DR.A.P J ABDUL KALAM’S DEATH ANNIVERSRY-JULY 27

 

DR.A.P J ABDUL KALAM’S DEATH ANNIVERSRY-JULY 27

Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam's death anniversary is observed every year on 27 July to honor the life, vision, and extraordinary contributions of India's 11th President, renowned aerospace scientist, and beloved teacher. Fondly known as the "People's President" and the "Missile Man of India," Dr. Kalam dedicated his life to advancing India's scientific and technological capabilities while inspiring millions of young people to dream big and work hard.

On 27 July 2015, Dr. Kalam passed away while delivering a lecture to students at the Indian Institute of Management Shillong. His passing reflected his lifelong commitment to education and youth empowerment, as he remained engaged in teaching and motivating students until his final moments.Dr. Kalam played a pivotal role in India's space and missile development programs through his work with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). He was also a key figure in India's 1998 Pokhran-II nuclear tests and authored inspiring books such as Wings of Fire and Ignited Minds. His death anniversary is marked across India with memorial meetings, educational programs, lectures, essay competitions, and tributes in schools, colleges, and research institutions. It serves as an opportunity to remember his ideals of integrity, humility, innovation, and nation-building.

Dr Kalam is remembered as one of the greatest teachers ever. Yesterday in his Mann Ki Baat programme, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also fondly remembered him and said that the former President inspired children and the youth to dream.Born on 15th October 1931 at Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu, Dr. Kalam specialized in Aeronautical Engineering from Madras Institute of Technology. He made significant contribution as Project Director to develop India’s first indigenous Satellite Launch Vehicle which successfully injected the Rohini satellite in the near earth orbit in July 1980 and made India an exclusive member of Space Club. The former President was also responsible for the development and operationalisation of AGNI and PRITHVI Missiles and for building indigenous capability in critical technologies through networking of multiple institutions.Dr. Kalam was one of the most distinguished scientists of the country  with the unique honour of receiving honorary doctorates from 30 universities and institutions. He has been awarded the coveted civilian awards – Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan and the highest civilian award Bharat Ratna.  Dr. Kalam became the 11th President of India on 25th July 2002. Dr. Kalam’s journey from a small-town boy to the President of India will always be inspiring and motivational, especially for the youth and this day serves as a reminder of his values, achievements, and lasting legacy.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla paid tributes to the former President and Bharat Ratna Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam on his death anniversary today. In a social media post, Mr Birla said that Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was a visionary dreamer for a developed, self-reliant, and strong India. He said that the contribution of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam in taking indigenous missile and space programmes to new heights is etched in golden letters in the history of Indian science.The Lok Sabha Speaker added that Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam made knowledge, discipline, simplicity, and national service the foundation of his life. He also said that Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam awakened confidence, innovation, and the spirit of nation-building in millions of youth across the country. He further emphasised that the thoughts of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam continue to inspire youth to remain dedicated to their goals.

Prof. John Kurakar