Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam Azad, also known as the “Missile Man of India,” was the 11th President of India, serving from 2002 to 2007. He was born on October 15, 1931, in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, India. He came from a humble background, his father was a boat owner and he himself sold newspapers to support his family financially during his childhood.
Dr. Kalam completed his education at Rameswaram Elementary School, Schwartz Higher Secondary School, Ramanathapuram, and Saint Joseph’s College, Tiruchirappalli. He graduated in aeronautical engineering from Madras Institute of Technology (MIT), Chennai in 1960. He started his career at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and later joined Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
He played a key role in India’s civilian space program and military missile development. He was responsible for the development of India’s first satellite launch vehicle which successfully deployed Rohini, the satellite in near-earth orbit in July 1980. He is also known as the “Missile Man of India” for his work on the development of ballistic missile technology.
Dr. Kalam was also a visiting professor at several universities in India and abroad, and an author of several books, including the popular “Wings of Fire” and “Ignited Minds.” He was a recipient of numerous awards and honors, including the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, in 1997.
After his tenure as the President of India, Dr. Kalam returned to a life of education and writing. He continued to inspire the youth of India through his speeches and interactions. He passed away on July 27, 2015, while delivering a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management, Shillong.
Dr. Kalam was known for his simplicity and humility. He lived an austere lifestyle and never owned a car or a house. He was a vegetarian and a spiritual person who always followed his daily routine of exercise, yoga, and meditation. He will always be remembered as a great leader who inspired and worked towards the betterment of India and its people.