Biography: Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam | WBBSE Class 9 English

Dr. Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam was one of the most illustrious scientists, visionaries, and charismatic statesmen modern India has ever produced. Born into a modest Tamil Muslim family on the 15th of October, 1931, in the pilgrimage town of Rameswaram, young Kalam overcame severe economic hardship through sheer grit and dedication, even distributing newspapers to support his family's livelihood. After completing his schooling, he graduated in physics from St. Joseph’s College, Tiruchirappalli, and subsequently earned a degree in Aeronautical Engineering from the Madras Institute of Technology (MIT).

Dr. Kalam embarked upon his professional journey as a scientist at DRDO and subsequently joined ISRO. Under his visionary stewardship as Project Director, India successfully launched its indigenous satellite launch vehicle, SLV-III, placing the Rohini satellite in near-Earth orbit. He spearheaded the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP), brilliantly developing formidable missiles like Agni and Prithvi, which earned him the revered sobriquet "The Missile Man of India." He also played a pivotal technological leadership role during the Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998.

In 2002, Dr. Kalam was elected as the 11th President of India. Renowned for his unassuming simplicity, accessibility, and passionate love for students, he was affectionately hailed as the "People’s President." He was decorated with India’s highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna, in 1997. His inspirational books, especially Wings of Fire and Ignited Minds, continue to motivate millions of young Indians. On 27th July 2015, while delivering a lecture to students at IIM Shillong, he suffered a sudden cardiac arrest and passed away peacefully doing what he loved most—educating the youth. His luminous life remains an eternal beacon of self-reliance, scientific curiosity, and selfless patriotism.