclimatization and induction at high altitude, his other structural repair team members could not make it to the crash site. However, this did not deter the JWO from accepting the challenge single handedly. During the 12 days stay at Chungtash under adverse weather conditions, the JWO exhibited exemplary physical strength, mental toughness, dedication and professionalism and carried out the task to the perfection. The helicopter not only flew out from that high altitude, it subsequently did five sorties before landing at its base for detailed inspection. For his outstanding performance and distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Junior Warrant Officer Rajender Kumar Yadav. | ||||
| 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.