 "APJ Abdul Kalam")
On his 94th birth anniversary, October 15, India remembers former president Dr APJ Abdul Kalam not just as a scientist or statesman but as a symbol of what humility, hard work, and vision can achieve.
Fondly called the 'People’s President', Dr Kalam once said, “If the people remember me as a good teacher, that will be the biggest honour for me.”
Early life and education
- Born in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, in 1931, Kalam grew up in a modest family where perseverance, curiosity, and faith shaped his character.
- Despite financial hardship, he pursued aeronautical engineering at the Madras Institute of Technology, fuelled by a fascination with flight and space.
- “If you want to shine like a sun, first burn like a sun,” he often said — a principle he lived by.
Space ambitions at DRDO and Isro
- Kalam began his career at DRDO in 1958 before joining Isro in 1969.
- As Project Director of the SLV-III, he led the successful launch of Rohini Satellite in 1980, which was a defining moment in India’s space journey.
- His early work built the foundation for future triumphs such as Chandrayaan, Mangalyaan, and Gaganyaan.
- “Dream, dream, dream. Dreams transform into thoughts, and thoughts result in action,” he believed.
The Missile Man of India
- Returning to DRDO in 1982, Dr Kalam spearheaded the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP), leading to the development of Agni, Prithvi, Akash, and Trishul missiles, milestones that earned him the title Missile Man of India.
- He also played a central role in Pokhran-II nuclear tests (1998) as Chief Scientific Adviser to the Prime Minister, strengthening India’s defence capability.
- “To succeed in your mission, you must have single-minded devotion to your goal,” he said — words that defined his approach to science and life.
- His legacy endures in India’s modern missile systems, including the advanced weaponry used in Operation Sindoor (2025).
Vision 2020 and national transformation
- Dr Kalam’s Vision 2020 articulated a roadmap for transforming India into a developed nation through technology, education, and innovation.
- He emphasised self-reliance, youth empowerment, and rural progress, ideas that inspired modern initiatives like Make in India and Digital India.
- “My 2020 vision for India is to transform it into a developed nation. That cannot be abstract; it is a lifeline,” he wrote.
The People’s President
- Elected as India’s 11th President, Dr Kalam became the first scientist to hold the position. He transformed Rashtrapati Bhavan into a place of dialogue, science, and inspiration, engaging directly with students, innovators, and citizens.
- He brought humility and humanity to high office, earning the affection of millions across political and social lines.
Teacher, mentor, and eternal guide
- After his presidency, Dr Kalam returned to teaching, lecturing at IIM Shillong, IIM Ahmedabad, and IISc Bengaluru. His books, including Wings of Fire, Ignited Minds, and Target 3 Billion, continue to inspire generations.
- “Let us sacrifice our today so that our children can have a better tomorrow.”
- On July 27, 2015, Dr Kalam collapsed while delivering a lecture at IIM Shillong, leaving the world as he lived it: mid-sentence, mid-mission, teaching.
A lasting legacy
Dr Kalam’s life remains a reminder that science and service are not separate paths but complementary missions. His work continues to shape India’s defence, space, and education systems, from missile modernisation to the precision of Chandrayaan-3’s lunar landing.
Honoured with the Bharat Ratna, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan, Dr Kalam remains India’s most beloved example of intellect guided by integrity.
“If we fear failure, we will never achieve success,” he once said — and his life proved it true.
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