A AUTHOBIOGRAPHY ON DR. A.P.J.

ABDUL KALAM

INTRODUCTION : A HUMBLE BEGINNING

Dr. Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam, fondly remembered as the

"Missile Man of India" and the "People’s President," was born on October 15,
1931, in Rameswaram, a small island town in Tamil Nadu. His life was a
journey of extraordinary resilience and unwavering determination, despite
being born into a modest household. His father, Jainulabdeen, was a devout
and hardworking man who operated a ferry business, while his mother,
Ashiamma, was a compassionate homemaker who nurtured the family with
love and discipline. Growing up in a tightly-knit family of modest means,
Kalam imbibed values of humility, simplicity, and service to others from an
early age. The young boy witnessed his father’s struggle to make ends meet,
and this deeply influenced Kalam’s sense of responsibility and commitment to
contributing to the welfare of society.

Despite financial constraints, Kalam pursued his education with zeal. As

a young boy, he displayed an insatiable curiosity for the world around him,
often questioning the mechanics of things he observed in his coastal
hometown. His early education took place at Schwartz High School in
Ramanathapuram, where his teachers recognized his potential and
encouraged his interest in mathematics and science. Even as he juggled
academic commitments with part-time jobs like delivering newspapers to
support his family, he remained an exceptional student. His modest
beginnings did not deter his dreams; instead, they fueled his determination to
rise above circumstances and achieve greatness.
 Educational Journey and the Spark of
Aerospace Dreams

Kalam’s passion for learning eventually led him to St. Joseph’s College in
Tiruchirappalli, where he completed his undergraduate studies in physics.
However, his true calling lay in the field of aerospace engineering, a
realization that dawned upon him during his undergraduate years. Driven by
this newfound interest, he pursued further studies at the prestigious Madras
Institute of Technology (MIT). His time at MIT was transformative, as it
provided him with the knowledge and technical expertise that would later
define his illustrious career.

At MIT, Kalam worked on a project to design an aircraft, a task that

demanded precision, innovation, and collaboration. Despite facing immense
challenges, he displayed remarkable perseverance, earning the admiration of
his professors and peers. This project not only cemented his fascination with
flight and aerodynamics but also laid the foundation for his contributions to
India’s aerospace and defense programs. His graduation from MIT marked the
beginning of an extraordinary career that would be characterized by
groundbreaking achievements and a profound impact on India’s technological
landscape.
 Contributions to ISRO: Building India’s Space
Capabilities

After completing his education, Kalam joined the Aeronautical

Development Establishment of the Defense Research and Development
Organization (DRDO) as a scientist. However, it was at the Indian Space
Research Organisation (ISRO) that he made some of his most significant
contributions to the nation. Joining ISRO in the early 1960s, Kalam played a
pivotal role in developing India’s first Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV-III). The
successful launch of the Rohini satellite in 1980 marked a historic moment, as
it established India’s presence in the field of space technology.

Under Kalam’s leadership, ISRO embarked on a series of ambitious

projects aimed at advancing India’s space capabilities. He was instrumental in
designing and executing complex missions, often working tirelessly with his
team to overcome technical and logistical challenges. His leadership style,
characterized by collaboration, empathy, and a hands-on approach, inspired
countless young scientists who worked alongside him. The SLV-III project, in
particular, showcased Kalam’s ability to translate visionary ideas into
practical solutions, earning him widespread recognition and respect.
 DRDO and the Integrated Guided Missile
Development Program

Kalam’s contributions to India’s defense sector were equally

groundbreaking. As the director of the DRDO, he spearheaded the Integrated
Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP), which aimed to develop a
series of indigenous missile systems. Under his guidance, India successfully
developed and tested missiles like Agni, Prithvi, Akash, Trishul, and Nag.
These missile systems not only bolstered India’s defense capabilities but also
demonstrated the country’s self-reliance in advanced military technology.

The development of the Agni missile, in particular, was a significant

milestone in India’s defense history. Agni was designed as a long-range
ballistic missile capable of carrying nuclear warheads, and its successful
testing positioned India as a formidable global power. Kalam’s role in the
missile program earned him the nickname "Missile Man of India," a title that
symbolized his pioneering efforts in advancing the nation’s defense
technology.
 Pokhran-II: Cementing India’s Status as
a Nuclear Power

One of the most defining moments in Dr. Kalam’s career was his
involvement in the Pokhran-II nuclear tests conducted in 1998. Serving as the
Chief Scientific Advisor to the Prime Minister at the time, Kalam played a
crucial role in the planning, execution, and success of these tests. The
Pokhran-II tests, which included the detonation of five nuclear devices,
established India as a nuclear power and underscored its commitment to
maintaining strategic autonomy.

Despite international sanctions and diplomatic challenges, Kalam

remained steadfast in his belief that a strong defense capability was essential
for ensuring national security and sovereignty. His leadership during this
period was marked by meticulous planning, strategic foresight, and an
unwavering commitment to the nation’s interests. While the tests garnered
global attention and criticism, they also positioned India as a technologically
advanced and self-reliant nation.

The People's President: A Leader for All

 In 2002, Dr. Kalam was elected as the 11th President of India, a role that
allowed him to connect with people across all walks of life. During his tenure,
Kalam became known as the "People’s President" due to his approachable
nature, humility, and genuine concern for the well-being of citizens. Unlike
many of his predecessors, he made a conscious effort to engage with the
youth, often visiting schools, colleges, and universities to interact with
students and inspire them to dream big.

Kalam’s presidency was marked by his vision for a developed India,

encapsulated in his book India 2020: A Vision for the New Millennium. He
envisioned a nation that was economically prosperous, technologically
advanced, and socially inclusive. Through his speeches and writings, he
emphasized the importance of innovation, education, and entrepreneurship in
achieving this vision. His tenure as President was a period of hope and
inspiration for millions, as he used his platform to advocate for policies that
prioritized scientific research, sustainable development, and equitable
growth.

A Legacy of Inspiration
 Dr. Kalam’s life and work continue to inspire people across the globe. He
was not only a brilliant scientist but also a philosopher, writer, and mentor
who believed in the transformative power of education and innovation. His
books, including Wings of Fire, Ignited Minds, and The Luminous Sparks, offer
profound insights into his journey, struggles, and aspirations for India’s
future. Through his writings, Kalam shared his vision for a world where
science and spirituality coexist, and where technology is harnessed to uplift
humanity.

On July 27, 2015, Dr. Kalam passed away while delivering a lecture at
the Indian Institute of Management in Shillong. His sudden demise was a great
loss to the nation, but his legacy lives on through the countless lives he
touched and the enduring impact of his work. Today, he is remembered not
only as a visionary scientist and leader but also as a symbol of hope, resilience,
and determination.

Conclusion
 Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s life story is a testament to the power of

perseverance, humility, and vision. From his humble beginnings in

Rameswaram to his extraordinary contributions to science, technology, and

nation-building, Kalam exemplified the spirit of self-reliance and innovation.

His legacy serves as a guiding light for future generations, reminding us of the

limitless potential that lies within each individual and the transformative

power of dreaming big.

“ Missile Man of India "