India Remembers ‘People’s President’ APJ Abdul Kalam On His Death Anniversary; Here Are Some Of His Best Quotes For Students

India fondly remembered former president APJ Abdul Kalam on his death anniversary today. The scientist and political leader remain an inspiration to many especially students.

Former President of India Dr APJ Abdul Kalam/ Image:PTI

New Delhi: Former President APJ Abdul Kalam was fondly remembered by India today on his fifth death anniversary. The aerospace scientist who is also known as the 'missile man of India' served as the country's 11^th president from 2002 to 2007. Before getting involved in politics, Kalam worked as a scientist mainly with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). He was involved in India's civilian space programme and military missile development work. He worked on the development of ballistic missile and launch vehicle technology. He also played a significant role in India’s 1998 nuclear test Pokhran-II. After a single term, Kalam who was known as the 'People's President' returned to a life of teaching and writing. He died from an apparent cardiac arrest on 27 July 2015, aged 83 while delivering a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management Shillong. Several leaders including Home Minister Amit Shah paid their respect to Kalam and wrote heartfelt messages on Twitter.

Tributes to Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, an epitome of intellect, wisdom and simplicity. A People’s President, who left indelible marks on several fields ranging from science to politics. His relentless quest for knowledge continues to inspire and capture the idea of self-reliant India. pic.twitter.com/YS8p8FjYxE

— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) July 27, 2020

My humble tributes to former President, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam on his death anniversary today. He was an outstanding scientist, a great human being and a ‘People’s President’, who inspired the people of the country, particularly the youth through his actions & words. #apjabdulkalam pic.twitter.com/63vsTQF8B9

— Vice President of India (@VPSecretariat) July 27, 2020

Kalam took an active interest in the Education sector especially science and technology. He enjoyed interacting with students and keenly all their questions during events. Here are some of his best quotes that are still relevant for students who are facing a tough time this year with the ongoing pandemic and several changes in the education sector

• The only thing that’s stopping you is YOU. Rests are just excuses.
• 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.
• If you fail, never give up because FAIL means “First Attempt In Learning.
• To succeed in your mission, you must have a single-minded devotion to your goal.
• All of us do not have equal talent. But, all of us have an equal opportunity to develop our talents.
• A dream is not that which you see while sleeping, it is something that does not let you sleep.
• Difficulties are part of life. They are there to prepare you, increase you, and develop you.
• Man needs difficulties in life because they are necessary to enjoy success.
• The best brains of the nation may be found on the last benches of the classroom.
• If you want to shine like a sun, first burn like a sun.