Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam – The Missile Man of India

Born: October 15, 1931 | Died: July 27, 2015

👶 Early Life and Education

Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was born in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, in a humble family. His father was a boat owner and imam of a local mosque. Despite financial challenges, Kalam was a bright and hardworking student. He studied physics at St. Joseph’s College and went on to study aerospace engineering at the Madras Institute of Technology (MIT).

🚀 Scientific Career and ISRO

After graduation, Kalam joined the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), followed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). He played a pivotal role in developing India's first satellite launch vehicle (SLV-III) which deployed the Rohini satellite in 1980. His contribution to India's nuclear and missile programs earned him the title “Missile Man of India.”

• SLV-III – India's first satellite launch vehicle
• Agni & Prithvi missile projects
• Pokhran-II nuclear tests (1998)

🇮🇳 President of India (2002–2007)

Dr. Kalam became the 11th President of India in 2002. Known as the “People’s President,” he was widely respected for his humility and dedication to education and innovation. During his term, he connected with millions of students, encouraging them to dream big and serve the nation.

✍️ Author, Speaker, and Teacher

Post-presidency, Dr. Kalam continued to teach at institutions like IIMs, Anna University, and others. He wrote many best-selling books such as:

• Wings of Fire
• Ignited Minds
• India 2020

He believed in igniting young minds and creating a vision for a developed India by 2020.

🕊️ Final Moments and Death

On July 27, 2015, Dr. Kalam passed away while giving a lecture at IIM Shillong. His last moments reflected his lifelong passion: teaching and inspiring youth. He died doing what he loved most — spreading knowledge.

🌟 Awards and Honors

• Padma Bhushan (1981)
• Padma Vibhushan (1990)
• Bharat Ratna (1997) – India’s highest civilian award

💬 Famous Quotes

📚 Legacy

Dr. Kalam's legacy lives on as a symbol of hope, perseverance, and patriotism. His story inspires students, scientists, and leaders worldwide to serve humanity with courage, knowledge, and compassion. He continues to be one of the most admired figures in modern Indian history.