Vice president, Speaker condole Kalam's death

Vice President Hamid Ansari and Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan on Monday condoled the death of former president A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, saying his contributions will be deeply cherished.

Ansari said he was saddened to learn of the sudden and untimely death of Kalam.

"Kalam was a true son of India and his contributions to the nation, in his capacity as a man of technology, a teacher and a leader will be deeply cherished by a grateful nation," he said.

Ansari said Kalam was the guide of India's space and missile programmes and his efforts saw India become a front-ranking power in these areas.

"He was also a visionary, with a deep conviction to see India emerging stronger, more peaceful and more equitable through the use of science and technology. He personified humility and boundless curiosity. His life will remain an inspiration to the millions of youth in the country," the vice president said.

In her message, the speaker said Kalam was one of the favourite presidents of India whose personality was so amiable that he was liked by every person.

"I remember him as a voracious reader and popular writer. He not only remained active after retirement but also earned accolades for his public life. In his death, the country has lost a true patriot, world renowned scientist and original thinker who served the nation with distinction," she said.

Referring to a visit to the Philippines with Kalam, Mahajan said she found the "people's president" did not care for protocol and behaved like a common man.

"He will be remembered by all of us for his pro-people and sensitive approach to problems that confront us," he said.