Every year on October 15, India pays tribute to Dr. Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam, fondly remembered as the ‘Missile Man of India’ and the ‘People’s President’. Born in 1931 in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, Dr. Kalam’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming India’s 11th President (2002–2007) embodies the power of education, determination, and vision. His birth anniversary celebrates his enduring contributions to science, technology, and youth empowerment, encouraging students to dream and achieve with integrity and compassion.
Why Dr. Kalam’s Birth Anniversary is Celebrated
- Date: October 15, 1931
- Place: Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu
- Significance: Honoring Dr. Kalam’s lifelong commitment to education, innovation, and inspiring young minds.
- While popularly known as World Students’ Day, the United Nations actually observes October 15 as the International Day of Rural Women. However, in India, this day symbolizes Kalam’s deep connection with students and education.
Dr. Kalam’s Early Life and Education
- Humble Beginnings: Born into a modest family — his father was a boat owner and imam, and his mother a homemaker.
Education Path
- Attended Schwartz Higher Secondary School, Ramanathapuram
- Graduated in Physics from St. Joseph’s College, Tiruchirappalli (1954)
- Studied Aeronautical Engineering at the Madras Institute of Technology (MIT)
Scientific Contributions and Achievements
1. Space and Defence Innovations
- Joined DRDO in 1960, later moved to ISRO, where he directed the SLV-III project, successfully launching Rohini Satellite in 1980.
- Returned to DRDO to lead India’s Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP).
- Played a pivotal role in developing indigenous missiles — Agni and Prithvi, earning him the title ‘Missile Man of India’.
2. Role in Pokhran-II Nuclear Tests
- A key scientific and organizational leader in India’s 1998 Pokhran-II nuclear tests, marking India’s emergence as a nuclear power.
3. Awards and Honours
- Padma Bhushan (1981)
- Padma Vibhushan (1990)
- Bharat Ratna (1997) — India’s highest civilian award
- Honorary doctorates from over 30 universities worldwide
Dr. Kalam as the President of India (2002–2007)
- Known as the ‘People’s President’ for his humility, simplicity, and accessibility.
- Encouraged direct engagement with students and youth across the nation.
- Promoted India 2020: Vision for a Developed Nation, focusing on education, technology, and self-reliance.
Enduring Legacy
- Even after leaving the presidency, Dr. Kalam continued teaching and mentoring students.
- His final moments, on July 27, 2015, at IIM Shillong, while delivering a lecture, reflected his lifelong mission — to inspire young minds.
- His books, especially “Wings of Fire” and “Ignited Minds”, continue to motivate millions.