Dr. A.P.J.

Abdul Kalam: The Missile Man and People’s President of

India

Introduction

Dr. Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam, popularly known as

A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, was one of India’s most beloved leaders, a
pioneering scientist, and a true symbol of humility, intelligence,
and inspiration. Born into a modest family in Rameswaram, Tamil
Nadu, Kalam rose to become a key architect of India’s missile and
space programs and eventually the 11th President of India.
Known as the “Missile Man of India”, his work in defense
technology significantly strengthened India’s strategic
capabilities. However, it was his simplicity, passion for education,
and connection with young people that earned him the title of the
“People’s President.” His life, which blended science, service, and
spirituality, continues to inspire millions across the world.

Early Life and Education

Dr. Kalam was born on 15th October 1931 in the small island town
of Rameswaram, in Tamil Nadu. His father, Jainulabdeen, was a
boat owner and imam at a local mosque, while his mother,
Ashiamma, was a homemaker. Though his family was not
financially well-off, they were rich in values, discipline, and a
deep sense of spirituality.

As a child, Kalam was curious, hardworking, and deeply

influenced by his surroundings. He would wake up at dawn, help
his cousin deliver newspapers, attend school, and spend hours
studying by lamplight. His fascination with flying and the sky led
him to dream of becoming a pilot, though he eventually pursued
aeronautical engineering.

He studied physics at St. Joseph’s College, Tiruchirappalli, and

then went on to join the Madras Institute of Technology (MIT) to
study aerospace engineering. It was at MIT that Kalam’s passion
for flight and engineering deepened, laying the foundation for his
illustrious career in science and defense.

Scientific Career and Contributions

Dr. Kalam began his career in 1960 at the Defense Research and
Development Organization (DRDO), but his true breakthrough
came when he joined the Indian Space Research Organisation
(ISRO) in 1969. As Project Director of India’s first satellite launch
vehicle (SLV-III), Kalam successfully led the team that placed the
Rohini satellite into orbit in 1980, marking a major milestone in
India’s space journey.

In the 1980s and 1990s, Kalam played a crucial role in India’s

defense development. He returned to DRDO and was pivotal in
the development of the Integrated Guided Missile Development
Programme (IGMDP). Under this project, India developed key
missiles like:

 Agni (Intermediate-Range Ballistic Missile)

 Prithvi (Short-Range Surface-to-Surface Missile)

 Trishul, Akash, and Nag missiles

These advancements earned him the nickname “Missile Man of

India.”

Perhaps his most significant contribution was his leadership in

the Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998. As the Chief Scientific
Adviser to the Prime Minister and the Director of the DRDO,
Kalam was a key figure behind India’s declaration as a nuclear
weapons state, asserting India’s strategic autonomy.

Despite his deep involvement in defense, Kalam always

emphasized that technology must be used for national
development—especially in rural areas, healthcare, and
education.

Presidency (2002–2007): The People's President

In 2002, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was elected the 11th President of
India with overwhelming support. Despite being a non-political
figure, he was backed by both the ruling National Democratic
Alliance (NDA) and the opposition parties due to his national
stature and widespread respect.

As President, he brought a refreshing wave of approachability,

idealism, and inspiration to Rashtrapati Bhavan. He was the first
scientist and bachelor to occupy the highest constitutional office.
What made his presidency truly unique was his genuine
connection with the people—especially students and children. He
visited schools and colleges across the country, always
encouraging the youth to dream big, innovate, and serve the
nation.

He used the platform of the presidency not merely to fulfill

ceremonial duties but to ignite minds. His initiatives like "What
Can I Give Movement", which focused on anti-corruption and
national service, demonstrated his belief in citizen participation
for national development.

Dr. Kalam’s humility and integrity stood out. He often refused

protocol excesses, paid for his own expenses, and was deeply
spiritual—often quoting the Bhagavad Gita and the Quran
together. Though he served only one term, he left behind a deep
impact on Indian politics and public life.

Author, Teacher, and Visionary

After his presidency, Dr. Kalam returned to his first love:

education. He continued to travel across India, addressing
millions of students and young professionals, sharing his
thoughts on science, innovation, leadership, and nation-building.

He authored numerous books, many of which became bestsellers.

Some of his most well-known works include:

 “Wings of Fire” – his autobiography

 “Ignited Minds”

 “India 2020: A Vision for the New Millennium”

 “The Life Tree”

 “Mission India”

These books reveal his strong belief in the potential of India’s

youth and his vision of making India a developed nation by 2020.
He constantly spoke of his five areas of national development:
agriculture, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and
technological innovation.

Dr. Kalam also taught at institutions like the Indian Institute of

Management (IIM) and Anna University, and remained a
passionate mentor to young scientists and students.

Awards and Honors

Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam received numerous honors throughout his
life, both nationally and internationally. Some of the most
prestigious include:

 Bharat Ratna (1997) – India’s highest civilian award

 Padma Bhushan (1981)

 Padma Vibhushan (1990)

 Hoover Medal (2009) – by the American Society of

Mechanical Engineers

 Honorary doctorates from over 40 universities worldwide

 Recognized by the United Nations, which declared October

15 (his birthday) as World Students’ Day in his honor

These accolades reflect not only his achievements but the love
and respect he earned globally for his life of service and humility.

Death and Legacy

On 27th July 2015, while delivering a lecture at IIM Shillong, Dr.

Kalam collapsed on stage and passed away from a cardiac arrest
at the age of 83. His death was mourned across India and the
world. Thousands attended his funeral in Rameswaram, and
tributes poured in from all walks of life.

Though he passed on, Dr. Kalam's legacy continues to live in the

hearts of millions. He inspired an entire generation to believe in
the power of dreams, hard work, and education. His message that
"dreams are not what you see in sleep, dreams are those that do
not let you sleep" has become a guiding quote for countless
young minds.

Numerous schools, universities, scientific institutions, awards,

and public buildings have been named after him. His life remains
a shining example of how a man from humble beginnings can rise
to become a national icon through integrity, intelligence, and
service.

Conclusion

Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s life is a perfect blend of science,

spirituality, and selfless service. He demonstrated that greatness
lies not in power or wealth, but in character, compassion, and
contribution. From designing missiles to delivering lectures to
students, from the launchpad to Rashtrapati Bhavan, Kalam’s
journey is a story of determination, resilience, and patriotism.

He was not just a scientist or a president—he was a teacher to the

nation, a visionary for India’s future, and a symbol of hope for
millions. His ideals, work ethic, and love for learning continue to
inspire generations. In remembering Dr. Kalam, we don’t just
honor a man—we honor an idea: that with hard work, humility,
and vision, anything is possible.