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Biography of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam
Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, famously known as the "Missile Man of India," was a visionary leader, scientist, and statesman whose life continues to inspire millions. Born on October 15, 1931, in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, Dr. Kalam's journey from humble beginnings to becoming the 11th President of India is a story of determination, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Early Life and Education

Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam was born into a Tamil Muslim family. His father, Jainulabdeen, was a boat owner, and his mother, Ashiamma, was a homemaker. Despite financial hardships, his parents ensured that their children received an education. Young Kalam was particularly influenced by his father’s values and his mother’s kindness.

Dr. Kalam displayed an early interest in academics and an unquenchable curiosity about the world around him. He attended Schwartz High School in Ramanathapuram, where he excelled in mathematics and science. Later, he pursued a degree in Physics at St. Joseph's College, Tiruchirappalli, and went on to study aerospace engineering at the Madras Institute of Technology (MIT). This marked the beginning of his illustrious career in science and technology.

Career as a Scientist

Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam’s career began at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), where he worked on a hovercraft project. However, his passion for aeronautics led him to join the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in 1969. At ISRO, Dr. Kalam played a pivotal role in developing India’s first satellite launch vehicle, SLV-3, which successfully deployed the Rohini satellite into orbit in 1980.

The success of SLV-3 established Dr. Kalam as a leading figure in Indian aerospace science. He later returned to DRDO, where he spearheaded the Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP). Under his leadership, India developed a series of indigenous missiles, including Agni, Prithvi, Akash, Trishul, and Nag. These advancements earned him the title of “Missile Man of India.”

Contribution to India's Defence

Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam’s work extended beyond missile technology. He played a key role in India’s nuclear program, particularly the Pokhran-II nuclear tests conducted in 1998. These tests cemented India’s position as a nuclear power on the global stage. Dr. Kalam’s contributions to India’s defense capabilities were monumental, and he was instrumental in making the nation self-reliant in critical technologies.

Visionary Leadership

While Dr. Kalam was a brilliant scientist, he was also a visionary leader who dreamed of transforming India into a developed nation. His book, India 2020: A Vision for the New Millennium, co-authored with Y. S. Rajan, outlines a roadmap for India’s development. He believed in leveraging science and technology to eradicate poverty, improve healthcare, and enhance education.

Dr. Kalam’s vision for India was rooted in empowering the youth. He frequently interacted with students, inspiring them to dream big and work hard. His speeches and writings emphasized the importance of creativity, innovation, and self-confidence in achieving success.

The People's President

Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam was elected as the 11th President of India in 2002, succeeding K. R. Narayanan. Fondly referred to as the "People’s President," Dr. Kalam’s tenure was marked by accessibility, humility, and a genuine concern for the welfare of the nation. He used the platform to engage with students, scientists, and policymakers, advocating for a vision-driven India.

As President, Dr. Kalam focused on projects that could uplift the underprivileged and bring about sustainable development. His initiatives included PURA (Providing Urban Amenities in Rural Areas), which aimed to bridge the urban-rural divide by ensuring access to quality infrastructure and services in rural areas.

Awards and Recognitions

Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam’s contributions to science, technology, and nation-building earned him numerous accolades. He was honored with the Padma Bhushan in 1981, the Padma Vibhushan in 1990, and the Bharat Ratna in 1997, India’s highest civilian award. His achievements were also recognized internationally, with honorary doctorates from over 40 universities.

Dr. Kalam was a recipient of several prestigious awards, including the King Charles II Medal from the Royal Society, the Hoover Medal, and the Von Braun Award. These accolades reflect his immense contributions to humanity and his unwavering commitment to advancing knowledge.

Personal Life and Values

Despite his achievements, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam remained a humble and grounded individual. A lifelong bachelor, he was deeply spiritual and an avid reader of both religious texts and scientific literature. His daily routine included playing the veena, reading poetry, and writing.


Dr. Kalam’s simplicity and integrity were evident in his lifestyle. He lived modestly, owned no property, and donated his earnings to charitable causes. He believed that true wealth lay in knowledge and service to humanity.

Author and Educator

Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam was a prolific writer and authored several books, including Wings of Fire, an autobiography that chronicles his life journey and achievements. Other notable works include Ignited Minds, The Luminous Sparks, and Turning Points. These books continue to inspire readers to pursue their dreams and contribute to society.

After completing his term as President, Dr. Kalam dedicated his time to teaching and mentoring students. He served as a visiting professor at various institutions, including the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Shillong, IIM Ahmedabad, and IIM Indore. His interactions with students were marked by his passion for nurturing young minds and igniting their imagination.

Final Moments

Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam passed away on July 27, 2015, while delivering a lecture at IIM Shillong. He collapsed on stage due to cardiac arrest and was pronounced dead shortly after. His sudden demise was a profound loss for the nation, and millions mourned the passing of a beloved leader.

Legacy of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam

The legacy of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam is one of inspiration and

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