A.P.J. Abdul Kalam
Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam, affectionately known as the 'Missile Man of India,' was a renowned aerospace scientist who rose to become the 11th President of India. A graduate of the Madras Institute of Technology, he spent four decades as a scientist and science administrator, primarily at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). His pivotal role in the development of India's civilian space program and military missile capabilities solidified his legacy as a national hero. Kalam led the development of India's first indigenous Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV-III), which successfully launched the Rohini satellite into orbit in 1980. He was the chief architect of the Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP), which developed the Agni and Prithvi missiles, essential for India's defense. He also played a key organizational and technical role in the Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998, which established India as a nuclear power. Beyond his scientific achievements, Kalam was known as the 'People's President' for his humility, accessibility, and deep commitment to inspiring the youth with his vision of a developed India.