Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam: The Missile Man of India
Posted On January 25th, 2023 By Celebrity Biographies
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, also known as the “Missile Man of India,” was a renowned scientist and the 11th President of India, serving from 2002-2007. He was born on October 15, 1931, in the small village of Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, India. He came from a humble background and had to work hard to achieve success in his life.
Early Life and Education
Dr. Kalam was the youngest of five siblings, and his father was a boat owner. Despite financial difficulties, his family placed a strong emphasis on education. Kalam completed his early education in Rameswaram and later graduated in Physics from St. Joseph’s College, Trichy in 1954. He then went on to study aerospace engineering at the Madras Institute of Technology, graduating in 1960.
Career in Aerospace Engineering
After completing his education, Dr. Kalam joined the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) as a scientist. He worked on the development of the country’s first indigenous satellite launch vehicle, SLV-3, which was successfully launched in 1980. He also played a key role in the development of the Prithvi and Agni missile systems. In recognition of his contributions, he was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1981 and the Padma Vibhushan in 1990 by the Government of India.
A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Presidency
In 2002, Dr. Kalam was elected as the 11th President of India, becoming the first scientist and the first bachelor to hold office. During his presidency, he was known for his focus on the development of science and technology, education, and the welfare of the poor. He also worked to promote the use of technology for the betterment of society and was known for his emphasis on the need for a strong, developed, and self-reliant India. He was also a strong advocate for the “Youth of India” and emphasized the importance of providing opportunities for their growth and development.
During his presidency, Dr. Kalam launched several initiatives such as the “India Vision 2020” which aimed at making India a developed nation by 2020, the “Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana” which aimed at providing all-weather road connectivity to unconnected villages, and the “Swarnajayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojana” which aimed at promoting self-employment opportunities in rural areas. He also played a key role in the nuclear tests in Pokhran in 1998, which established India as a nuclear power.
Post-Presidency
After his presidency, Dr. Kalam returned to his first love, teaching. He was a visiting professor at several universities and also established the “Kalam Centre for Scientific Policy and Research” in 2011. He also wrote several books, including his autobiography “Wings of Fire” and “Ignited Minds: Unleashing the Power Within India.”
Death Of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam
Dr. Kalam passed away on July 27, 2015, due to a cardiac arrest while delivering a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management, Shillong. His death was mourned by the nation, and he was accorded a state funeral with full state honors.
Legacy Of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s legacy lives on through his contributions to the field of science and technology, his emphasis on education, and his efforts to make India a developed nation. He continues to be an inspiration to many, especially the youth of India.
References:
- “A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.” Encyclopedia Britannica.
- “Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.” India President.
- “A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.” The Hindu.
- “Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam: Visionary and Inspiration.” The New Indian Express.
- “A.P.J. Abdul Kalam: A Life.” BBC News.
