Remembering Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam – The Missile Man of India
On 15th October, India celebrates the birth anniversary of Dr. Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam, one of the most inspiring figures in modern Indian history. Popularly known as the ‘Missile Man of India’ and the 11th President of India, Dr. Kalam’s life continues to ignite the minds of millions of young Indians striving to serve the nation through knowledge, innovation, and dedication.
Early Life and Education
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was born on 15th October 1931 in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, into a humble family. His early years were marked by curiosity, perseverance, and a deep passion for learning. He graduated in Aeronautical Engineering from the Madras Institute of Technology (MIT), laying the foundation for his journey into India’s aerospace and defence research.
Scientific Contributions and Achievements
Dr. Kalam’s professional career began with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), where he served as Project Director for India’s first indigenous Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV-III). Under his leadership, India successfully launched the Rohini satellite into near-Earth orbit in 1980, marking India’s entry into the elite group of spacefaring nations.
His contributions did not stop there. Dr. Kalam played a pivotal role in the evolution of ISRO’s launch vehicle programmes, especially the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) configuration, which became the backbone of India’s satellite missions.
After two decades at ISRO, he moved to the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and took charge of the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP). As the Chief Executive, he led the successful development of India’s Agni and Prithvi missile systems — milestones that established India’s indigenous missile capabilities.
During his tenure as Scientific Adviser to the Defence Minister and Secretary, Department of Defence Research & Development (1992–1999), Dr. Kalam contributed significantly to India’s defence preparedness and technological self-reliance. His leadership was instrumental during the Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998, which elevated India’s status as a nuclear weapon state.
From 1999 to 2001, as the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, Dr. Kalam focused on national technology missions, science-led governance, and the vision of transforming India into a technologically advanced nation.
The President of the People
In 2002, Dr. Kalam became the 11th President of India, serving till 2007. His presidency was marked by humility, approachability, and a deep connect with students and youth. He redefined the role of the President, making Rashtrapati Bhavan a place of learning and inspiration.
His vision document, “Technology Vision 2020,” outlined a roadmap for transforming India into a developed nation through innovation, education, and self-reliance.
Inspiration to the Youth
Dr. Kalam believed that “Dreams are not what you see in sleep, but the things that do not let you sleep.”
He constantly urged the youth to think beyond limitations and to contribute towards nation-building. His addresses at schools, colleges, and scientific forums reflected his firm belief that empowered youth are the real strength of India’s future.
On 27th July 2015, while delivering a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Shillong, Dr. Kalam collapsed and passed away doing what he loved most — teaching and inspiring students.
Books and Intellectual Legacy
Dr. Kalam authored several visionary books that continue to inspire millions across generations:
- Wings of Fire
- India 2020: A Vision for the New Millennium
- Ignited Minds: Unleashing the Power Within India
- My Journey
These works reflect his unwavering faith in India’s potential and his dream of an inclusive, technologically empowered, and morally strong nation.
Honours and Recognition
Dr. Kalam received numerous accolades, including:
- Padma Bhushan (1981)
- Padma Vibhushan (1990)
- Bharat Ratna (1997) – India’s highest civilian award
He also received honorary doctorates from over 30 universities and institutions and was a Fellow of many leading scientific and academic bodies.
Enduring Legacy
Dr. Kalam’s life stands as a testament to the power of vision, hard work, and humility. From a small coastal town in Tamil Nadu to the highest office of the nation, his journey symbolizes the transformative potential of education and perseverance.
Even today, his ideas continue to influence India’s policies in science, technology, defence, and education. His message of “igniting young minds” remains more relevant than ever in a world driven by innovation and knowledge.
Conclusion
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was not just a scientist or a President — he was a teacher, dreamer, and nation-builder whose life reminds us that true leadership lies in service, simplicity, and vision.
As The Prayas India pays tribute to this great son of the nation, we reaffirm his dream of seeing India as a developed, self-reliant, and knowledge-driven power.
