Kalam’s birth anniversary: Amit Shah, EAM Jaishankar, CMs pay tribute to ‘Missile Man of India’

New Delhi, October 15 (IANS) Union ministers and chief ministers on Thursday paid tribute to former President Dr APJ Abdul Kalam on his birth anniversary, remembering his contributions to India's scientific advancement, defence capabilities and national development.They said Kalam's vision, dedication and commitment to public service would continue to motivate young people to pursue knowledge, innovation and nation-building.Union Home Minister Amit Shah remembered Kalam as the 'People's President' and highlighted his contribution to strengthening India's strategic capabilities while upholding democratic values.Amit Shah took to social media 'X' and said, "Tributes to the People’s President, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Ji, on his Jayanti. Kalam Ji dedicated his rare scientific genius to making India a significant strategic power and upheld the highest democratic values as the President of India. The Missile Man of India will remain an ideal who will continue to inspire the younger generation to put their heart and soul into serving the nation."External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar said, "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."Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy described Kalam as a distinguished scientist, visionary leader, and widely respected President who dedicated his life to strengthening India's scientific capabilities and encouraging young people to pursue their ambitions."Paying heartfelt tributes to former President and Bharat Ratna Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Ji on his Janma Jayanti. A pioneering scientist, visionary leader and revered People’s President, Dr. Kalam dedicated his life in advancing India’s scientific capabilities and nurturing the aspirations of its youth. His unwavering faith in the power of knowledge, innovation and education continues to inspire generations to dream big and contribute towards a strong, progressive and self-reliant Bharat," he said.Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath recalled Kalam's role in enhancing the country's strategic strength and defence preparedness."On the birth anniversary of Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, the visionary of 'Strong India', former President of India, 'Missile Man', 'Bharat Ratna,' a humble tribute. With your extraordinary knowledge, you bestowed new heights upon India's strategic strength and made a vital contribution to rendering the nation's defence system impregnable. Your ideal life will forever continue to inspire the people of the country," he wrote on X in Hindi.Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis honoured Kalam's legacy and highlighted the importance of reading and education in shaping young minds."Honouring the former President and ‘Missile Man of India’, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam ji, on his Birth Anniversary! Maharashtra celebrates this day as Vachan Prerna Divas to encourage the habit of reading and gaining knowledge," CM Fadnavis said.Kalam's birth anniversary is also observed as World Students' Day, celebrating his enduring association with education, learning and the aspirations of young people. The former President consistently encouraged students to develop a scientific temper, think independently and contribute to the country's progress.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 celebrated scientists and public figures. He served as the country's 11th President from 2002 to 2007 and earned widespread affection for his simple lifestyle, accessibility and engagement with students.Kalam began his career 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 (SLV-III) project, which helped establish India's capability to launch satellites using an indigenously developed launch vehicle.He subsequently played a prominent role in India's missile development efforts through the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme. The initiative contributed to the development of missile systems, including Agni and Prithvi, earning him the popular title 'Missile Man of India'.Kalam also played a key scientific and organisational role in the 1998 Pokhran-II nuclear tests while serving as scientific adviser to the Defence Minister.In recognition of his contributions, he received the Padma Bhushan in 1981, the Padma Vibhushan in 1990 and the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honour, in 1997.Beyond his scientific achievements and presidential tenure, Kalam remains remembered for his emphasis on education, innovation and empowering young Indians to help shape the country's future.