A . P . J Abdul Kalam
1931 - 2015
Missile Man of India
Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam 15 October 1931 – 27 July 2015) was an Indian aerospace scientist who served as the 11th president of India from 2002 to 2007. He was born and raised in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu and studied physics and aerospace engineering. He spent the next four decades as a scientist and science administrator, mainly at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and was intimately involved in India's civilian space programme and military missile development efforts.[1] He thus came to be known as the Missile Man of India for his work on the development of ballistic missile and launch vehicle technology.[2][3][4] He also played a pivotal organisational, technical, and political role in India's Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998, the first since the original nuclear test by India in 1974. Here is a full biography of Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, one of the most inspiring scientists in India: --- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam (1931–2015) Full Name: Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam Born: October 15, 1931, in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, India Died: July 27, 2015, in Shillong, Meghalaya, India --- Early Life Abdul Kalam was born into a humble Tamil Muslim family in the small town of Rameswaram. His father, Jainulabdeen, was a boat owner, and his mother, Ashiamma, was a homemaker. Though financially constrained, his family imbued him with values of honesty, discipline, and hard work. Young Kalam was bright and inquisitive. He sold newspapers as a child to support his family while pursuing his education. He was fascinated by flying and aerodynamics, which later inspired his career in aerospace science. --- Education Kalam attended Schwartz High School in Ramanathapuram and later graduated in Physics from St. Joseph's College, Tiruchirappalli. His passion for aeronautics led him to pursue a degree in Aerospace Engineering at the Madras Institute of Technology (MIT). --- Career as a Scientist Kalam began his career in 1960 at the Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), where he worked on a hovercraft project. However, his major contributions were at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), where he joined in 1969. Contributions to ISRO Played a pivotal role in developing India's first satellite launch vehicle, SLV-3, which successfully deployed the Rohini satellite in 1980. Known for his leadership and technical acumen, he made significant advancements in India’s space program. Work in Missile Technology Kalam returned to DRDO and became the chief architect of India’s missile program. He was instrumental in the development of: Agni: A long-range ballistic missile. Prithvi: A surface-to-surface short-range missile. His contributions earned him the title "Missile Man of India." --- Role in India's Nuclear Program In 1998, Kalam played a crucial role in India’s Pokhran-II nuclear tests, which made India a nuclear power. His work symbolized India's scientific and defense capabilities and inspired national pride. --- As the President of India (2002–2007) Kalam was elected as the 11th President of India with overwhelming support. He became known as the "People's President" for his accessibility, humility, and deep connection with the youth. During his tenure, he emphasized: Education and youth empowerment. The vision of transforming India into a developed nation by 2020. Scientific innovation and self-reliance in technology. --- Post-Presidency and Vision for India After completing his presidency, Kalam continued to inspire the youth through lectures, books, and initiatives. His vision document, "India 2020", outlined a roadmap for making India a developed country. He also became a visiting professor at various universities and delivered motivational speeches globally. --- Books by Abdul Kalam Kalam authored numerous books to inspire future generations, including: 1. Wings of Fire (An autobiography). 2. Ignited Minds. 3. The Luminous Sparks. 4. My Journey. 5. India 2020: A Vision for the New Millennium. --- Awards and Honors Bharat Ratna (1997) – India’s highest civilian award. Padma Bhushan (1981) and Padma Vibhushan (1990). Honorary doctorates from 40 universities worldwide. --- Death and Legacy On July 27, 2015, Dr. Kalam passed away while delivering a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management, Shillong. His death left the nation in mourning. Legacy: The Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam Memorial was established in his hometown. His birthday, October 15, is observed as World Students' Day. Kalam continues to inspire millions with his message of dreaming big, working hard, and serving the nation. --- Would you like details about another scientist?
Biographies
- Eternal Quest: Life and Times of Dr Kalam by S Chandra; Pentagon Publishers, 2002.
- President A P J Abdul Kalam by R K Pruthi; Anmol Publications, 2002.
- A P J Abdul Kalam: The Visionary of India by K Bhushan, G Katyal; A P H Pub Corp, 2002.
- A Little Dream (documentary film) by P. Dhanapal; Minveli Media Works Private Limited, 2008.
- The Kalam Effect: My Years with the President by P M Nair; Harper Collins, 2008.
- My Days With Mahatma Abdul Kalam by Fr A K George; Novel Corporation, 2009.
- A.P.J. Abdul Kalam: A Life by Arun Tiwari; Haper Collins, 2015.
- The People's President: Dr A P J Abdul Kalam by S M Khan; Bloomsbury Publishing, 2016.