Life, Contributions and Legacy: Tribute to Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam
Commemorate the 9th death anniversary of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, the 'Missile Man of India' and the 11th President of India. Reflect on his life, contributions to aerospace and defense, his inspirational quotes, and his enduring legacy that continues to inspire young minds towards scientific and technological advancements.
July 27, 2024, is the ninth death anniversary of a renowned aerospace scientist, the 11th President of India, and a man with an undying passion for science and technology who was lovingly called ‘Missile Man of India’: Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. Inspiration earned by him towards scientific works continues to help many young minds in their pursuit of building a career in Science and Technology. The day shall always be remembered in his memory as that of a visionary leader and a true patriot.
A Day of Reflection and Tribute
The ninth death anniversary of Dr. Kalam is not just an anniversary; it represents a celebration of his immense contributions to the space and missile programs in India. July 27, 2015, the day Dr. Abdul Kalam succumbed to a sudden heart attack while delivering his speech at the Indian Institute of Management Shillong, shocked the country. Today we remember and pay tribute to him for what he represented in his life: sincerity, hard work, and an endless quest for knowledge.
Early Life and Educational Journey
Dr. Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam was born on October 15, 1931, in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, into a humble house as the youngest of five brothers and sisters. Despite poverty, young Kalam showed remarkable persistence in his studies, working as a newspaper distributor to support his family. His interests in space and aviation made him study physics at St. Joseph’s College and later aeronautical engineering at the Madras Institute of Technology.
A Stellar Career in Aerospace and Defense
The work Dr. Kalam did speaks volumes about his inquiring spirit and commitment to national progress. He joined the Indian Space Research Organisation, and he was the chief person behind the development of the country’s first satellite launch vehicle, SLV-III. He worked with the DRDO to develop missiles and got the sobriquet of ‘Missile Man of India’; inter alia, his huge contributions included the Agni and Prithvi missiles. These developments not only strengthened India’s defense but also established the country as a strong contender in global aerospace technology.
Presidency and Youth Engagement
In 2002, Dr. Kalam was elected the 11th President of India, but he continued inspiring and engaging with youth. His tenure was marked with great rapport between students, young professionals, and him. He envisioned these young Indians as torchbearers of India’s future. Of course, his warm demeanor and scintillating speeches, which breathed fire into the hearts of listeners to reach greatness, earned him the sobriquet ‘People’s President.’ He championed the cause of education, scientific innovation, and rural development, advocating for his vision of India 2020—a blueprint for transforming India into a developed nation.
Quotes to Live By
The words of Dr. Kalam keep echoing and inspiring. Here are his most powerful quotes:
- “Dream, dream, dream. Dreams transform into thoughts and thoughts result in action.”
- “You have to dream before your dreams can come true.”
- “If you want to shine like a sun, first burn like a sun.”
- “Don’t rest after your first victory because if you fail in second, more lips are waiting to say that your first victory was just luck.”
- “Man needs his difficulties because they are necessary to enjoy success.”
The Legacy Lives On: Inspiration and Devotion
Dr. Kalam’s life story is one of hope—it speaks to the fact that everybody can make it big, provided one works hard, makes sacrifices, and maintains a passion for learning. His journey from this small town in Tamil Nadu to the country’s highest office truly epitomizes the Indian dream. What he achieved in science and technology left an indelible mark on the nation, and now, finally, his commitment to education and youth empowerment still serves to inspire future generations.
Ninth Anniversary of His Death: His Vision Must March on
Today is his ninth death anniversary, and his ideology and principles must be remembered and practiced by all with a sense of commitment. It is a day to re-dedicate ourselves to the ideals for which Dr. Kalam stood, those very tenets of integrity, hard work, and dedication to the service of the nation. And in doing this, what we really do is pay tributes to the legend called Dr. Kalam and see his vision of a prosperous and scientifically developed India realized at any cost.
The memories of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam remind us of the power of dreams, the resilient power within, and what an individual can do for an entire nation. Now, this very legacy survives in the million hearts, inspiring one and all to reach out to the stars and work incessantly for the betterment of our country.
