Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam

Biography

A.P.J. Abdul Kalam full name Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam was an Indian aerospace scientist and statesman who served as the 11th President of India from 2002 to 2007. He was born on October 15, 1931, in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, India, and passed away on July 27, 2015, in Shillong, Meghalaya, India.

Early Life and Education

Abdul Kalam was born into a Tamil Muslim family. His father, Jainulabdeen, was a boat owner and imam of a local mosque; his mother, Ashiamma, was a housewife. Despite coming from a financially challenged background, Kalam was determined and diligent in his studies. He attended Schwartz Higher Secondary School in Ramanathapuram before moving to St. Joseph's College, Tiruchirappalli, from where he graduated in physics in 1954. Later, he went on to study aerospace engineering at the Madras Institute of Technology (MIT).

Career in Science and Technology

Kalam joined the Aeronautical Development Establishment of the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) as a scientist after graduating from MIT. He later moved to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), where he was the project director of India's first Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV-III), which successfully deployed the Rohini satellite in near-earth orbit in July 1980.

Known as the "Missile Man of India," Kalam played a pivotal role in India's civilian space program and military missile development efforts. He was instrumental in the development of the Agni and Prithvi missiles. His work earned him several prestigious awards, including the Padma Bhushan (1981), the Padma Vibhushan (1990), and the Bharat Ratna (1997), India's highest civilian honor.

Presidency

In 2002, Kalam was elected the 11th President of India, becoming the first scientist and the first bachelor to occupy Rashtrapati Bhavan. During his presidency, he was widely known as the "People's President" due to his approachable demeanor and dedication to young people. He made efforts to engage with India's youth and inspire them to contribute to national development, often emphasizing the importance of education and innovation.

Post-Presidency

After leaving office in 2007, Kalam remained active as a visiting professor at various institutions and continued his involvement in academia and public service. He authored several books, including "Wings of Fire," an autobiography, "Ignited Minds," and "India 2020," which aimed to inspire and motivate young Indians.

Legacy and Death

Kalam passed away on July 27, 2015, while delivering a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management Shillong. His death was widely mourned across India and the world. Kalam's life and work continue to inspire millions, particularly for his contributions to science, education, and his vision for a developed India.

Personal Traits

Kalam was known for his simple lifestyle, humility, and strong ethical and moral standards. He was a vegetarian and a firm believer in spirituality, drawing inspiration from both Islamic and Hindu traditions. His dedication to his country and his vision for its future made him a beloved figure in Indian society.