A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
⚠️ Needs Review: This article may require verification, improvement, or additional references.
| [[File:|250px|frameless]] | |
| Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam | |
| Born | 15 October 1931 (age 93) Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, British India |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Indian |
| Education | |
| Alma mater | |
| Occupation | Aerospace Scientist, Author, Professor |
| Years active | 1958–2015 |
| Known for | Pokhran-II nuclear tests, Missile Development, Presidency |
| Notable works | Wings of Fire, Ignited Minds, India 2020, Turning Points |
| Awards | Bharat Ratna, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan |
| Spouse(s) | None |
| Children | None |
| Parents | Jainulabdeen (father), Ashiamma (mother) |
| Religion | |
| Website | Official Website |
Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam (15 October 1931 – 27 July 2015) was an Indian aerospace scientist, educator, and author who served as the 11th President of India from 2002 to 2007. Known as the "Missile Man of India" for his work on the development of ballistic missiles and space technology, he was widely respected across political, religious, and age boundaries in India.[1]
Early Life and Education
Kalam was born in a modest Muslim family in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu. His father was a boat owner and imam. Despite economic challenges, Kalam excelled in studies and had a deep interest in mathematics and science.[2]
He studied physics at St. Joseph's College, Tiruchirappalli, and later pursued aerospace engineering from the Madras Institute of Technology (MIT).[3]
Scientific Career
Kalam joined the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in 1958 and Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in 1969. He was the project director of India’s first satellite launch vehicle (SLV-III), which deployed Rohini satellite in 1980.[4]
At DRDO, he played a crucial role in developing India’s strategic missiles: Agni and Prithvi. He was instrumental in the Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998, which established India as a nuclear state.[5]
Presidency (2002–2007)
In 2002, Kalam was elected as the 11th President of India with bipartisan support. As a “People’s President,” he was known for connecting with the youth, traveling extensively, and encouraging innovation and education.[6]
Post-Presidency and Teaching
After leaving office, Kalam returned to public life as a visiting professor at institutions such as:
- Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Shillong
- Anna University
- Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST)
He continued to write and speak, inspiring youth across the country.
Death
On 27 July 2015, while delivering a lecture at IIM Shillong, Kalam collapsed due to cardiac arrest and passed away at the age of 83. He was laid to rest at Rameswaram with full state honors.[7]
Legacy
Kalam received India's highest civilian award, the Bharat Ratna, in 1997. He remains a role model for youth and is remembered for his humility, vision, and commitment to national development.
Several institutions, scholarships, and memorials have been named after him, including:
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam Technical University (AKTU), Lucknow
- Kalam Island (Wheeler Island), Odisha
Notable Works
- Wings of Fire (Autobiography)
- India 2020: A Vision for the New Millennium
- Ignited Minds
- Turning Points: A Journey Through Challenges
- Transcendence: My Spiritual Experiences with Pramukh Swamiji
See Also
References
- ↑ https://www.britannica.com/biography/A-P-J-Abdul-Kalam
- ↑ https://www.abdulkalam.com/kalam-theme/kalam-biography/
- ↑ https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2022/oct/15/on-dr-kalams-birth-anniversary-heres-a-look-at-the-life-of-missile-man-of-india-2507871.html
- ↑ https://www.isro.gov.in/launchers/slv.html
- ↑ https://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-pokhran-ii-india-s-second-nuclear-test-1018827
- ↑ https://presidentofindia.nic.in/former-presidents.htm
- ↑ https://www.hindustantimes.com/india/kalam-passes-away-nation-mourns-loss-of-missile-man/story-k0GyfYdX7nO0z4cb63D4cL.html