APJ Abdul Kalam: The Missile Man of India

Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam was the former President of India. He was one of the most popular scientists. His full name was Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam. Humble and dedicated to education, APJ Abdul Kalam was the man behind India’s space and missile programs. Hence, he earned the title ‘Missile Man of India.’ This Indian scientist’s drive, motivation, and vision for a developed India have inspired millions of people across the globe. The simplicity of the president and his commitment and loyalty to his country are well depicted in Abdul Kalam’s biography. 

Bio Table

Full Name	Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam
Known As	APJ Abdul Kalam
Date of Birth	October 15, 1931
Age (as of 2015)	83
Death	July 27, 2015
Hometown	Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu
Nationality	Indian
Religion	Islam
Caste	Sunni Muslim
Profession	Scientist, Engineer, Politician
Weight	66 kg
Height	5’6″
Coach/Mentor	Dr. Vikram Sarabhai
Net Worth	Not publicly known
Marital Status	Unmarried
Political Party	Independent
Education	Aerospace Engineering

Who was APJ Abdul Kalam?

APJ Abdul Kalam, an aerospace scientist, was principally in charge of India’s space and missile development projects. He was the 11th President of India from 2002 to 2007. Abdul Kalam’s biography is one of the examples of how he started from a small town and became one of the most respected people in the world. Many people learnt from him thanks to his uncomplicated way of living, unwavering commitment to studies, and passion for work. 

Early Life, Family, and Education

APJ Abdul Kalam was born on 15th October 1931 in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, to a poor and typical family. His father was a fisherman, and his mother was a housewife. Even though the family was poor, they instilled in him the importance of hard work and education. Schwartz Higher Secondary School was Abdul Kalam’s first elementary school. Later, he went to the Madras Institute of Technology for aerospace engineering.

APJ Abdul Kalam was an inquisitive child who was always trying to understand every little thing in the world. Although he was a child, his talent in flying and aeronautics was amazing. His talent and hard work took him to a career in the space and missile technology fields. His education and experience formed the basis of his achievements.

Family Table

Father’s Name	Jainulabdeen
Mother’s Name	Ashiamma
Siblings	5 brothers and sisters
Wife Name	N/A
Children’s Name	N/A

Career

After completing his studies, APJ Abdul Kalam began working as a scientist with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Later, he moved on to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), where he played a key role in major projects. One of his most notable contributions was the development of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). It helped in putting India on the map of space exploration. He was also deeply involved in the development of India’s ballistic missile programs, such as the AGNI and PRITHVI missiles. These achievements earned him the affectionate title of “Missile Man of India.”

In 2002, Kalam became the President of India after being elected in the presidential elections. During his presidency, he focused on engaging with young people, encouraging them to take education seriously and to foster innovation. He spent much of his time meeting students across the country, motivating them to dream big and work hard. Even after his term as president ended, Kalam continued to dedicate his life to teaching and inspiring the youth. His career left a lasting mark on science, education, and public service.

Famous For

In the Indian Missile Program, Abdul Kalam played a very significant role in becoming the Chief Executive of India’s Premier Space organization. Through Abdul Kalam’s biography, the reader concludes that he was a man who facilitated education, friendly innovations, and unity for millions of people. He turned into a nationalist, and everywhere he was heralded as a great man. 

Achievements

APJ Abdul Kalam was bestowed with many awards, and those include the highest civilian honour, which is the Bharat Ratna. He also performed remarkable work on satellite launch vehicles and ballistic missiles, which changed the landscape of India’s defence system. He has written several books, some of them are Wings of Fire and Ignited Mind, to enlighten young minds.

Death

Former President of India APJ Abdul Kalam died on July 27, 2015. He died while giving a speech at the Indian Institute of Management, Shillong. He died doing what he enjoyed most, which was teaching as well as engaging with students. His untimely demise indeed was a big blow to the country. People in general and of all classes grieved at his demise. His legacy that exists to date comprises of teachings as well as achievements.

Unknown Facts

• Humble Beginnings: Despite becoming one of India’s top scientists, APJ Abdul Kalam never forgot his humble roots.
• Passion for Teaching: Even after his presidency, he returned to teaching because he loved interacting with students.
• Vegetarian: He was a lifelong vegetarian and followed a simple lifestyle.
• No Personal Wealth: APJ Abdul Kalam did not accumulate wealth or own any property, dedicating his life to public service.
• Music lover: He enjoyed listening to classical music and playing the veena, a traditional Indian instrument.

Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, being the President of India from 2002 – 2007, had great leadership skills. Another political figure from India that everyone considers a great figure in the history of India, is Mahatma Gandhi. Learn more about him in the biography of Mahatma Gandhi.

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