Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Biography: Know About His Life, Career, Achievement & Awards

Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, born on October 15, 1931, in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, was one of India’s most beloved scientists and leaders. Known as the “Missile Man of India,” he played a key role in India’s space and missile programs and later served as the 11th President of India (2002–2007). His life remains an inspiring example of hard work, humility, and service to the nation.

Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam: Key Details

Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam: Early Life and Education

APJ Abdul Kalam also known as People’s President was born on 15th October 1931 in a Tamil Muslim family in Rameswaram on Pamban Island, then in the Presidency of Madras and now in Tamil Nadu. His father Jainuladbeen Marakayar was a boat owner and imam of a local mosque and his mother was a housewife. Abdul Kalam was the youngest of four brothers and one sister in his family. Abdul Kalam has been an average student in his school years but was considered hardworking and consistent. He completed his schooling at Schwartz Higher Secondary School, he went to Saint Joseph’s College in Tiruchirapalli. He graduated in physics in 1954. In 1955, he moved to Madras to study further Aerospace Engineering at the Madras Institute of Technology.

Scientific Career and Achievements of APJ Abdul Kalam

After completing his studies, Kalam joined the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), where he worked on a hovercraft design project. In 1969, he moved to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) as Project Director of the Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV-III). Under his leadership, India successfully launched the Rohini satellite into orbit in 1980, marking a milestone in India’s space program.

Later, he headed the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP), leading to the creation of Agni and Prithvi missiles — powerful symbols of India’s defence capability. These achievements earned him the title “Missile Man of India.”

Role in India’s Nuclear Program

Between 1992 and 1999, Kalam served as the Chief Scientific Adviser to the Defence Minister. He played a crucial role in the Pokhran-II nuclear tests of 1998, which established India as a nuclear power. His leadership and vision strengthened India’s defence and technological self-reliance.

Presidency of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam

In 2002, Dr. Kalam became the 11th President of India with support from both major political parties — the BJP and Congress. As President, he was loved by people across all ages, especially the youth, who fondly called him “People’s President.”

He launched several initiatives for national growth, including Vision 2020, a roadmap for transforming India into a developed nation through science, technology, and education.

Later Life and Legacy

After completing his term as President in 2007, Kalam continued his passion for teaching and inspiring students. He visited schools and universities across India, motivating young minds to dream big and serve the nation.

Dr. Kalam passed away on July 27, 2015, while delivering a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management, Shillong. His death was mourned nationwide, and he was given a state funeral with full honors.

Dr. Books by Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam

APJ Abdul Kalam has written several books and it has been praised all over the world. He had the vision of seeing India at the top of the world and he has described his vision in all his written works. Here are some of the most remarkable books by APJ Abdul Kalam.

• India 2020: A vision for the new millennium
• Wings of Fire: An Autobiography
• Guided Souls: Dialogues on the Purpose of Life
• Mission of India: A Vision of Indian Youth
• Failure to Success: Legendary Lives
• Spirit of India
• My Journey: Transforming Dreams into Actions
• Beyond 2020: A Vision for Tomorrow’s India
• The Luminous Sparks: A Biography in Verse and Colours
• Ignited Minds: Unleashing the Power within India
• Governance for Growth in India
• Forge Your Future: Candid, Forthright, Inspiring
• Transcendence My Spiritual Experience

Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam: Awards and Achievements

• APJ Abdul Kalam has received 7 honorary doctorates from 40 Universities.
• The Government of India has honored him with Padma Bhushan in 1981 and Padma Vibhushan in 1990 for his contribution and work with ISRO and DRDO.
• In 1997, Kalam was honored with the Bharat Ratna Award for his contribution to scientific research and the modernization of defense technology.
• In 2013, he received the Von Braun Award from the National Space Society.
• In 1997 he was also presented with the Indira Gandhi Award for National Integration from the Indian National Congress.
• In 2007, he received the King Charles II Medal from the Royal society.

Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam: Quotes

Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam has inspired millions of people with his wise words. He is an idol for millions of Indians as well as for the world. Here are some of the Quotes by Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam.

• “If you fail, never give up because FAIL means ‘First Attempt in Learning.”
• “Failure will never overtake me if my determination to succeed is strong enough.”
• “Dream is not that which you see while sleeping, it is something that does not let you sleep.”
• “All birds find shelter during a rain, but an eagle avoids rains by flying above the clouds.”
• “Dream, dream, dream, dreams transform into thoughts, and thoughts result in actions.”