Every year, October 15 is celebrated as World Students’ Day to honor the birth anniversary of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. This day is a special effort to recognize his contribution to education and his role as a role model for young people. World Students’ Day encourages students worldwide to dream big and work hard to achieve their goals.
The 2024 birth anniversary of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, celebrated on October 15, honors the life of India’s “Missile Man.” Known for his work in science and as a former President, Dr. Kalam inspired millions with his dedication to education, technology, and serving the nation. His legacy continues to motivate young minds across India.
Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam, known as Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, was a famous Indian scientist and leader. Born on October 15, 1931, in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, he served as the 11th President of India from 2002 to 2007. He was well known for his work in developing India’s missile technology, earning him the nickname “Missile Man of India.” Dr. Kalam also played an important role in India’s nuclear tests in 1998. He passed away on July 27, 2015, while giving a lecture at the age of 83.
Dr. Kalam was born into a poor Tamil Muslim family in Rameswaram. His father, Jainulabdeen Marakayar, was a boat owner, and his mother, Ashiamma, was a homemaker. As a young boy, he had to sell newspapers to help support his family. Even though he was not the top student in his class, he was very hardworking and curious about learning, especially in subjects like mathematics.
After finishing his schooling, he attended St. Joseph’s College in Tiruchirappalli, where he studied physics. He then moved to the Madras Institute of Technology to study aerospace engineering.
After completing his studies in 1960, Dr. Kalam joined the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) as a scientist. He began his career by working on small projects like designing a hovercraft. Later, he moved to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), where he became the project director for India’s first Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV-III). In 1980, the rocket successfully put the Rohini satellite into space.
Dr. Kalam was also involved in developing missiles such as Agni and Prithvi, which led to his title as the “Missile Man of India.” He played a key role in the Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998, which helped India become a nuclear power.
The United Nations chose October 15 as World Students’ Day to remember Dr. Kalam’s dedication to students’ education and growth. Known as the “Missile Man of India,” Dr. Kalam strongly believed that education is the best way to bring personal and social change. He inspired students to always aim high and keep working until their dreams come true.
Here is the list of awards and honors received by Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam:
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