Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, also known as “Missile Man of India”, was an Indian scientist and politician who served as the 11th President of India from 2002 to 2007. He was born on October 15, 1931 in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, India and died on July 27, 2015 in Shillong, Meghalaya, India.
Kalam was a renowned aerospace engineer and played a key role in India’s civilian space program and military missile development. He was also a professor of Aerospace Engineering at the Indian Institute of Technology in New Delhi.
In addition to his scientific and engineering accomplishments, Kalam was also a well-known public speaker and author, writing several books on subjects such as technology, education and inspiration. He was also a strong advocate for education and was involved in various educational initiatives in India.
Kalam was widely respected and admired by the Indian people, and his death was met with widespread mourning. He is often referred to as the “People’s President” and continues to be remembered and honored for his contributions to India’s development.
Educational qualifications of APJ Abdul Kalam
A.P.J. Abdul Kalam had a number of educational qualifications. He completed his early education in Rameswaram and completed his secondary education from Saint Joseph’s College, Tiruchirappalli.
He graduated in Physics from Saint Joseph’s College, Tiruchirappalli in 1954. He then studied aerospace engineering at Madras Institute of Technology, Chennai and graduated in 1960.
Kalam also received an honorary doctorate from many universities such as Doctor of Science from Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, Doctor of Science from Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee, Doctor of Science from Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati, Doctor of Science from Indian Institute of Technology, Madras, Doctor of Science from Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur, Doctor of Science from Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, Doctor of Science from Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay, Doctor of Science from Indian Institute of Technology, Bhubaneswar, Doctor of Science from Indian Institute of Technology, Gandhinagar, Doctor of Science from Indian Institute of Technology, Hyderabad, Doctor of Science from Indian Institute of Technology, Patna, Doctor of Science from Indian Institute of Technology, Ropar, Doctor of Science from Indian Institute of Technology, Indore, Doctor of Science from Indian Institute of Technology, Mandi, Doctor of Science from Indian Institute of Technology, Varanasi, Doctor of Science from Indian Institute of Technology, Jodhpur, Doctor of Science from Indian Institute of Technology, Palakkad, Doctor of Science from Indian Institute of Technology, Dharwad, Doctor of Science from Indian Institute of Technology, Bhilai, Doctor of Science from Indian Institute of Technology, Goa, Doctor of Science from Indian Institute of Technology, Tirupati, Doctor of Science from Indian Institute of Technology, Dhanbad, Doctor of Science from Indian Institute of Technology, Jammu, Doctor of Science from Indian Institute of Technology, Ranchi, Doctor of Science from Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee and Doctor of Science from Indian Institute of Technology, BHU.
His work contribute to India’s development
A.P.J. Abdul Kalam made significant contributions to India’s development, particularly in the field of science and technology. He played a key role in India’s civilian space program and military missile development, serving as the chief scientific advisor to the Indian government and the chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
He was the project director of India’s first satellite launch vehicle (SLV-III) which successfully injected Rohini satellite in the near Earth orbit in July 1980 and made India join the exclusive club of nations having the capability to launch satellites.
He also played a major role in the development of the country’s first indigenous satellite launch vehicle, the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and the development of the Agni and Prithvi ballistic missiles.
Kalam also made significant contributions to the field of education, particularly in the area of scientific education and research. He was a strong advocate for the development of technology-driven education in India and was involved in a number of initiatives to promote scientific literacy and research in the country.
His work in science and technology, Kalam also made significant contributions to the fields of education, research, and public service. He was a strong advocate for the development of technology-driven education in India and was involved in a number of initiatives to promote scientific literacy and research in the country.
After his presidency, he continued to work on the development of India and was actively involved in several social initiatives and movements, promoting education, peace, and public welfare. He also actively engaged with the youth of the country and was a mentor to many young people.

Legacy of APJ Abdul Kalam
A.P.J. Abdul Kalam has left a lasting legacy in India. He is widely regarded as the “People’s President” and “Missile Man of India” for his contributions to India’s civilian space program and military missile development.
He is also remembered for his work in the field of education, particularly in the area of science education and research. He was a strong advocate for the development of technology-driven education in India and was involved in a number of initiatives to promote scientific literacy and research in the country.
Kalam’s legacy also includes his focus on the development of India’s youth, as he was actively engaged with young people and acted as a mentor to many of them. His initiatives in the field of education, science, and technology have helped the country to build a strong foundation for the future.
After his death, the government of India announced the creation of the Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam National Memorial at Rameswaram, the place where he was born, as a tribute to his life and work. Many of his books are also widely read and they are used as educational materials.
His speeches, quotes, and writings continue to inspire many Indians today, particularly the youth. His legacy is one of hard work, dedication, and a commitment to serving the country and its people.
The awards and honors bestowed upon APJ Abdul Kalam.
A.P.J. Abdul Kalam received several awards and honors throughout his life for his contributions to India’s development. Some of the most notable ones include:
- Bharat Ratna: India’s highest civilian award, which he received in 1997 for his exceptional service to the nation.
- Padma Bhushan: A third-highest civilian award in the Republic of India, awarded by the Government of India in 1981.
- Padma Vibhushan: The second-highest civilian award in the Republic of India, awarded by the Government of India in 1990.
- Veer Savarkar Award: India’s highest award for patriotic contributions, which he received in 1998.
- Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development: He was awarded this in 1997 for his efforts to strengthen international cooperation in the field of nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation.
- Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa): He received an honorary degree from several universities including Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay, Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur, Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee, Indian Institute of Technology, Madras, Indian Institute of Technology, Hyderabad, Indian Institute of Technology, Patna, Indian Institute of Technology, Ropar, Indian Institute of Technology, Gandhinagar, Indian Institute of Technology, Jodhpur, Indian Institute of Technology, Bhubaneswar, Indian Institute of Technology, Indore, Indian Institute of Technology, Mandi, Indian Institute of Technology, Jammu, Indian Institute of Technology, Varanasi, Indian Institute of Technology, Goa, Indian Institute of Technology, Palakkad, Indian Institute of Technology, Tirupati, Indian Institute of Technology, Dharwad, Indian Institute of Technology, Bhilai, Indian Institute of Technology, Dhanbad, Indian Institute of Technology, Amritsar, Indian Institute of Technology, Bhilai, Indian Institute of Technology, Dhanbad, Indian Institute of Technology, Amritsar, Indian Institute of Technology, Raipur, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay, Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur, Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee, Indian Institute of Technology, Madras, Indian Institute of Technology, Hyderabad, Indian Institute of Technology, Patna, Indian Institute of Technology, Ropar, Indian Institute of Technology, Gandhinagar, Indian Institute of Technology, Jodhpur, Indian Institute of Technology, Bhubaneswar, Indian Institute of Technology, Indore, Indian Institute of Technology, Mandi, Indian Institute of Technology, Jammu, Indian Institute of Technology, Varanasi, Indian Institute of Technology, Goa, Indian Institute of Technology, Palakkad, Indian Institute of Technology, Tirupati, Indian Institute of Technology, Dharwad, Indian Institute of Technology, Bhilai, Indian Institute of Technology, Dhanbad, Indian Institute of Technology, Amritsar, Indian Institute of Technology, Bhilai, Indian Institute of Technology, Dhanbad, Indian Institute of Technology, Amritsar, Indian Institute of Technology, Raipur, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee, Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay, Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur, Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee, Indian Institute of Technology, Madras, Indian Institute of Technology, Hyderabad, Indian Institute
How did the life and work of APJ Abdul Kalam inspire the youth of India?
APJ Abdul Kalam, also known as the “Missile Man of India,” was a highly respected scientist and politician who made significant contributions to India’s development, particularly in the field of aerospace engineering. He served as the President of India from 2002 to 2007, and his work and life were an inspiration to many young people in India. He was known for his simple and humble lifestyle, his dedication to education, and his focus on the welfare of the people, particularly the youth. During his presidency, he made several efforts to improve the education system and to encourage the youth of India to pursue careers in science and technology. He also wrote several books, including a memoir and several books on science, education and leadership, which also inspired many young people. After his death in 2015, many institutions and programs have been set up in his memory, and he continues to be remembered as one of India’s most beloved leaders and an inspiration to the youth of India.
What message does APJ Abdul Kalam have for future generations?
APJ Abdul Kalam had a number of messages for future generations, many of which he shared through his speeches, writings and public appearances. Some of his key messages include:
- The importance of education: Kalam believed that education was the key to unlocking the potential of individuals and the nation as a whole. He urged young people to pursue education with passion and dedication and to use their education to serve society.
- The need for hard work and determination: Kalam emphasized the importance of hard work and determination in achieving one’s goals, whether in education, career or personal life. He encouraged people to set high goals for themselves and to work tirelessly to achieve them.
- The importance of creativity and innovation: Kalam believed that India’s progress and development depended on its ability to innovate and create new things. He encouraged young people to think creatively and to develop new ideas and technologies that could benefit society.
- The need for self-confidence and self-reliance: Kalam believed that India’s progress depended on the self-confidence and self-reliance of its citizens. He encouraged young people to believe in themselves and to take responsibility for their own lives and their own future.
- The importance of serving others: Kalam believed that true success and happiness come from serving others. He encouraged young people to use their talents and skills to serve others, particularly the less fortunate.
This message still resonates with future generations of India.
What were some of the notable achievements of APJ Abdul Kalam’s administration?
APJ Abdul Kalam served as the President of India from 2002 to 2007. During his tenure, he made several notable contributions to India’s development. Some of his notable achievements include:
- Nuclear power: Kalam played a key role in India’s nuclear power program, particularly the development of the indigenous nuclear fuel cycle and nuclear power generation.
- Defense technology: He was instrumental in the development of India’s strategic missile program, including the successful test-firing of the Agni and Prithvi missiles.
- Space technology: Kalam was closely associated with India’s space program, particularly the development of satellite-based remote sensing technology.
- Education: Kalam was a strong advocate for education and worked to promote literacy and vocational training programs across the country.
- Public service: Kalam made several public service initiatives such as Pulse Polio and developed a national policy for the youth of India to achieve their full potential.
- Inspiration: He was a role model for the youth of India and continues to be an inspiration for many young people even after his death.
These achievements made him a highly respected figure in India and helped to establish him as one of the country’s most influential leaders.
The life and works of APJ Abdul Kalam
APJ Abdul Kalam’s life and work can provide many valuable lessons for future generations. Some of the key lessons that can be learned from his life include:
- Hard work and determination: Kalam’s rise from humble beginnings to become one of India’s most respected leaders is a testament to the power of hard work and determination.
- Pursuit of excellence: Kalam’s achievements in the fields of science, technology, and education demonstrate the importance of constantly striving for excellence in one’s work.
- Service to others: Kalam’s dedication to public service and his efforts to improve the lives of ordinary people serve as an example of the importance of putting others before oneself.
- Vision and leadership: Kalam’s ability to articulate a vision for India’s development and his leadership in bringing that vision to fruition can be an inspiration to others.
- Inspiration: Kalam’s life and works have been an inspiration to many people in India and around the world, showing how one person can make a difference in the world.
- Humility: Throughout his life, Kalam remained humble and always put the needs of others before his own. He was always approachable and that is one of the important factors of being a leader.
- Consistency and perseverance: Kalam was consistent in his approach to work and always persevered even in the face of adversity. This is a valuable lesson for anyone looking to achieve their goals.
- Respect for education: Kalam was a strong advocate for education, and his emphasis on the importance of education can serve as an inspiration for future generations to value education as a means to personal and societal development.
Death of APJ Abdulkalam
APJ Abdul Kalam passed away on July 27, 2015, at the age of 83. He suffered a cardiac arrest while delivering a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management, Shillong, and was taken to the nearby Bethany Hospital where he later passed away. His death was met with widespread grief and condolences from political leaders, celebrities, and the general public. He was given a state funeral and was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, and was remembered for his contributions to the country as a scientist and statesman.