CM Chandrababu Naidu pays tribute to APJ Abdul Kalam on birth anniversary
Synopsis
Andhra Pradesh CM Nara Chandrababu Naidu paid tribute to former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam on his 95th birth anniversary, October 15, 2026. Kalam, the 'Missile Man of India' and 11th President, is remembered for his science-driven vision and deep bond with students across the country.
Key Takeaways
October 15, 2026 marks the 95th birth anniversary of former President A.P.J.
Andhra Pradesh CM Nara Chandrababu Naidu paid floral tribute to Kalam's portrait at the Chief Minister's Office.
Kalam served as India's 11th President from 2002 to 2007 and is widely known as the 'Missile Man of India.' Born on October 15, 1931 in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu , Kalam led India's missile and space programmes before entering the highest constitutional office.
October 15 is observed as World Students' Day in recognition of Kalam's lifelong commitment to youth and education.
On the 95th birth anniversary of former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam — October 15, 2026 — Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu paid floral tribute to a portrait of the late scientist-statesman at the Chief Minister's Office, honouring the man whose life became a national reference point for youth, science, and possibility.
The Chief Minister's Office of Andhra Pradesh shared the moment on X, noting that CM Naidu offered his respects to the portrait of Maaji Rashtrapati Swargeeya Abdul Kalam garu (the late former President Abdul Kalam) on the occasion of his birth anniversary.
Who was A.P.J. Abdul Kalam
Born on October 15, 1931, in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam rose from modest beginnings to lead India's most consequential defence and space programmes. As the chief architect of India's Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme, he earned the enduring title 'Missile Man of India.' He served as the 11th President of India from 2002 to 2007, and was arguably the most beloved occupant of Rashtrapati Bhavan in living memory — a scientist in the highest constitutional office, a rare combination that captured the public imagination. His connection to students was visceral. He visited schools and colleges relentlessly, urged young people to dream without limits, and made the case that science and curiosity were the surest paths to national strength. It is precisely that legacy that has led October 15 to be observed in many quarters as World Students' Day.Andhra Pradesh's stake in the Kalam legacy
For Andhra Pradesh, the tribute carries particular resonance. The state's political and administrative leadership has repeatedly invoked Kalam's vision of a technology-driven, knowledge-based India as a template for its own development ambitions. CM Naidu, a leader whose public identity is bound up with IT-sector investment and infrastructure ambition, has frequently cited Kalam's emphasis on youth empowerment and innovation as an ideological touchstone. Every year, the anniversary prompts state governments across India to signal their commitments on education, skill development, and scientific temper — the causes Kalam championed most loudly. Whether Andhra Pradesh follows this tribute with concrete programme announcements remains to be seen, but the gesture places the state government's priorities in unmistakable company. Kalam passed away on July 27, 2015, while delivering a lecture at IIM Shillong — fittingly, mid-sentence, mid-thought, in front of students. The image has never left the national memory. On anniversaries like today, it returns with full force.Point of View
Invoking Kalam aligns naturally with his own brand of technology-forward governance and positions Andhra Pradesh as a state that takes the science-and-youth agenda seriously. Kalam's cross-party, cross-caste appeal makes him a uniquely safe and potent symbol: honouring him costs nothing politically and signals aspiration broadly. The real question is whether such tributes translate into the education and innovation investments Kalam's legacy actually demands.
NationPress
15 Oct 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
When is APJ Abdul Kalam's birth anniversary?
A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was born on October 15, 1931 , and his birth anniversary is observed every year on October 15, also recognised as World Students' Day.
Why is October 15 called World Students' Day?
October 15 is observed as World Students' Day in honour of A.P.J. Kalam's lifelong dedication to inspiring and educating students across India and the world.
Who is Nara Chandrababu Naidu?
Nara Chandrababu Naidu is the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh and leader of the Telugu Desam Party, known for his focus on technology-driven economic development in the state.
What was APJ Abdul Kalam famous for?
A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was famous for leading India's missile development programmes, earning the title 'Missile Man of India,' and serving as the 11th President of India from 2002 to 2007 .
How did APJ Abdul Kalam pass away?
A.P.J. Kalam passed away on July 27, 2015 , while delivering a lecture at IIM Shillong — a detail that has since become an enduring part of his legend.
