December 21, 2025 08:18 pm (IST)
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Abdul Kalam was 'Rashtra-Ratna' before a 'Rashtrapati: PM Modi
New Delhi, Oct 15 (IBNS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday described former President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam as one who was a 'Rashtra-Ratna' before a 'Rashtrapati.'
He was speaking at the birth anniversary celebrations of Dr. Kalam, at DRDO Bhavan in New Delhi.
The Prime Minister said that a memorial for Kalam would be built at Rameswaram, to inspire future generations.
He said, "While most people look for opportunities in life, Dr. Kalam always sought fresh challenges to overcome."
Modi recalled how he worked closely with Kalam during the post-earthquake reconstruction work in Kutch.
Recalling that Kalam wished to be remembered as a teacher, the Prime Minister said that, "The former President was well-aware of the importance of nurturing future generations."
He said that on the birth anniversary for Kalam, "we must explore how we can encourage innovation in India."
The Prime Minister mentioned several vital sectors where innovation was essential, including cyber-security, housing for all, river-linking, enhancing agricultural productivity, blue economy, and zero-defect, zero-effect manufacturing.
He said that Kalam had not only risen himself, from humble beginnings to the highest office in India, but had also built great institutions, virtually from scratch. He said all of us should draw inspiration from his example.
Earlier, the Prime Minister unveiled a statue of APJ Abdul Kalam at DRDO Bhavan. He opened and witnessed a photo exhibition titled – “A Celebration of Dr. Kalam’s Life.”
PM Modi also released a commemorative postal stamp on Kalam.
Union Ministers M. Venkaiah Naidu, Manohar Parrikar, Ravi Shankar Prasad, and Harsh Vardhan were present on the occasion.
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