A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam, commonly known as Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, was an eminent Indian scientist, aerospace engineer, and statesman. He served as the 11th President of India from 2002 to 2007 and was widely regarded as the “People’s President” due to his deep connection with the masses and his inspirational leadership.
Born on October 15, 1931, in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, India, Abdul Kalam hailed from a modest family background. Despite facing financial challenges, he excelled in academics and showed a keen interest in science and technology from an early age.
Abdul Kalam obtained a degree in aeronautical engineering from the Madras Institute of Technology in 1958. He then joined the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and later the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), where he played a crucial role in various space and missile development projects.
Some of his notable contributions in the field of science and aerospace include the development of India’s first indigenously developed Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV-III), which successfully launched the Rohini satellite into space in 1980.
Dr. Kalam’s most significant achievement came when he led the development of India’s integrated guided missile program. Under his leadership, India successfully developed ballistic missiles like Agni and Prithvi, contributing to India’s strategic deterrence capabilities.
Apart from his scientific contributions, Abdul Kalam was a prolific writer and motivational speaker. He inspired millions of people, especially the youth, with his vision for a developed India and his emphasis on the power of knowledge, education, and hard work. He was fondly referred to as the “Missile Man of India” for his contributions to missile technology.
In 2002, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was elected as the President of India, and during his tenure, he continued to connect with people from all walks of life, especially students. After completing his term as President in 2007, he remained an active advocate for education, youth empowerment, and social welfare.
Tragically, Dr. Kalam passed away on July 27, 2015, while delivering a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Shillong. His sudden demise was met with an outpouring of grief from the entire nation and beyond, as people mourned the loss of a visionary leader, scientist, and a true humanitarian. His legacy continues to inspire and motivate generations of Indians to strive for excellence and work towards the progress of the nation.
see also
Integrated Guided Missile Development Program
Defence Research and Development Organization
Prithvi missile