From a small town boy to the “Missile Man of India”: Dr. A.P.J Abdul Kalam

Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam

Dr. Babli Parveen / Awaz e Khwateen,

Every teacher once was a student Every winner once was a loser Every expert once was a beginner, But all of them have crossed the bridge called Learning

Dr. A.P.J Abdul Kalam (Bharat Ratna President of India)

India remembering to Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, on his 90^th birth anniversary. He was an epitome of intelligence and wisdom combined with simplicity, who left indelible marks on whatever he touched. He inspired millions across the world. India is grateful to him for his incredible contributions and enabling the youth to dream big and fulfil those dreams. He was not only a renowned Scientist but a great human being who always motivated youngsters by his humble teachings and inspiring words.

The nation remembers him, each time India accomplishes a feat in the area of science, especially space and missiles. He also served as the 11th President of India, he was an instrumental force behind the development  of Agni and Prithvi missiles. Dr Kalam also authored numerous books, including the famous Wings of Fire and Ignited Minds, which inspired children and adults alike to pursue their dreams.

 

Life Journey of the “Missile Man of India”

His personal story, too, was nothing short of a superhero's. Born on October 15, 1931, in a modest family in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, Dr Kalam faced hardships during his childhood but never gave up. After finishing school at the Schwartz Higher Secondary School, Dr Kalam went to St. Joseph's College for his graduation in Physics. It's said that he would study hours without a break and focused especially on mathematics. Following his graduation, Dr Kalam acquired a degree in aeronautical engineering from the Madras Institute of Technology. In 1958, Dr Kalam joined the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and over a decade later, in 1969, he moved to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). He was the project director for the SLV- III, the first satellite launch vehicle, designed and produced in India. Dr Kalam returned to DRDO in 1982 and implemented the Integrated Guided Missile Development Program, which later earned him the famous nickname of the "Missile Man of India".He successfully led the development of Agni and Prithvi, the indigenous guided missiles. Let's take a look at his five other major scientific offerings to India;

 

·       India's first Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV)- Dr Kalam's had put in over 10-year-long hard work as the project director for the development of the indigenous Satellite Launch Vehicle at ISRO that ultimately resulted in one of the greatest scientific development of indigenous Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV).

·       Ballistic missiles project- The projects Devil and Valiant headed by APJ Abdul Kalam aimed at developing ballistic missiles using the technology behind the successful SLV program. Under Kalam Mission, the two missiles Agni and Prithvi did get the boost along with other projects.

·       Nuclear tests at Pokhran- Abdul Kalam played a major role in heading the Pokhran-II nuclear testing, being the chief scientific man of the then Prime Minister, leading to him being known as the best nuclear scientist of the country at that time. The nuclear testing under the supervision of Kalam during the period of July 1992 to December 1999 made India a nuclear-armed state.

·       Universal healthcare plan- Working jointly with cardiologist Soma Raju, the late President developed a cost-effective coronary stent 'Kalam- Raju Stent' which helped in making healthcare accessible to all.

·       'Kalam-Raju tablet'- The duo of Kalam and Soma Raju in 2012 designed a rugged tablet computer for better health care administration in the rural and less reachable areas. They termed it the 'Kalam-Raju tablet.' For his work in the stream of science and politics, the 11th President was also awarded India's highest civilian honour or the Bharat Ratna.

 

World Students' Day

World Student's Day is observed on October15 to commemorate the birth anniversary of the 11th President of India, Dr A.P.J Abdul Kalam.

The United Nations (UN) declared Abdul Kalam's birthday as World Students' Day. The UN decided to honour the great scientist and teacher on his 79th birth anniversary in the year 2010. Abdul Kalam is remembered as the People's President and he is not just limited to his role as a scientist in developing the nation's military missiles, which gave him the nickname Missile Man of India. The Bharat Ratna recipient is also popular for his role as a teacher and continues to do so until his last breath. APJ Abdul Kalam is a true inspiration to every student across the world. The United Nations cannot find a better day other than the birthday of Kalam to dedicate World Students' Day.

 

National Innovation Day

On 15^th October, the National Innovation Day also get celebrated to commemorate the birth anniversary of Honourable Late APJ Abdul Kalam, the former president of India, AICTE and MHRD’S Innovation cell organised “ Innovation Day” in collaboration first time . The idea is basically to encourage young people to be creative and innovative.

Unfortunately, On July 27, 2015, the "Missile Man of India" was delivering a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management, Shillong, when he collapsed and passed away due to a cardiac arrest. He, however, continues to live in the hearts of Indians.

(The author is Historian and Assistant Professor at DU)