Speech on Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam: The People’s President and Visionary Leader

Speech on Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam: The People’s President and Visionary Leader

Good morning to everyone present here. Respected President of the program, honourable judges and teachers, dear friends.

It is an honour and privilege to speak about one of the most respected and beloved figures in India, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. A name that echoes not just through the scientific corridors of our country, but in the hearts of millions. Dr. Kalam was a man who embodied the spirit of humility, intellect, and a deep love for his country and its people.

He was born on October 15, 1931, in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu. Dr. Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam rose from a modest background to become a national icon. His journey from a small coastal town to becoming the “Missile Man of India” and the 11th President of the country is memorable.

Dr. Kalam’s contributions to India’s defense and space technology are legendary. As a scientist, he played a pivotal role in India’s missile development programs, earning him the title of the “Missile Man.” Under his leadership, India developed the Agni and Prithvi missiles. .

Dr. Kalam’s work at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) was equally groundbreaking. He was instrumental in the development of India’s first satellite launch vehicle, SLV-III. It successfully deployed the Rohini satellite into space in 1980. This achievement placed India among the elite group of space-faring nations.

He was also a key figure in the Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998, which established India as a nuclear power on the global stage. His scientific contributions are a matter of great national pride. His unwavering commitment to serving the people sets him apart.


Dr. Kalam was not just a scientist. He was a man with a vision. His dream was to see India as a developed nation, not just in terms of technology but in every sphere of life. His book, “India 2020: A Vision for the New Millennium,” outlined his dream of transforming India into a self-reliant and prosperous nation. He believed that science and technology should serve society . It should improve the quality of life for every citizen, especially the underprivileged.

But Dr. Kalam’s vision extended beyond science. He saw the youth of India as the torchbearers of the nation’s future. Throughout his life, he interacted with students, encouraging them to dream big, work hard, and believe in their potential. He famously said, “सपने देखो, सपने देखो, सपने देखो। सपने विचारों में बदल जाते हैं और विचार कार्य में परिणित होते हैं।”



When Dr. Kalam became the President of India in 2002, he brought with him a sense of accessibility and warmth that made him beloved by all. He was often referred to as the “People’s President” because of his humble nature and his close connection with ordinary citizens, especially the youth. His presidency was marked by his willingness to listen, to engage with the common man, and to break away from the formality typically associated with the office.

Even after his presidency, Dr. Kalam continued his mission to inspire and mentor students across the country. He visited schools, colleges, and universities, sharing his wisdom and life lessons. His humility and simplicity were a reflection of his belief that true greatness comes from serving others.



Dr. Kalam’s legacy is not limited to his contributions to science or his role as a leader. It is his unwavering belief in the potential of India’s youth that will be remembered for generations. He once said, “The best brains of the nation may be found on the last benches of the classroom.” This statement reflects his deep belief that greatness can come from anyone, regardless of their background or circumstances.

His life was a testament to the fact that with hard work, perseverance, and a deep sense of purpose, one can rise above any challenge. He taught us that it is not where you start that matters, but where you aim to go.



As we remember Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam today, let us not forget the values he stood for—humility, hard work, dedication to the nation, and the power of dreams. He left us with a vision for a better India, and it is now our responsibility to carry that vision forward.

In his own words, “” Let us dream big, work hard, and make those dreams a reality, just as Dr. Kalam did.

Thank you.