A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

A. P. J. Abdul Kalam (1931‑2015)
Early Life & Education
Born 15 October 1931 in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, into a modest family.
The Indian Express
Encyclopedia Britannica
Studied physics at St. Joseph’s College, Tiruchirappalli; then aerospace engineering at the Madras Institute of Technology.
The Indian Express
Scientific Career
Began at DRDO (Defence Research & Development Organisation), worked on early projects including a hovercraft.
Moved to ISRO (Indian Space Research Organization) in 1969, became project director of SLV‑III, which successfully launched the Rohini satellite in 1980.
Encyclopedia Britannica
Led India’s missile development program (IGMDP) resulting in missiles like Agni and Prithvi.
Encyclopedia Britannica
EDUCBA
Role in Nuclear Tests & Technology Vision
Played a prominent role in India’s Pokhran‑II nuclear tests in 1998.
Encyclopedia Britannica
Finology Blog
Articulated Technology Vision 2020, a roadmap to transform India into a developed nation.
Encyclopedia Britannica
Presidency & Later Life
Served as the 11th President of India from 2002‑2007. Known for being very popular, especially among young people — often called the “People’s President.”
Encyclopedia Britannica
After presidency, he focused on teaching, authoring books, inspiring youth. Some famous books: Wings of Fire, Ignited Minds, etc.
Encyclopedia Britannica
Death & Legacy
Died 27 July 2015 while delivering a lecture at IIM Shillong.
Encyclopedia Britannica
Honoured with many awards: Padma Bhushan (1981), Padma Vibhushan (1990), Bharat Ratna (1997).