Nation Remembers ‘Missile Man’ APJ Abdul Kalam on Birth Anniversary; Amit Shah, Jaishankar Pay Tributes

New Delhi, Oct 15: India on Thursday remembered former President and Bharat Ratna awardee Dr APJ Abdul Kalam on his birth anniversary, with Union ministers and chief ministers paying tribute to the legendary scientist whose contributions to defence technology, space research and education left a lasting imprint on the nation.

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Union Home Minister Amit Shah, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy and several chief ministers highlighted Kalam’s scientific achievements, democratic values and enduring commitment to inspiring young Indians.

Widely known as the ‘Missile Man of India’ and the ‘People’s President’, Kalam continues to be remembered for his vision of a scientifically advanced, self-reliant and developed India.

Amit Shah Recalls Kalam’s Contribution to National Security

Paying tribute on social media platform X, Home Minister Amit Shah described Kalam as an exceptional scientist who dedicated his abilities to strengthening India’s strategic capabilities.

“Tributes to the People’s President, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Ji, on his Jayanti,” Shah wrote, adding that Kalam’s life would continue to inspire younger generations to devote themselves to serving the nation.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also honoured the former President, praising his vision, commitment and dedication to the country.

“Pay my tribute to Bharat Ratna Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam on his birth anniversary today. His vision, commitment & dedication for the nation continue to inspire,” Jaishankar said.

Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy remembered Kalam as a pioneering scientist and visionary leader who devoted his life to advancing India’s scientific capabilities and nurturing the aspirations of young people.

He emphasised Kalam’s belief in the transformative power of knowledge, innovation and education, describing his legacy as a continuing source of inspiration for generations.

Chief Ministers Honour the Missile Man

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath paid homage to Kalam, highlighting his contribution to India’s strategic strength and defence preparedness.

In his message in Hindi, Adityanath described the former President as a visionary who helped elevate the country’s strategic capabilities and whose exemplary life would continue to inspire citizens.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also paid tribute to Kalam, linking his legacy to the importance of reading and lifelong learning.

Maharashtra observes Kalam’s birth anniversary as Vachan Prerna Divas, an initiative aimed at encouraging reading habits and promoting the pursuit of knowledge.

From Rameswaram to Rashtrapati Bhavan

Born on October 15, 1931, in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam rose from a modest background to become one of India’s most admired scientists and public figures.

He served as India’s 11th President from 2002 to 2007 and earned widespread affection for his simplicity, humility and close engagement with students.

Kalam began his professional journey at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in 1960 before joining the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in 1969.

At ISRO, he led the Satellite Launch Vehicle-III project, which successfully placed the Rohini satellite into near-Earth orbit in 1980, marking a significant milestone in India’s indigenous space programme.

He later played a leading role in the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme, which advanced the development of indigenous missile systems, including Agni and Prithvi. These contributions earned him the enduring title ‘Missile Man of India’.

Kalam also served as a key scientific adviser during the 1998 Pokhran-II nuclear tests, a landmark moment in India’s strategic and defence history.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions, he received the Padma Bhushan in 1981, the Padma Vibhushan in 1990 and the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, in 1997.

A Lasting Message for Students and Young India

Beyond laboratories, missile programmes and the presidency, Kalam’s greatest legacy arguably lies in his unwavering belief in the potential of young people.

He consistently encouraged students to dream ambitiously, develop scientific thinking, pursue knowledge and use their abilities to address national challenges.

His birth anniversary is widely associated with World Students’ Day, reflecting his enduring connection with education and youth empowerment. The observance celebrates the values he championed throughout his life: curiosity, discipline, innovation and the courage to pursue ambitious goals.

Years after his death in 2015, Kalam remains a powerful symbol of how scientific excellence, humility and public service can come together to shape a nation’s future.

As leaders across the country paid tribute to him, the central message of his life remained relevant: building a stronger India begins with empowering its people, especially its young minds, through education, innovation and a shared commitment to national progress.