APJ Abdul Kalam: “Missile Man of India” and Why He is My Inspirational Leader

A.P.J. Abdul Kalam: The missile man of India. Inspirational leader. The Visionary Who Taught a Nation to Dream

APJ Abdul Kalam, also known as the "Missile Man of India," was a renowned Indian scientist and the 11th President of India from 2002 to 2007. He remains an inspirational figure for many, including myself, due to his remarkable contributions to science, his humility, and his vision for India's future.

APJ Abdul Kalam's life is a shining example of how dreams, backed by perseverance and integrity, can transform into reality. He once said, "You have to dream before your dreams can come true." His legacy continues to ignite the spark of ambition and service in the hearts of many, proving that with hard work and humility, we can achieve greatness and make a difference in the world.

A.P.J. Abdul Kalam: The missile man of India. Inspirational leader. The Visionary Who Taught a Nation to Dream
A.P.J. Abdul Kalam: The missile man of India. Inspirational leader. The Visionary Who Taught a Nation to Dream. Image: The New York Times

Inspiration from APJ Abdul Kalam, The missile man of India

APJ Abdul Kalam affectionately referred to as the "Missile Man of India," has made a lasting impression on millions of people with his incredible rise from humble beginnings to become a world-renowned scientist and the President of India. His life serves as an example of the value of having lofty goals and working relentlessly to realize them.

Kalam's dedication to developing technology and enhancing national security was evident in his contributions to India's space and missile projects. But what really made him stand out were his humility, his unwavering commitment to education, and his interpersonal skills, particularly with young people. Inspiring words that capture his vision of an advanced India: "Dream, dream, dream." "Thoughts become dreams, and thoughts become actions," never stops inspiring countless people, motivating them to pursue excellence and contribute to the nation's progress.

His Terms as India's President (11th President of India)

Missile man talking.
APJ Abdul Kalam

From 2002 until 2007, APJ Abdul Kalam led India as its eleventh president and his term is regarded as one of the most influential and inspirational in the country's history. Often referred to as the "People's President," Kalam's administration was distinguished by his capacity to engage with people from all spheres of society, particularly the younger generation, whom he fervently inspired to pursue their dreams and contribute to the advancement of the country.

Throughout his presidency, Kalam concentrated on realizing his goal of making India a developed nation by the year 2020, as he outlined in his book "India 2020: A Vision for the New Millennium." He underlined that the three main foundations for accomplishing this goal are rural development, education, and technology. During his administration, a number of programs were implemented with the goal of advancing scientific research and innovation. One such program was PURA (Providing Urban Amenities to Rural Areas), which attempted to reduce the gap between urban and rural areas and raise living conditions in rural India.

Kalam's dedication to moral leadership and openness was another quality of his style. His frequent talks on the need for honesty and responsibility in public service motivated many people to pursue morality. His unselfish devotion to serving the nation and his modest lifestyle, even as the nation's highest office holder, struck a profound chord with the Indian people.

In conclusion, APJ Abdul Kalam's time as President of India was marked by inspirational direction and visionary leadership. His unwavering attention to ethical government, technology, and education, together with his talent for connecting with people and inspiring them, have produced a lasting legacy that inspires and uplifts the country.