A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, full name Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam, was an 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, in Shillong, Meghalaya, India.
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was widely known as the “People’s President” because of his friendly and approachable nature. He was a highly respected figure in India and around the world, known for his contributions to science and his efforts to promote education and technology.
A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Biography
A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, often referred to as the “People’s President” and the “Missile Man of India,” had a remarkable life and career. Here is a brief biography of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam:
Early Life:
A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was born on October 15, 1931, in Rameswaram, a small town in Tamil Nadu, India.
He hailed from a humble background and came from a family of modest means.
A.P.J. Abdul Kalam education
Early Education: Dr. Kalam was born in a modest Tamil Muslim family in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, India. He attended the Schwartz Higher Secondary School in Ramanathapuram and later studied at the Saint Joseph’s College, Tiruchirappalli.
B.Sc. in Physics: Dr. Kalam graduated from Saint Joseph’s College in 1954 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics. His interest in the field of science was nurtured during his early education.
Aerospace Engineering: After completing his bachelor’s degree, Kalam enrolled at the Madras Institute of Technology (MIT), Chennai, for a degree in aerospace engineering. He pursued a four-year undergraduate program in aeronautical engineering.
Master’s Degree: Dr. Kalam went on to pursue a Master of Engineering (M.E.) degree in Aerospace Engineering at the Madras Institute of Technology. He completed this program in 1957.
Doctorate (Honorary): While Dr. Kalam did not pursue a traditional Ph.D., he was awarded several honorary doctorate degrees by various universities around the world in recognition of his contributions to science and technology.
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s educational background in aerospace engineering laid the foundation for his illustrious career in India’s space and missile programs. His dedication to science and his commitment to using technology for the betterment of India were hallmarks of his life and work.
History of A.P.J. Abdul Kalam
Abdul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam was born on October 15, 1931, in Rameswaram, a town in Tamil Nadu, India. He came from a modest background and was the son of a boat owner. Despite the financial challenges, he was a bright student and completed his early education at Schwartz Higher Secondary School and later at Saint Joseph’s College in Tiruchirappalli. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics in 1954. Driven by his passion for aviation, he pursued a degree in aerospace engineering at the Madras Institute of Technology, where he completed his Master’s degree in 1957. After completing his education, Kalam joined the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) as a scientist. He worked on various defense projects, including the development of guided missiles. His work in the field of missile technology earned him the nickname “Missile Man of India.”
In 1982, Dr. Kalam was appointed as the Director of the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), part of the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO). He played a pivotal role in the development of India’s first indigenous satellite launch vehicle, SLV-III, which successfully launched the Rohini satellite into orbit in 1980.
After his presidential term, Dr. Kalam continued to be a prolific writer and inspirational speaker. He traveled extensively, interacting with students and promoting education and innovation. He authored several books, including “Wings of Fire” and “Ignited Minds.”
Passing Away (2015): Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam passed away on July 27, 2015, while delivering a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management Shillong. His death was widely mourned in India and around the world.
A.P.J. Abdul Kalam books
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was not only a renowned scientist and statesman but also a prolific author. He wrote several books during his lifetime, covering a wide range of topics, including his life experiences, scientific insights, and his vision for a better India. Here are some of his most notable books:
Wings of Fire : An Autobiography (1999) : This is one of Dr. Kalam’s most famous books, where he chronicles his early life, education, and his journey from being a humble son of a boat owner to becoming a leading scientist and India’s 11th President. It’s an inspirational autobiography that resonates with readers of all ages.
Ignited Minds: Unleashing the Power Within India (2002): In this book, Dr. Kalam shares his thoughts on how India can realize its potential and become a developed nation. He emphasizes the role of education and technology in achieving this goal and encourages young Indians to pursue excellence.
India 2020: A Vision for the New Millennium (1998): In this book, Dr. Kalam outlines his vision for India in the year 2020. He discusses various aspects of development, including economics, education, infrastructure, and technology, and lays out a roadmap for India’s progress.
My Journey: Transforming Dreams into Actions (2013): This book is a sequel to “Wings of Fire” and provides further insights into Dr. Kalam’s life and experiences. It covers his post-presidential years and his interactions with students and young people.
The Luminous Sparks (2004): This book is a collection of Dr. Kalam’s speeches and interactions with students. It contains his thoughts on a wide range of subjects, including leadership, innovation, and patriotism.
You Are Born to Blossom: Take My Journey Beyond (2011): In this book, Dr. Kalam offers advice and guidance to young people. He discusses the importance of nurturing one’s talents and potential and offers insights into personal development and self-realization.
Advantage India: From Challenge to Opportunity (2015): Published shortly before his passing, this book reflects Dr. Kalam’s thoughts on India’s future challenges and opportunities. He emphasizes the need for innovation and a proactive approach to addressing national issues.
Transcendence: My Spiritual Experiences with Pramukh Swamiji (2015): In this book, Dr. Kalam explores his spiritual journey and his interactions with Pramukh Swamiji, the spiritual leader of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha. It delves into the importance of spirituality in his life.
A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Thoughts
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was known for his insightful and inspirational thoughts on a wide range of subjects, including science, education, leadership, and patriotism. His words continue to motivate and guide people, especially the youth of India. Here are some of his notable thoughts.
A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Awards
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam received numerous awards and honors during his lifetime in recognition of his exceptional contributions to science, technology, and his role as a statesman. Some of the most prestigious awards and honors bestowed upon him include:
- Bharat Ratna (1997): The Bharat Ratna is India’s highest civilian award, and Dr. Kalam received this honor in 1997 in recognition of his outstanding contributions to science and technology.
- Padma Bhushan (1981): Dr. Kalam was awarded the Padma Bhushan, the third-highest civilian award in India, in 1981 for his work in developing ballistic missile technology.
- Padma Vibhushan (1990): In 1990, he received the Padma Vibhushan, the second-highest civilian award in India, for his contributions to the development of India’s space and missile technology.
- Indira Gandhi Award for National Integration (1997): Dr. Kalam received this award in 1997 for his efforts in promoting national integration and communal harmony.
- Veer Savarkar Award (1998): He was honored with the Veer Savarkar Award by the Government of India in 1998 for his exceptional work in the field of aerospace engineering.
- Ramanujan Award (2000): Dr. Kalam received the Ramanujan Award in 2000 for his significant contributions to the field of science and mathematics.
- King Charles II Medal (2007): He was awarded the King Charles II Medal by the Royal Society, UK, in 2007 for his outstanding contributions to science and engineering.
- Honorary Doctorates: Dr. Kalam received honorary doctorate degrees from several universities and institutions around the world
A.P.J. Abdul Kalam facts
A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, also known as the “Missile Man of India” and the “People’s President,” was a highly respected figure known for his contributions to science, education, and Indian society. Here are some interesting facts about Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam:
- Humble Origins: He was born on October 15, 1931, in Rameswaram, a small town in Tamil Nadu, India, into a humble Tamil Muslim family. His father owned a boat, and his early life was marked by modesty and simplicity.
- Aerospace Engineer: Dr. Kalam was an aerospace engineer by training. He specialized in the field of aeronautical engineering and played a pivotal role in India’s space and missile programs.
- Role in SLV-III: He was the project director of India’s first indigenous satellite launch vehicle, SLV-III, which successfully placed the Rohini satellite into orbit in 1980. This achievement marked India’s entry into the world of space exploration.
- “Missile Man of India”: Dr. Kalam earned the nickname “Missile Man of India” for his leadership and contributions to the development of India’s missile technology, including the Agni and Prithvi missiles.
- Role in Pokhran-II Nuclear Tests: He played a significant role in India’s successful nuclear tests conducted in Pokhran in 1998, which established India as a nuclear-armed nation.
- Presidential Term: Dr. Kalam served as the 11th President of India from 2002 to 2007. He was the third scientist to hold the office and was widely loved during his tenure.
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