APJ-ABDUL-KALAM

Former President APJ Abdul Kalam, the ‘missile man’ who came to be known as    

 ‘People’s President’ .

Here are some of the interesting facts about Kalam's life:

• Born on 15 October, 1931, in a Tamil Muslim family to a boat owner, Jainulabudeen, and Ashiamma, a housewife, in Ramanathapuram district of Tamil Nadu, Kalam's childhood was not easy and privileged.
• In order to support his poor family, young Kalam used to distribute newspapers after his school hours to add to his father's income.
• His favourite subjects were Mathematics and Physics and ultimately, he took up aerospace engineering later in life.
• India owes its development as a nuclear nation to Kalam's organizational and technical support for Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998, the first such tests after a gap of 24 years.
• At ISRO, He was one of the pioneers of India's first space launch-vehicle program.
• Kalam was recipient of Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan and Bharat Ratna.
• A prolific writer, Kalam has authored around 15 books on various subjects ranging from nuclear physics to spiritual experiences.
• His autobiography Wings of Fire: An Autobiography , first published in English, has been translated into 13 languages including French and Chinese.
• Sworn in on 25 July, 2002, Kalam became 11th President of India, succeeding KR Narayanan. For his simple and humble attitude, he was affectionately known as the 'People's President.'

Here are Abdul Kalam’s ten inspiring quotes 

“Don’t take rest after your first victory because if you fail in second, more lips are waiting to say that your first victory was just luck.”

 “All Birds find shelter during a rain. But Eagle avoids rain by flying above the Clouds. Problems are common,but attitude makes the difference.”

 “Man needs difficulties in life because they are necessary to enjoy the success.”

 “You have to dream before your dreams can come true.”

 “One of the very important characteristics of a student is to question. Let the students ask questions.” 

“It is very easy to defeat someone, but it is very hard to win someone.” 

“Look at the sky. We are not alone. The whole universe is friendly to us and conspires only to give the best to those who dream and work.”

 “Be more dedicated to making solid achievements than in running after swift but synthetic happiness.” 

“Thinking should become your capital asset, no matter whatever ups and downs you come across in your life.”

 “Without your involvement you can’t succeed. With your involvement you can’t fail."