The father of the Indian missile program, who was christened the Missile Man of India and the People President, A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, was a visionary scientist, teacher and leader who made an indelible impact on India. Having been born on October 15, 1931 in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, the journey taken by Kalam, who climbed his way out of a lowly background to become the 11th President of India, is quite impending. He made significant contributions to the development of the missile program of India, its nuclear potential and space research, which made him world-known.
Kalam was not just a great scientist; he also possessed a curriculum vitae as a teacher and a motivator who engaged the youth very deeply and encouraged them to dream big. This article features an elaborate Short Biography Of APJ Abdul Kalam In English language bearing on his childhood days, technical contributions, presidentship and legacy.
Early Life and Education
A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was born in a small family of Tamil Muslim who lived in Rameswaram. His father, Jainulabdeen, was a boat owner and imam whereas his mother, Ashiamma, was a housewife. Kalam was the last born child of 5 children. In spite of financial constraints, he was an intelligent boy with interest in mathematics and science.
- Completed early education at Schwartz Higher Secondary School, Rameswaram
- Graduated in Physics from St. Joseph’s College, Tiruchirapalli in 1954
- Pursued Aeronautical Engineering at the Madras Institute of Technology in 1955
Even as a child, Kalam demonstrated determination and resilience, selling newspapers to support his family while excelling in academics.
Career as a Scientist
After graduating, Kalam joined the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in 1958, where he worked on designing a small hovercraft. In 1969, he moved to Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and became the project director of the SLV-III, India’s first satellite launch vehicle. In 1980, the SLV-III successfully placed the Rohini satellite into near-Earth orbit, putting India on the global space map.
Contributions to India’s Missile Program
In 1982, Kalam rejoined DRDO to lead the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme, which produced several successful missiles, including:
- Agni – India’s first intermediate-range ballistic missile (first launched in 1989)
- Prithvi – A surface-to-surface tactical missile
These achievements earned him the title “Missile Man of India.”
Role in Nuclear Tests
Kalam played a pivotal role in India’s nuclear program, particularly during Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998, which established India as a nuclear power. He also introduced Technology Vision 2020, a roadmap for transforming India into a developed nation through advancements in agriculture, technology, health, and education.
Presidency (2002–2007)
In 2002, Kalam was elected as India’s 11th President, nominated by the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and supported by the opposition Congress party. He defeated Lakshmi Sahgal and became known as the “People’s President” due to his humility, simplicity, and connection with citizens, especially students.
- Term: July 25, 2002 – July 25, 2007
- Succeeded by: Pratibha Patil
- Focus: Education, youth empowerment, technology-driven national development
During his presidency, Kalam took courageous decisions and remained committed to the welfare of the country while inspiring millions with his speeches and writings.
Legacy and Post-Presidency
After leaving office, Kalam devoted his life to teaching, writing, and inspiring the next generation:
- Visiting professor at Indian Institutes of Management and Anna University
- Founding chancellor of the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram
- Advocated youth development and launched the program “What Can I Give?” to fight corruption
Kalam passed away on July 27, 2015, while delivering a lecture at IIM Shillong, leaving behind a legacy of inspiration and patriotism.
Quick Facts About A.P.J. Abdul Kalam
| Fact | Details |
| Full Name | Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam |
| Date of Birth | October 15, 1931 |
| Place of Birth | Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, India |
| Date of Death | July 27, 2015 |
| Place of Death | Shillong, India |
| Occupation | Scientist, President of India, Educator |
| Known For | Missile Program, Nuclear Tests, SLV-III Project |
| Nicknames | Missile Man of India, People’s President |
| Education | Physics (St. Joseph’s College), Aeronautical Engineering (MIT) |
| Awards | Bharat Ratna (1997), Padma Vibhushan (1990), Padma Bhushan (1981) |
| Books | Wings of Fire, Ignited Minds, India 2020 |
Major Achievements
- Led India’s SLV-III project and successful satellite launch
- Pioneered Agni and Prithvi missiles
- Key role in Pokhran-II nuclear tests
- Authored inspirational books like Wings of Fire and Ignited Minds
- Received India’s highest civilian award, Bharat Ratna
Interesting Facts
- Kalam was a lifelong vegetarian and first bachelor President of India
- Loved interacting with children and students nationwide
- His autobiography Wings of Fire was translated into 13 languages
- A missile test site in Odisha was renamed Abdul Kalam Island in his honor
Conclusion
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s life is a perfect example of dedication, humility, and vision. From a small town in Tamil Nadu to becoming a world-renowned scientist and India’s President, Kalam inspired millions to dream big and work tirelessly toward achieving their goals. His contributions to India’s defense, space, and education sectors continue to impact generations, making him an immortal figure in the country’s history.
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