“Failure will never overtake me if my determination to succeed is strong enough.”
Avul Pakir Jain-Ul-Abdeen Abdul Kalam, also known as APJ Abdul Kalam, President of India, was born in Rameswaram, Madras presidency on 15 October 1931.
Early life of APJ Abdul Kalam
APJ Abdul Kalam was born to a father who was a boat owner and an Imam, and his mother, Ashaimma, a housewife. Abdul Kalam was the youngest of all his siblings. He had four brothers and a sister.
Abdul Kalam’s ancestors were prosperous traders. However, the family fell into difficult times. Kalam backed his family financially by selling newspapers.
Education of APJ Abdul Kalam
Kamal finished his primary schooling in Ramanathapuram. Further, he completed his degree in Physics from Saint Joseph’s College, Tiruchirappalli. In 1955, he pursued aerospace engineering at the prestigious Madras Institute of Technology (MIT).
APJ Abdul Kalam wanted to become a fighter pilot, but he could not fulfill his dream due to bad luck. He missed qualifying for the exam by a small margin. He achieved rank ninth, but only eight seats were available with the IAF.
Career of APJ Abdul Kalam
Kalam, after that, got employed as a scientist at the Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) of the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO). Where he also worked under profound scientist Vikram Sarabhai.
Further, he was transferred to the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) in 1969. He was established as the project Director of the satellite launch vehicle (SLV) at ISRO. As the director, he successfully deployed the satellite Rohini into orbit in 1980.
It was India’s first-ever SLV. Abdul Kalam also worked to develop PSLV, Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle. Kalam was a born leader. He was the director of two projects, Project Devil and Project Valiant, to develop ballistic missiles from satellite launch vehicle (SLV) technology.
His leadership and research qualities qualified him to direct an advanced missile development program.
APJ Abdul Kalam is also known for being the ‘Missile Man of India’ for his assistance in the development of ballistic missile technology.
During R Venkataraman’s time as Defence Minister of India, Kalam was appointed as the chief executive of a project developing a fleet of missiles, known as the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme.
APJ Abdul Kalam as the President
In 1992 Kalam began his journey in politics. From 1992 – 1999, Kalam was designated as the Chief Scientific Adviser (CSA) to the Prime Minister and the Secretary of DRDO. During this time, Kalam was named India’s best-known scientist.
Abdul Kalam evolved the 11th President of India in 2002. Kalam had won the election by a large margin. APJ Abdul Kalam was the first ever scientist and bachelor to become the President of India.
His term as the President is beneficial for the nation. He became known as the People’s President. His love for children made him popular among the nation. He visited many schools and was known for his motivational speeches.
After his term as Presidency finished, Kalam visited IIM Indore, IIM Shillong, IIM Ahmedabad, the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, and Anna University as a visiting professor.
Death of APJ Abdul Kalam
APJ Kalam died while doing what he loved. While giving a lecture at IIM Shillong, Kalam died from a heart attack on 27 July 2015.
His death was a shock to many, and grief was expressed by people worldwide. The government of India announced a seven-day state mourning to commemorate Kalam. Many other countries, including the United Nations, conveyed their grief.
Abdul Kalam was rested with full honors at his homeland Rameswaram.
APJ Kalam was a man known for his integrity and honesty. His love and interest in improving children’s futures are still encouraging. His motivational speech still gives courage and hope to many.
PrTechNews pays tribute to the noble soul of Kalam Sir and wishes we all ally with the vision what he perceived for India.
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