Introduction – Who Was Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam?
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was one of India’s greatest scientists, leaders, and visionaries. He served as the 11th President of India and was lovingly known as the "Missile Man of India". But more than that, he was a teacher, a thinker, and an inspiration for millions of students.
Born in a small town, rising through hard work and dreams, and becoming a beloved President—his life story teaches students the power of dreams, discipline, and dedication.
Childhood and Early Life
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Full Name: Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam
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Born: 15 October 1931, Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu
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Family: Came from a poor Muslim family. His father was a boat owner.
As a child, Kalam was:
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Hardworking and curious
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Honest and disciplined
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A newspaper boy to support his family
His early life taught him simplicity, humility, and a love for learning.
School and Higher Education
Kalam was an average student in academics but had a strong desire to learn. He loved mathematics and science.
Schooling:
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Studied in Schwartz Higher Secondary School in Ramanathapuram
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Influenced by a teacher, Iyadurai Solomon, who encouraged him to think big
College:
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Studied physics at St. Joseph’s College, Tiruchirappalli
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Later joined Madras Institute of Technology (MIT) to study aerospace engineering
MIT shaped his dream of becoming a scientist and working with aircraft.
Beginning of Scientific Career
After completing his studies, Kalam joined Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in 1958.
Later, he joined ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) in 1969 and became the Project Director of SLV-III, India’s first satellite launch vehicle.
Achievement:
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In 1980, he helped launch Rohini satellite into orbit—India's first successful satellite launch.
This was a historic moment in India’s space journey.
Becoming the "Missile Man of India"
Kalam returned to DRDO and led several key missile projects like:
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Agni (Intermediate-range ballistic missile)
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Prithvi (Short-range missile)
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Trishul, Akash, and Nag
These missiles strengthened India's defense system and made India self-reliant in missile technology.
He earned the title “Missile Man of India” for his contribution to India’s defense capabilities.
Pokhran Nuclear Tests (1998)
Dr. Kalam played a crucial role in India’s second nuclear tests at Pokhran in 1998.
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He was the Chief Scientific Advisor to the Prime Minister
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The tests made India a nuclear power nation
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He became a national hero overnight
These efforts showed the world India’s scientific strength.
The People's President (2002–2007)
In 2002, Dr. Kalam became the 11th President of India.
Highlights:
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Known as the “People’s President”
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Focused on youth, education, and technology
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Refused to sign the Office of Profit Bill showing his strong ethics
Even in the President’s role, he stayed humble, simple, and close to students. He visited schools and colleges, inspiring young minds wherever he went.
Life After Presidency – Teacher and Author
After his presidency, Dr. Kalam dedicated his life to:
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Teaching at IISc, IITs, and other institutes
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Writing motivational books like:
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Wings of Fire (his autobiography)
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Ignited Minds
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India 2020
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My Journey
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You Are Born to Blossom
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His books focused on nation-building, youth empowerment, and scientific thinking.
His Love for Students
Dr. Kalam believed that students are the future of India.
"Dream, dream, dream. Dreams transform into thoughts and thoughts result in action."
He spent more time with students than politicians. He replied to letters, answered emails, and personally met thousands of young learners across the country.
He believed:
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Every student has potential
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Education must build character
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Students must dream of a developed India
Dr. Kalam’s Thoughts and Vision
Key thoughts he shared with students:
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Dream big and work hard
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Value time and use it wisely
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Be honest and courageous
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Respect teachers and parents
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Believe in yourself and your country
His vision:
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India becoming a developed nation by 2020
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Technology and youth being key to nation-building
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Education that focuses on knowledge, creativity, and values
Simplicity and Personal Life
Dr. Kalam lived a simple and disciplined life:
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He never married
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Had no personal wealth
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Donated all his earnings to charities and scholarships
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Owned only a few possessions
Even as a President, he lived modestly and focused on serving the people, not enjoying power.
He remains an example of simple living and high thinking.
His Death – A True Teacher Till the End
On 27 July 2015, while delivering a lecture at IIM Shillong, Dr. Kalam collapsed and passed away.
His last moments:
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Teaching students
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Sharing knowledge
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Doing what he loved the most
His death shocked the nation. But it was also a symbol of his dedication to education and youth till his final breath.
National and International Honors
Dr. Kalam received many awards, including:
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Padma Bhushan (1981)
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Padma Vibhushan (1990)
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Bharat Ratna (1997) – India’s highest civilian award
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Honorary doctorates from over 40 universities
He is also remembered globally as a peace promoter, teacher, and visionary.
What Students Can Learn from His Life
Key Lessons:
| Lesson No. | Message |
|---|---|
| 1 | Dream big, regardless of background |
| 2 | Respect teachers and parents |
| 3 | Hard work beats talent |
| 4 | Simplicity is strength |
| 5 | Read, write, and never stop learning |
| 6 | Serve your nation and society |
| 7 | Turn failures into stepping stones |
| 8 | Be honest and live with integrity |
| 9 | Focus on science, creativity, and ideas |
| 10 | Always stay humble, no matter how successful |
Conclusion – Dr. Kalam Lives On
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam may no longer be with us physically, but his spirit, values, and vision continue to inspire students across India and the world.
“Let us sacrifice our today so that our children can have a better tomorrow.”
He proved that one child with a dream and courage can change the world.
As students, if you:
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Dream like Kalam
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Work like Kalam
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Live like Kalam
…you will build a brighter future for yourself and for India.
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