Abdul Kalam

Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, often referred to as the “Missile Man of India,” is celebrated for his pivotal role in India’s space and missile programs. However, his journey to becoming one of India’s most esteemed scientists and its 11th President began with humble beginnings.

Early Life and Humble Beginnings

Born on October 15, 1931, in Rameswaram, a small island town in Tamil Nadu, Abdul Kalam was raised in a modest family. His father, Jainulabdeen, was a boat owner and imam of a local mosque, while his mother, Ashiamma, was a homemaker. Despite the family’s limited financial means, they were rich in values, instilling in Kalam a strong sense of discipline, education, and hard work.

As a young boy, Kalam sold newspapers to supplement his family’s income. This job was more than a means of financial support; it taught him the importance of diligence and time management. His early morning newspaper delivery routine did not deter him from excelling in his studies. Kalam’s curiosity and passion for learning were evident from a young age, particularly in science and mathematics.

Education and Early Career

Kalam’s academic journey began at the Schwartz Higher Secondary School in Ramanathapuram. His teachers recognized his potential and encouraged him to pursue higher education. He went on to attend Saint Joseph’s College in Tiruchirappalli, where he graduated with a degree in physics in 1954. However, it was his pursuit of aerospace engineering at the Madras Institute of Technology (MIT) that set the foundation for his future contributions to India’s space and defense capabilities.

After graduating from MIT in 1960, Kalam joined the Aeronautical Development Establishment of the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) as a scientist. His initial years were challenging, as he worked on a small hovercraft project. Despite the project’s limited success, it was during this period that Kalam began to demonstrate his ability to innovate and lead.

Rise to Prominence

Kalam’s career took a significant turn when he joined the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in 1969. Here, he was the project director of India’s first satellite launch vehicle (SLV-III), which successfully deployed the Rohini satellite in near-earth orbit in 1980. This achievement marked India’s entry into the space age and established Kalam as a key figure in Indian aerospace.

His success at ISRO led to a prominent role in India’s missile development program. In the 1980s, Kalam returned to DRDO and played a leading role in the Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP), which produced a series of successful missiles, including Agni and Prithvi. His work earned him the moniker “Missile Man of India” and numerous accolades, including the Padma Bhushan (1981) and Padma Vibhushan (1990).

Presidency and Legacy

In 2002, Kalam was elected the 11th President of India, serving until 2007. Known as the “People’s President,” he was beloved for his accessibility, humility, and dedication to education and youth empowerment. Even after his presidency, Kalam continued to engage with students, inspiring millions with his vision for a developed India by 2020.

Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s life story is a testament to the power of perseverance, education, and dreaming big. From a newspaper boy in Rameswaram to the President of India and a globally respected scientist, his journey epitomizes the spirit of rising above one’s circumstances through hard work and dedication. His legacy continues to inspire future generations to strive for excellence and contribute to the betterment of society.