A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, known as the “Missile Man of India,” was a prominent aerospace scientist and the 11th President of India. Here’s an overview of his life, career, and family.
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| Full Name: | Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam |
| Date of Birth: | October 15, 1931 |
| Place of Birth: | Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, India |
| Date of Death: | July 27, 2015 (aged 83) |
Early Life and Education
The “Missile Man of India,” A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, was born in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, on October 15, 1931. His mother was a homemaker, and his father was a mosque priest, so he hailed from a modest upbringing. Kalam was adamant about continuing his studies in spite of financial limitations. After earning a degree in physics from St. Joseph’s College in Tiruchirappalli, he went on to the Madras Institute of Technology to finish his degree in aerospace engineering.
Career Beginnings
Kalam started his career at the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), where he made a substantial contribution to the creation of satellite launch vehicles. His efforts paved the way for India’s space technology breakthroughs. He then became a member of the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO), where he was instrumental in developing India’s missiles.
Notable Achievements
His participation in the 1998 Pokhran-II nuclear tests, which made India a nuclear power, was one of his most noteworthy accomplishments. He gained respect and appreciation both domestically and abroad for his vision and leadership throughout this period.
- Missile Development: Played an important part in India’s missile development programs, including the Agni and Prithvi missiles, earning the title “Missile Man of India.”
- Pokhran-II Nuclear Tests: Played a key role in India’s 1998 nuclear tests, which established the country as a nuclear power and displayed its technological capabilities.
- The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) contributed to India’s satellite launch vehicles, particularly the SLV-3, which successfully launched a satellite into orbit in 1980.
- Presidency (2002β2007): As India’s 11th President, he prioritized young empowerment, education, and scientific advancement, leaving a lasting impression on the country.
- Author: Wrote several inspirational books, including “Wings of Fire” and “Ignited Minds,” which inspired millions to follow their ambitions and innovate.
- Honors and Awards: For his services to science and society, he was bestowed with a number of honors, including India’s highest civilian award, the Bharat Ratna.
Presidency
Kalam was elected as India’s eleventh president in 2002. During his leadership, education and youth empowerment were given a lot of attention. He was well-known for being personable and frequently engaged with students, encouraging them to set lofty objectives and follow their dreams.
Post-Presidency Contributions
Through his writings and speeches, Kalam continued to have an impact on the younger generation after leaving office as president. He wrote a number of books, such as “Ignited Minds,” which promotes creativity and innovation, and “Wings of Fire,” which details his path from a small town to the presidency.
Personal Life
A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was renowned for leading a simple and lowly existence. He was raised in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, in a close-knit family and maintained a strong bond with his heritage throughout of his life. Unmarried, Kalam made the decision to focus entirely on his career, frequently declaring that his love of science and helping others was his actual vocation.
He had an unostentatious existence and was renowned for his basic habits. He was approachable to people of all backgrounds and, despite his enormous achievements, he kept a humble manner. In his regular interactions with kids, Kalam emphasized the value of hard work and education while urging them to follow their ambitions.
Kalam drew inspiration from his beliefs and was also a very spiritual guy. His life was enhanced by his love of poetry, music, and the outdoors, and he frequently found comfort in these activities. He had a lasting impression on India’s youth by continuing to teach and advise even in his elder years.
He became a popular figure in Indian society due to his commitment to public service and his ability to relate to the general population, giving him the moniker “Peopleβs President.”
Net Worth
In comparison to many famous celebrities, A.P.J. Abdul Kalam had a small net worth and was renowned for leading a simple and modest life. Although exact numbers are not well known, estimations place his net worth somewhere around a few crores of Indian rupees.
Kalam prioritized education and service over accumulating fortune for himself. He frequently said that the love and respect he garnered from the public, particularly the young people he inspired throughout his career, was his actual wealth. His ideals of integrity and humility were reflected in his constant focus on giving back to society rather than amassing wealth.
