A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
	Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
Born	15 October 1931
Birthplace	Rameswaram, Madras Presidency (now Tamil Nadu), India
Died	27 July 2015 (aged 83)
Place of death	Shillong, Meghalaya, India
Resting place	Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam Memorial, Rameswaram
Nationality	Indian
Occupation	Aerospace Scientist, Author, Professor, 11th President of India
Years active	1958–2015
Known for	Missile development, Pokhran-II nuclear tests, People's President
Notable works	Wings of Fire, Ignited Minds, India 2020, Turning Points
Awards	Bharat Ratna (1997), Padma Vibhushan (1990), Padma Bhushan (1981), Hoover Medal, King Charles II Medal
Spouse(s)	None
Children	None
Parents	Jainulabdeen (father), Ashiamma (mother)
Religion	Islam
Website

Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam was an Indian aerospace scientist, author, and the 11th President of India. Known as the “Missile Man of India,” he dedicated his life to science, national development, and inspiring young minds.

He played a major role in India’s space and missile programmes through DRDO and ISRO, and his leadership during the 1998 Pokhran-II nuclear tests brought India global recognition. In 2002, he became President of India and was widely loved as the “People’s President.” Even after leaving office, he devoted his time to teaching, writing, and motivating students across the country.

He passed away on 27 July 2015 while delivering a lecture at IIM Shillong, leaving behind a legacy of simplicity, service, and vision.

Early Life and Education

Kalam was born on 15 October 1931 into a humble family in Rameswaram. His father was a boat owner and imam, and his mother was a homemaker. The family had once been prosperous but faced financial struggles by the time he was born.

From a young age, Kalam worked to support the family by delivering newspapers. He studied at Schwartz Higher Secondary School and later completed a degree in Physics from St. Joseph’s College in 1954.

He went on to study aerospace engineering at the Madras Institute of Technology in 1955, where his dedication and discipline impressed his mentors. He once narrowly missed becoming a fighter pilot, ranking ninth when only eight positions were available.

Scientific Career

Kalam joined DRDO in 1960 and later moved to ISRO in 1969. As project director of India’s first Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV-3), he oversaw the successful launch of the Rohini satellite in 1980.

His work led to several key missile projects, including Agni and Prithvi, under the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme. These achievements earned him the title “Missile Man of India.”

He also contributed to nuclear research and played a leading role in the Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998. Alongside his defence work, he co-developed the Kalam-Raju Stent and Kalam-Raju Tablet for affordable healthcare.

Presidency (2002–2007)

In 2002, Kalam became the 11th President of India with broad political support. During his tenure, he focused on national development, youth empowerment, and science-driven progress.

He was known for his humility, approachability, and vision for India. His presidency was marked by key decisions, interactions with students, and his advocacy for a strong and developed India by 2020.

After completing his term, he chose not to run again, despite strong public support.

Post-Presidency

After leaving office, Kalam returned to teaching and mentoring students. He served as a visiting professor at many institutions and became the first Chancellor of the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology.

He launched the “What Can I Give?” movement in 2012 to inspire youth to fight corruption and serve society.

Death

On 27 July 2015, while speaking at IIM Shillong, Kalam suffered a sudden cardiac arrest and passed away at age 83. His funeral in Rameswaram was attended by thousands, and he was laid to rest with full state honours.

Personal Life

Kalam lived a simple life. He was a vegetarian, enjoyed writing poetry, playing the veena, and reading. He never married and kept few personal possessions. He always believed that India’s youth held the key to the nation’s future.

Writings

Kalam wrote many influential books, including:

• Wings of Fire
• Ignited Minds
• India 2020
• Turning Points
• Target 3 Billion
• My Journey

His writings continue to inspire millions of young Indians.

Bibliography

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Achievements and Recognition

Kalam received numerous national and international honors, including:

• Bharat Ratna (India’s highest civilian award)
• Padma Vibhushan
• Padma Bhushan
• Hoover Medal
• Von Braun Award

Several scientific discoveries have been named after him, including a bacterium, a plant species, and a tardigrade. Many roads, institutions, and structures across India also bear his name.

Legacy

Kalam’s birthday (15 October) is observed as **World Students’ Day** in India. His vision for a developed India continues to inspire government projects, youth initiatives, and scientific missions.

In Popular Culture

His life has been portrayed in several films, documentaries, and series, including:

• I Am Kalam
• People’s President
• Mega Icons
• Rocket Boys
• Soorarai Pottru

See Also

• ISRO
• DRDO
• Bharat Ratna
• Pokhran-II
• President of India

References

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