ABDUL KALAM BIOGRAPHY
- Introduction
Abdul Kalam, also known as the “People’s President,” was one of India’s most beloved and respected leaders. He was a scientist, author, and politician, who served as India’s 11th President from 2002 to 2007. Born on 15 October 1931 in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, Abdul Kalam was a bright student who went on to become a renowned scientist and an inspirational leader.
- Early Life and Education
Abdul Kalam was born in a Tamil Muslim family in Rameswaram, a small town in Tamil Nadu. His father Jainulabdeen was a boat owner and imam at a local mosque, and his mother Ashiamma was a housewife. Kalam was the youngest sibling of four.
Despite his family’s financial constraints, Kalam was a brilliant student who had a keen interest in science and mathematics from a young age. He studied at the Schwartz Higher Secondary School in Ramanathapuram and then went on to study physics at St. Joseph’s College, Tiruchirappalli. After completing his graduation, he moved to Madras to study aerospace engineering at the Madras Institute of Technology.
- Career in Science
After completing his education, Abdul Kalam joined the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) as a scientist. He worked on several projects related to missile technology and played a key role in the development of India’s first satellite launch vehicle, SLV-3. In 1983, he became the director of the DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Establishment.
In the 1990s, Kalam played a pivotal role in the development of India’s missile program, including the Agni and Prithvi missiles. Abdul kalam also occupied the position of chief scientific adviser to prime minister and the Secretary of the Defence Research and Development Organisation from 1992 to 1999.
Throughout his career, Kalam received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to science and technology. In 1997, he was awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, for his services to the nation.
- Political Career
In 2002, Abdul Kalam was elected as India’s 11th President, succeeding K. R. Narayanan. He was the first scientist and the first Muslim to hold the office of the President. During his tenure as President, Kalam focused on promoting education, especially among rural youth. He also championed several initiatives related to science and technology, including the PURA (Providing Urban Amenities to Rural Areas) scheme, which aimed to provide basic amenities to rural areas.
Kalam was known for his humble nature and his ability to connect with people from all walks of life. He was affectionately called the “People’s President” because of his popularity among the masses. In addition, he was a prolific writer who produced a number of books, including the autobiographical Wings of Fire that detailed his life and work.
- Death and Legacy
Abdul Kalam passed away on 27 July 2015 while delivering a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management, Shillong. He died at the age of 83 years. His death was mourned by people across India, who remembered him as a visionary leader and an inspirational figure.
Abdul Kalam’s legacy lives on through his contributions to science and technology, as well as his commitment to education and rural development. He was a true patriot who dedicated his life to the service of his country and its people.
- Abdul Kalam And India’s First Nuclear Weapon Test
Abdul Kalam played a significant role in India’s nuclear weapons program, including the country’s first nuclear weapon test.
In the 1970s, India’s nuclear program was in its nascent stage, and Abdul Kalam was serving as the director of the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) Satellite Launch Vehicle program. In 1982, he was appointed as the Chief Executive of the Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP), which aimed to develop indigenous missile technology.
Kalam worked closely with R. Chidambaram, the then-chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC), to develop India’s nuclear weapons program. They collaborated on the design and development of the first nuclear device, which was code-named “Smiling Buddha.”
On May 18, 1974, India conducted its first nuclear weapon test at the Pokhran Test Range in Rajasthan. The test was a success, and India became the sixth country in the world to possess nuclear weapons.
Abdul Kalam’s role in the development of India’s nuclear program and the successful test of the nuclear weapon cannot be overstated. He was instrumental in designing the missile technology that would deliver the nuclear warhead to its target.
However, Kalam also believed in the peaceful use of nuclear energy and advocated for the development of nuclear technology for civilian purposes. He played a crucial role in the development of India’s nuclear power program, which has since become an important source of energy for the country.
In conclusion, Abdul Kalam’s contribution to India’s nuclear program and the successful test of the country’s first nuclear weapon is a significant chapter in India’s history. He believed that science and technology could be harnessed for the benefit of humanity and was committed to ensuring that India became a global leader in the field of science and technology.
- Conclusion
Abdul Kalam’s life and career are a testament to the power of hard work, perseverance, and dedication. He overcame numerous challenges and obstacles to become one of India’s most respected leaders. His humility, compassion, and wisdom
