APJ Abdul Kalam, whose full name was
Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam, was an Indian scientist, statesman, and
the 11th President of India. He was born on October 15, 1931, in Rameswaram,
Tamil Nadu, India, and passed away on July 27, 2015, in Shillong, Meghalaya,
India.
Kalam hailed from a modest background
and his early years were spent in Rameswaram, where he grew up in a close-knit
family. He had a strong desire to learn and explore from a young age. Kalam
graduated in physics from St. Joseph's College, Tiruchirappalli, and later
pursued aerospace engineering from the Madras Institute of Technology. He
specialized in Aeronautical Engineering and earned his degree in 1958.
Kalam's career began at the Aeronautical
Development Establishment of the Defence Research and Development Organization
(DRDO), where he worked on projects related to India's missile and space
programs. He made significant contributions to the development of ballistic
missiles, including the successful launch of the Agni and Prithvi missiles.
In 1992, Kalam became the Chief
Scientific Adviser to the Prime Minister of India and the Secretary of the
Defense Research and Development Organization. During this time, he played a
crucial role in coordinating India's nuclear tests in 1998, earning him the
nickname "Missile Man of India." Kalam's immense knowledge,
dedication, and vision made him a highly respected figure in the field of
science and technology.
In 2002, Kalam took office as the 11th
President of India, serving a five-year term until 2007. As President, he
focused on transforming India into a developed nation by 2020 through
initiatives such as the "Vision 2020" plan. He was known for his
down-to-earth personality, approachability, and his ability to connect with
people, especially the youth of the country.
After his presidency, Kalam continued to
inspire and engage with the youth, traveling extensively across India to
deliver lectures and interact with students. He emphasized the importance of
education, particularly in the fields of science and technology, as a means to
uplift the nation and improve the lives of its citizens.
APJ Abdul Kalam was a prolific writer
and authored several books, including "Wings of Fire," an
autobiography that documented his early life and career. His books, speeches,
and interactions with the public aimed to instill a sense of motivation,
perseverance, and national pride among the Indian populace.
On July 27, 2015, Kalam suffered a
cardiac arrest while delivering a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management
Shillong. He passed away shortly after, leaving behind a legacy as one of
India's most beloved and respected figures. APJ Abdul Kalam's contributions to
science, technology, and his inspirational leadership continue to inspire
generations in India and beyond.