A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
Missile Man of India: The Remarkable Journey and Achievements
Here's a time line of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam's life:
- 1931 - A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was born on October 15, 1931, in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, India.
- 1958 - Kalam earned a degree in aeronautical engineering from the Madras Institute of Technology and joined the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
- 1969 - He moved to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and became the project director of the SLV-III, India's first satellite launch vehicle.
- 1982 - Kalam rejoined DRDO and planned a successful missile program, earning him the nickname "Missile Man."
- 1989 - India launched Agni, its first intermediate-range ballistic missile, which incorporated aspects of the SLV-III.
- 1992 - Becomes the Director of the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO).
- 1998 - Kalam played a pivotal role in India's Pokhran-II nuclear tests, solidifying India as a nuclear power. He proposed the Technology Vision 2020, a plan to transform India into a developed society in 20 years.
- 2002 - Elected as the 11th President of India, becoming the first scientist to hold the office.
- 2003 - Launches the "PURA" (Providing Urban Amenities in Rural Areas) initiative to uplift rural India through technology and development.
- 2011 - Publishes his autobiography, "Wings of Fire," which becomes a bestseller and inspires countless young Indians.
- 2013 - He received the Von Braun Award from the National Space Society.
- 2015 - On July 27, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam passes away while delivering a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management Shillong, leaving behind a legacy of scientific achievement, leadership, and inspirational work.
"If four things are followed - having a great aim, acquiring knowledge, hard work, and perseverance - then anything can be achieved."
- APJ Abdul Kalam