Who is the Missile Man of India? Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, a visionary scientist and India’s 11th President, earned this title for his pivotal role in developing India’s missile and nuclear programs. Known as the first Missile Man of India, his contributions to Indian missile tests at Wheeler Island and beyond transformed India defence. This article explores why Dr Kalam is known as the Missile Man of India, his personal life, awards, and legacy for UPSC aspirants and defence enthusiasts.
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Why is Dr. Kalam Known as the Missile Man of India?
Why is Dr Kalam known as the Missile Man of India? Dr. Kalam spearheaded the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP) at DRDO, leading to the development of missiles like Agni and Prithvi. His leadership in the 1998 Pokhran-II nuclear tests solidified India’s nuclear power status. As the first Missile Man of India, his work on Indian missile tests, Wheeler Island (now Abdul Kalam Island), established India as a global leader in missile technology.
- Agni Missile: Long-range ballistic missile, tested successfully under Kalam’s guidance.
- Prithvi Missile: Surface-to-surface missile, enhancing tactical capabilities.
- SLV-III: India’s first satellite launch vehicle, directed by Kalam at ISRO.
Kalam’s vision for self-reliance in defence, as noted in his book India 2020, inspired generations.
Who is the First, Second, and Missile Man of the World?
Who is the first Missile Man of India? Dr. Kalam holds this title for his foundational contributions to India’s missile program. Who is the second Missile Man of India? While no official title exists, scientists like Dr. V.K. Saraswat, who advanced missile technology post-Kalam, are sometimes cited in discussions (). Who is the Missile Man of the world? No single global figure holds this title, as missile development is nation-specific, but Kalam’s global influence in missile technology is unmatched, earning him international accolades like the Von Braun Award.
Personal Life of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam
APJ Abdul Kalam Full Name and Family
APJ Abdul Kalam full name is Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam. Born on October 15, 1931, in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, he came from a modest Tamil Muslim family. His APJ Abdul Kalam father name was Jainulabdeen Marakayar, a boat owner and imam, and his mother, Ashiamma, was a housewife (). APJ Abdul Kalam wife? Kalam remained unmarried, dedicating his life to science and public service.
APJ Abdul Kalam Education
APJ Abdul Kalam education began at Schwartz Higher Secondary School, Ramanathapuram. He graduated in physics from St. Joseph’s College, Tiruchirappalli (1954), and studied aeronautical engineering at Madras Institute of Technology (1960), laying the foundation for his career atRos aeronautical engineering at Madras Institute of Technology (1960), laying the foundation for his career at DRDO and ISRO.
APJ Abdul Kalam Death Date and Age
APJ Abdul Kalam death date was July 27, 2015, when he collapsed during a lecture at IIM Shillong due to cardiac arrest. APJ Abdul Kalam age at death was 83. His passing was mourned nationwide, with thousands attending his funeral in Rameswaram.
APJ Abdul Kalam Awards
APJ Abdul Kalam Awards reflect his monumental contributions. Below is a list of key honors:
| Award | Year | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Padma Bhushan | 1981 | Third-highest civilian honor |
| Padma Vibhushan | 1990 | Second-highest civilian honor |
| Bharat Ratna | 1997 | India’s highest civilian honor |
| Von Braun Award | 2013 | National Space Society, USA |
| Hoover Medal | 2008 | American award for service |
Kalam also received over 40 honorary doctorates from universities worldwide.
Indian Missile Tests and Wheeler Island
Indian missile test, Wheeler Island refers to tests at Abdul Kalam Island, Odisha, renamed in 2015 to honor Kalam.
As the first director of the Integrated Test Range in 1982, Kalam oversaw the successful Prithvi missile test in 1993, achieving 27-meter accuracy.
The island remains a hub for testing missiles like Agni, BrahMos, and Astra, strengthening Indian Armed Forces capabilities.
UPSC Relevance: Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam
For UPSC (GS Paper III: Science and Technology), Kalam’s contributions are crucial. Study his role in:
- Missile Development: IGMDP, Agni, Prithvi.
- Nuclear Program: Pokhran-II tests (1998).
- Policy Vision: Technology Vision 2020 for self-reliance.
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Conclusion
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, the Missile Man of India, transformed India’s defence landscape with his leadership in missile and nuclear programs. His humility, vision, and dedication continue to inspire. Explore more India defence news for insights.
FAQs on Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam
Who is the Missile Man of India?
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, for his role in developing Agni and Prithvi missiles.
Why is Dr Kalam known as the Missile Man of India?
He led the IGMDP, advancing India’s missile technology and nuclear capabilities.
Who is the first Missile Man of India?
Dr. Kalam is recognized as the first for pioneering missile development.
Who is the second Missile Man of India?
No official title, but Dr. V.K. Saraswat is often cited for later contributions.
Who is the Missile Man of the world?
No global title exists; Kalam’s work is globally respected.
What is APJ Abdul Kalam full name?
Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam.
What is APJ Abdul Kalam father name?
Jainulabdeen Marakayar.
Did APJ Abdul Kalam have a wife?
No, he remained unmarried.
What was APJ Abdul Kalam education?
Physics from St. Joseph’s College (1954) and aeronautical engineering from Madras Institute of Technology (1960).
What was APJ Abdul Kalam age at death?
83 years old.
What was APJ Abdul Kalam death date?
July 27, 2015.
What are APJ Abdul Kalam Awards?
Includes Bharat Ratna (1997), Padma Vibhushan (1990), Padma Bhushan (1981).
What is Indian missile test, Wheeler Island?
Tests at Abdul Kalam Island, Odisha, for missiles like Agni and Prithvi.
