Air Marshal M Baladitya, Vishisht Seva Medal has taken over as Senior Maintenance Staff Officer (SMSO) at HQ Maintenance Command, Indian Air Force on 13 Aug 2018. He was commissioned in 1983 in the logistics branch of Indian Air Force. He possesses a Master of Science in Defence Studies and is an alumnus of prestigious Defence Services Staff College, Wellington and National Defence College, New Delhi.
During his long and illustrious career, he has held numerous important command and staff appointments both at field and at Air Headquarters. He has served at several premier frontline flying bases of Indian Air force, and has also commanded 42 Equipment Depot, 57 Air Stores Park and 24 Equipment Depot. He was also CLMO of HQ Central Air Command. The Air Officer has held the appointment of Assistant Chief of Air Staff Procurement at Air Headquarters. His multifaceted experience also includes prominent responsibilities as seasoned administrator in different capacities. He was Manager of the Indian Cricket Team 2005-2006. He held this appointment for five tours against Pakistan, Srilanka and South Africa. Before taking over the present assignment he was Chairman and General Manager of Canteen Stores Department at the Mumbai Head Office.
He has been an avid sportsman and has represented Services in Nationals in Squash. He was Air Force Squash Champion on five occasions. A decorated Air Warrior, he was commended by AOC-in-C in 1992 and by CAS in 1999. For his distinguished service of very high order, the Air Officer was conferred with Presidential award of Vishisht Seva Medal in the year 2009. He is married to Mrs Usha Baladitya who is an educationist.
His vast experience in logistics management and expansive administrative acumen will strengthen functioning at HQ Maintenance Command as one of the Principle Staff Officer at HQ Maintenance Command.
