A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
| Personal Details | |
|---|---|
| Born | 15 October 1931 Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, India |
| Died | 27 July 2015 (aged 83) Shillong, Meghalaya, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Career & Education | |
| Education | St. Joseph's College, Tiruchirappalli; Madras Institute of Technology |
| Recognition & Links | |
| Awards | Bharat Ratna (1997), Padma Vibhushan (1990), Padma Bhushan (1981) |
Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam (15 October 1931 – 27 July 2015) was an Indian aerospace scientist and statesman who served as the 11th President of India from 2002 to 2007. He was widely referred to as the "People's President" and the "Missile Man of India."
Early Life & Scientific Career
Kalam studied physics and aerospace engineering. He spent four decades as a scientist and science administrator, mainly at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
He played a pivotal organizational, technical, and political role in India's Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998.
Presidency
Kalam was elected as the 11th President of India in 2002 with the support of both the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party and the opposition Indian National Congress.
Legacy & Writings
Kalam authored several influential books, including Wings of Fire, Ignited Minds, and India 2020. He was awarded India's highest civilian honor, the Bharat Ratna, in 1997.