A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

📌 Basic Information

• Full Name: Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam

• Born: 15 October 1931

• Birthplace: Rameswaram

• Died: 27 July 2015, Shillong

• Nationality: Indian

• Profession: Aerospace Scientist, Professor, Author

• Famous As: “Missile Man of India” & 11th President of India

👶 Early Life

Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was born into a humble Tamil Muslim family in Rameswaram. His father was a boat owner, and his mother was a homemaker. Despite financial difficulties, Kalam was a bright student and deeply interested in science and mathematics.

He sold newspapers as a child to support his family while continuing his education.

🎓 Education

• Graduated in Physics from University of Madras

• Studied Aerospace Engineering at Madras Institute of Technology

His dream was to become a fighter pilot, but he later chose to serve the nation through science and research.

🚀 Scientific Career

Dr. Kalam played a major role in India’s space and missile development programs.

He worked with:

• ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation)

• DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation)

Major Contributions:

• Development of Agni and Prithvi missiles

• Key role in India’s Pokhran-II nuclear tests (1998)

• Strengthened India’s defense and space capabilities

Because of his missile development work, he became known as the “Missile Man of India.”

🏛️ Presidency (2002–2007)

Dr. Kalam became the 11th President of India in 2002.

He was widely loved by the public and was called the “People’s President.”

• Education

• Youth empowerment

• Scientific development

• Vision 2020 for India

📚 Books Written

He authored several inspiring books, including:

• 

  Wings of Fire
  

• Ignited Minds

• India 2020

His books motivate millions of students and young professionals.

🏅 Awards & Honors

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

• Padma Bhushan (1981)

• Padma Vibhushan (1990)

He received honorary doctorates from many universities worldwide.

💔 Death

On 27 July 2015, Dr. Kalam collapsed while delivering a lecture at IIM Shillong and passed away. He died doing what he loved most — teaching and inspiring students.

🌟 Legacy

• Celebrated as a symbol of humility, simplicity, and dedication

• 15 October is observed as World Students’ Day in his honor

• Continues to inspire youth with his message:

  “Dream, dream, dream. Dreams transform into thoughts and thoughts result in action.”