Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam

Early Life and Education (1931–1954)

Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam was born into a humble Tamil Muslim family in Rameswaram. His father, Jainulabdeen, was a boat owner and imam of a local mosque, and his mother, Ashiamma, was a homemaker. Despite financial struggles, the family valued simplicity, discipline, and education.

Kalam worked as a newspaper vendor in his childhood to support his family and continue his studies. He completed his schooling at Ramanathapuram Schwartz Higher Secondary School and later graduated in Physics from St. Joseph’s College, Tiruchirappalli in 1954.

He then pursued Aerospace Engineering at Madras Institute of Technology (MIT), where his passion for flight and space science truly began.

Early Career at DRDO (1958–1969)

After graduating, Kalam joined the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) as a scientist. His early work included designing small aircraft models and assisting in India’s first hovercraft project. Although he felt limited at DRDO, the experience shaped his engineering foundations.

ISRO and India’s Space Program (1969–1982)

Kalam transferred to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), where he became the Project Director of India’s first Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV-3).

Major Achievements at ISRO:

1. Directed the successful launch of SLV-3 in 1980, which placed the Rohini satellite into orbit — India’s first indigenously developed launch vehicle.
2. Played a key role in developing PSLV and ASLV systems.
3. Contributed to the foundation of India’s space capabilities and self-reliance.

This era established Kalam as one of India’s leading aerospace scientists.

Return to DRDO and Missile Development (1982–1999)

In 1982, Kalam returned to DRDO as the head of the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP).

Major Achievements:

1. Development of Agni, Prithvi, Akash, Trishul, and Nag missiles.
2. Creation of indigenous missile technologies that strengthened India’s defence.
3. Led to his title “Missile Man of India.”

Pokhran-II Nuclear Tests (1998)

Kalam played a central role in the Pokhran-II nuclear tests, making India a nuclear-weapon state. His leadership earned him national pride and recognition.

Presidency of India (2002–2007)

Dr. Kalam served as the 11th President of India from 2002 to 2007.

Why he was called the People’s President:

1. His simplicity and humility.
2. Deep connection with students and youth.
3. Promoting education, innovation, and national development.
4. Vision for Transforming India into a Developed Nation by 2020 (Vision 2020).

His presidency focused on national security, scientific growth, and empowering youth through knowledge.

Life After Presidency (2007–2015)

After completing his term, Kalam dedicated his life to teaching, writing, and inspiring students.

He served as visiting professor at:

1. IIM Shillong
2. IITs
3. Anna University
4. Several other national institutions

He wrote many books, including:

1. Wings of Fire
2. Ignited Minds
3. India 2020
4. The Life Tree
5. Transcendence

His speeches and writings motivated millions across India and the world.

Death

On 27 July 2015, Dr. Kalam passed away while delivering a lecture at IIM Shillong. He collapsed on stage due to cardiac arrest, doing what he loved most — teaching students.

Awards and Honors

1. Bharat Ratna (1997)
2. Padma Vibhushan (1990)
3. Padma Bhushan (1981)
4. Numerous international awards and honorary doctorates

His birth anniversary, 15 October, is celebrated as World Students’ Day.

Legacy

Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam’s life remains a symbol of:

1. Simplicity
2. Scientific excellence
3. Patriotism
4. Inspiration to youth
5. Dedication to education
6. Vision for a developed India

He proved that greatness is achieved not by birth, but by effort, hard work, and determination.