Remembering Dr APJ Abdul Kalam on World Students' Day

Early Life and Education

India observes World Students' Day on October 15, marking the birth anniversary of former President, scientist, and engineer Dr APJ Abdul Kalam. Born on October 15, 1931, in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam grew up in a middle-class family with modest means. As a young boy, he helped his cousin distribute newspapers to earn his first wages. He completed his schooling in Rameswaram before graduating in physics from St Joseph's College in Tiruchirappalli in 1954 and studying aeronautical engineering at the Madras Institute of Technology, graduating in 1957.

Scientific Career

Kalam joined the Defence Research and Development Organisation in 1960 and later moved to the Indian Space Research Organisation in 1969. At ISRO, he served as project director of the Satellite Launch Vehicle-III, India's first indigenous satellite launch vehicle, which successfully placed the Rohini satellite in near-Earth orbit in July 1980. Returning to DRDO, he led the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme, advancing indigenous missile capabilities like the Agni and Prithvi systems, which earned him the title "Missile Man of India". He also served as Scientific Adviser to the Defence Minister and Secretary of DRDO from July 1992 to December 1999, playing a key role in the May 1998 Pokhran-II nuclear tests.

Presidency and Legacy

In 2002, Kalam became the 11th President of India, serving from July 25, 2002, to July 25, 2007, and earning the title "People's President" through his humble demeanour and frequent interactions with students. He received honorary doctorates from 30 universities and institutions, along with the Padma Bhushan in 1981, the Padma Vibhushan in 1990, and the Bharat Ratna in 1997. He authored several books, including Wings of Fire, India 2020: A Vision for the New Millennium, My Journey, and Ignited Minds. At age 83, he passed away on July 27, 2015, after collapsing while delivering a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management Shillong.

Context

World Students' Day is widely observed across India in honour of Dr Kalam's lifelong dedication to teaching and youth empowerment, though it is not an officially designated United Nations international day. His career bridges India's early steps in space and defence technology with public leadership, leaving a cultural imprint on generations of young students.