APJ Abdul Kalam's legacy lives on in India's missiles, space programme
This article reflects on the legacy of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, highlighting his pivotal role in India's missile and space programs. It details his career trajectory from DRDO to ISRO and his leadership in developing indigenous defense capabilities.
Why it matters
Kalam's contributions remain foundational to India's strategic autonomy and its current status as a space-faring nation.
As India marks the death anniversary of former President Dr Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam, his contributions to expanding defence and space sectors remain central to his role in nation building. The scientist-statesman, born on October 15, 1931 in Tamil Nadu, Dr Abdul Kalam is remembered for running the country's missile programme. His role remains a defining chapter in the nation’s quest for strategic autonomy. TheDr Kalam joined the Defence Research and Development Organisation's (DRDO) aeronautical development establishment soon after graduating from the Madras Institute of Technology in 1960. The former President initiated expandable rocket work at DRDO in 1965 and visited NASA facilities in 1963–64. He then moved to the Indian National Committee for Space Research and worked under Vikram Sarabhai.
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