New Delhi: In a solemn and inspiring ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan, President Droupadi Murmu paid floral tribute to Bharat Ratna Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam on his 94th birth anniversary, reaffirming the national commitment to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
The President met Dr. Kalam’s great-grandnephews, APJMJ Sheik Dawood and Dr. APJMJ Sheik Saleem, who shared heartfelt reflections on his enduring legacy and his dream of transforming India into a developed and self-reliant nation powered by science and innovation.
A Legacy That Continues to Inspire
Addressing the gathering, President Murmu described Dr. Kalam as more than a distinguished scientist — “a guiding light for generations of students, teachers, and researchers.” She emphasized that the national mission of Viksit Bharat 2047, championed by Narendra Modi, draws profound inspiration from Dr. Kalam’s lifelong commitment to a technologically advanced and empowered India.
APJMJ Sheik Dawood remarked that the tribute at Rashtrapati Bhavan symbolized not just remembrance, but a renewed national resolve to realize Dr. Kalam’s vision of a “Developed India.” Echoing this sentiment, Dr. APJMJ Sheik Saleem highlighted how India’s recent space milestones reflect the living legacy of Dr. Kalam’s dreams.
Distinguished Scientific Presence
The ceremony was graced by eminent scientists including:
- P. Veeramuthuvel, Project Director of Chandrayaan-3
- Nigar Shaji, Project Director of Aditya-L1
- Senior officials from Indian Space Research Organisation and Defence Research and Development Organisation
Their presence underscored the deep scientific foundation upon which Dr. Kalam built his national vision.
‘Space Mission–2025’ Concludes in New Delhi
Coinciding with the commemorative event, the three-day national symposium Space Mission–2025 concluded at the NCUI Auditorium and Convention Centre. The symposium brought together nearly 1,000 students from across India, fostering scientific curiosity and innovation through model exhibitions, STEM research presentations, workshops, quizzes, and awards.
Union Minister of State L. Murugan addressed participants virtually from the Dr. Kalam Memorial in Rameswaram, noting that Dr. Kalam’s “Developed India 2020” vision has evolved into the broader national mission of Viksit Bharat 2047. He encouraged youth to imbibe Dr. Kalam’s humility, discipline, and scientific temper.
Similarly, Raksha Nikhil Khadse urged young innovators to actively participate in national initiatives and leverage platforms that connect youth to policymaking and entrepreneurship.
A Movement, Not Just a Memorial
Organizers described Space Mission–2025 as more than a conference — calling it a national movement aimed at nurturing the next generation of scientists, engineers, and changemakers.
As India advances in space exploration and technological innovation, the commemorative event stood as a powerful reminder that Dr. Kalam’s dream lives on — in laboratories, classrooms, launchpads, and in the aspirations of millions of young Indians.
