Vir Chakra (VrC)

During the operations against Pakistan in December 1971, Squadron Leader lqbal Singh Bindra was commanding a detachment of a fighter bomber squadron at a forward airfield. On 17 December, while on a combat air patrol, he spotted one enemy F 104 approaching the airfield. He engaged it before it could launch an attack on the airfield. Finding tough opposition, the enemy aircraft abandoned the mission and attempted to escape but Squadron Leader Bindra pursued the aircraft and shot it down. 

In addition to carrying out operational duties, he also ensured a high rate of aircraft serviceability. Throughout, Squadron Leader Bindra displayed gallantry, professional skill and devotion to duty of a high order.