Biography of A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
Dr. Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam, popularly known as A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, was an eminent Indian scientist and politician who served as the 11th President of India from 2002 to 2007. He was born on October 15, 1931, in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, India, and passed away on July 27, 2015.
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| Biography of A. P. J. Abdul Kalam |
Early Life and Education:
Abdul Kalam was born into a humble Tamil Muslim family. He studied physics and aerospace engineering and graduated from St. Joseph’s College, Tiruchirappalli. He then specialized in Aeronautical Engineering from the Madras Institute of Technology.
A. P. J. Abdul Kalam’s Career in DRDO and ISRO:
Abdul Kalam started his career as a scientist at the Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and later at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). He played a pivotal role in India’s civilian space program and military missile development. He was instrumental in the development of India’s first indigenous Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV-III) at ISRO.
A. P. J. Abdul Kalam as Missile Man of India:
Dr. Kalam became widely known as the “Missile Man of India” due to his significant contributions to the development of ballistic missile technology in India. He played a key role in the Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998, which established India as a nuclear weapons state.
Presidency and Post-Presidential Activities:
In 2002, Abdul Kalam was elected as the President of India, serving a term from 2002 to 2007. During his tenure, he focused on promoting education and scientific research in the country, especially among the youth. After his presidency, he continued to be an inspirational figure, lecturing at various institutions and interacting with students.
Kalam’s Vision for India:
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was known for his vision for India’s development, emphasizing education, technology, and innovation. He believed in empowering the youth and promoting scientific advancements for the nation’s progress.
Thoughts of Dr. Kalam:
- I was always willing to accept that I cannot change certain things.
- Questioning is one of the most important features of students. So students ask questions.
- There is no such thing as a negative experience for me.
- We should not stop trying and should not give up on problems.Life and time are the two greatest teachers of the world. Life teaches us to use time properly while time tells us the usefulness of life.
- When we are surrounded by daily problems, we forget the good things that we have.
- A human needs difficulties because it is necessary to enjoy success.
- Those who do any work with half-hearted heart get half-completed, Khokli success which fills all the bitterness.
- We should not stop trying and should not give up on problems.
Legacy:
Abdul Kalam’s life and achievements continue to inspire generations of Indians. He authored several books, including “Wings of Fire” and “Ignited Minds,” which became bestsellers. His dedication to science, education, and the welfare of the nation made him a beloved figure in India and around the world.
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam passed away on July 27, 2015, while delivering a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management Shillong. Despite his demise, his legacy lives on, and he is remembered as one of India’s greatest scientists, leaders, and visionaries.