A.P.J. Abdul Kalam

Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam (1931–2015) was an eminent Indian scientist, educator, and statesman who served as the 11th President of India from 2002 to 2007. Widely known as the “Missile Man of India” for his pivotal role in the development of the nation’s ballistic missile and nuclear weapons programmes, Kalam remains a celebrated figure in Indian history for his contributions to science, technology, and education. His life symbolised dedication to learning, innovation, and national service, making him a beloved leader across generations.

Early Life and Education

A. P. J. Abdul Kalam was born on 15 October 1931 in Rameswaram, a small coastal town in Tamil Nadu. He hailed from a humble Muslim family; his father, Jainulabdeen, was a boat owner and imam of the local mosque, and his mother, Ashiamma, was a homemaker. Despite limited financial means, Kalam was deeply inspired by his parents’ values of honesty, faith, and hard work.
He completed his early education at Schwartz Higher Secondary School, Ramanathapuram, and later graduated in Physics from St. Joseph’s College, Tiruchirappalli in 1954. His fascination with flight and aerodynamics led him to pursue a degree in Aeronautical Engineering from the Madras Institute of Technology (MIT), where he developed a lifelong passion for aerospace engineering and scientific research.

Early Career and Role at ISRO

After graduation, Kalam joined the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in 1958 as a scientist, where he worked on designing small hovercraft prototypes. In 1969, he moved to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), where his career flourished.
At ISRO, Kalam served as the Project Director of India’s first Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV-III), which successfully deployed the Rohini satellite into near-earth orbit in 1980. This marked India’s entry into the league of spacefaring nations. He also played a vital role in the development of indigenous space technology, focusing on cost-effective and self-reliant solutions for India’s growing technological needs.
Kalam’s leadership at ISRO established the foundation for subsequent satellite and launch vehicle missions, including the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) programmes.

Contribution to Defence and Missile Development

In the early 1980s, Abdul Kalam returned to the DRDO to spearhead India’s missile development initiatives. As the Chief Executive of the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP), he oversaw the development of a series of successful missile systems, including:

• Agni – Intermediate-range ballistic missile.
• Prithvi – Surface-to-surface short-range missile.
• Nag – Anti-tank missile.
• Akash – Surface-to-air missile.
• Trishul – Short-range quick-reaction missile.

These projects earned him the title “Missile Man of India”, reflecting his visionary leadership in advancing India’s strategic defence capabilities. Under his guidance, India achieved significant technological independence in missile production, propulsion systems, and composite materials.

Role in India’s Nuclear Programme

Kalam was a key figure in India’s nuclear weapons development, especially in the Pokhran-II nuclear tests conducted in May 1998 under the leadership of Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. As the Chief Scientific Adviser to the Prime Minister and Director of the Defence Research and Development Organisation, he coordinated multidisciplinary teams that successfully executed the nuclear tests, asserting India’s position as a nuclear-armed state.
His leadership during the Pokhran-II mission was hailed as a demonstration of India’s scientific strength and technological self-sufficiency, reinforcing his reputation as a patriot and national icon.

Presidency of India (2002–2007)

A. P. J. Abdul Kalam was elected as the 11th President of India on 25 July 2002, with overwhelming support across political parties. Popularly referred to as the “People’s President”, Kalam’s tenure was characterised by his simplicity, humility, and accessibility to citizens, particularly students.
During his presidency, he promoted values of national integration, education, and youth empowerment. His interactions with students across India inspired millions to pursue knowledge, innovation, and service to the nation.
Kalam’s presidency was also marked by his vision of transforming India into a developed nation by 2020, articulated in his influential document “Vision 2020”. His presidency ended in 2007, but he declined to seek a second term, choosing instead to return to teaching and research.

Educational Vision and Later Life

Following his presidency, Kalam dedicated his life to education and youth development. He served as a visiting professor at several prestigious institutions, including the Indian Institute of Management (IIMs) at Shillong, Ahmedabad, and Indore, and the Anna University, Chennai.
He authored numerous books aimed at motivating students and promoting scientific thinking. His most popular works include:

• “Wings of Fire” – An autobiography chronicling his journey from Rameswaram to Rashtrapati Bhavan.
• “Ignited Minds” – A call to youth for national transformation.
• “India 2020: A Vision for the New Millennium” – A roadmap for India’s progress in science and development.
• “My Journey” and “Turning Points” – Reflections on his experiences and public life.

Kalam’s focus on education led him to advocate for a knowledge-based society, integrating technology, innovation, and ethics into the nation’s growth framework.

Awards and Honours

Throughout his illustrious career, A. P. J. Abdul Kalam received numerous awards and honours, both national and international, recognising his outstanding contributions to science and service to the nation. These include:

• Padma Bhushan (1981)
• Padma Vibhushan (1990)
• Bharat Ratna (1997) – India’s highest civilian honour.
• King Charles II Medal from the Royal Society, UK.
• Von Braun Award from the National Space Society (USA).

He was also awarded honorary doctorates from over 40 universities worldwide. His birthday, 15 October, is celebrated as World Students’ Day in recognition of his lifelong commitment to education.

Death and Legacy

On 27 July 2015, while delivering a lecture on “Creating a Livable Planet Earth” at the Indian Institute of Management, Shillong, A. P. J. Abdul Kalam collapsed due to cardiac arrest and passed away at the age of 83. His death was mourned across the nation, and he was given a state funeral in his hometown, Rameswaram.
Kalam’s legacy continues to inspire millions. Institutions, scholarships, and scientific programmes have been named in his honour, including the Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam National Memorial at Rameswaram and the Kalam Satellite designed by Indian students. His emphasis on faith in science, self-reliance, and moral integrity remains a guiding principle for India’s youth.