12th August 2015 New Delhi, India
Remembering Dr APJ Abdul Kalam
Former President of India, Scientist extraordinaire, enthusiastic professor and writer, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam passed away on 27th July 2015 in Shillong, Meghalaya where he was to deliver a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Shillong. Popularly known as the ‘People’s President’, Dr Kalam worked as a Scientist at Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), and Chief Scientific Adviser to the Prime Minister (1992-1999) before joining politics. He served as the 11th President of India from 2002-2007 and later dedicated his life to education, public services and writing. 
Dr Kalam was one of the most distinguished scientists of India and he was the recipient of three coveted Indian civilian awards – Padma Bhushan (1981), Padma Vibhushan (1990) and the highest civilian award, the Bharat Ratna (1997). Dr Kalam received honorary doctorates from 43 universities and institutions across the world. In addition, he has received several awards and was a fellow of numerous professional institutions.
Dr Kalam has had several ties with United Kingdom. The Royal Society, UK awarded the prestigious “King Charles-II Medal” for Science and Technology to Dr Kalam in October 2007. He became the second world leader to receive the Royal Society’s prestigious King Charles II medal after Emperor Akihito of Japan. The Royal Academy of Engineering, London conferred on him the International Medal in London (June 2009). He has also received an Honorary Doctorate of Science from the School of Applied Sciences, University of Wolverhampton in October 2007 for his outstanding achievements in the field of science and technology.
Dr Kalam was also awarded an honorary degree by Edinburgh University, Scotland. His contribution to science and technology and his commitment to transform India into a developed and progressive nation earned him laurels not just in India, but also across the globe. Dr Kalam was the Chief Guest at the inaugural conference of the University’s Edinburgh India Institute in May 2014. The Edinburgh India Institute has helped bring India and Scotland together by helping coordinate the work of Edinburgh academics who are working with partners in India. He congratulated the people behind the ‘unique institute representing the confluence of values and cultures of two civilisations’.
@UKinIndia tweeted, “Heartfelt condolences to the people of #India on the passing away of inspirational leader Dr Abdul #Kalam. #RIPKalam @APJAbdulKalam”, “Union Flag flies half mast as mark of respect to Dr APJ Abdul #Kalam. #UK stands with people of #India. #RIPKalam”.
“President #Kalam was a great scientist and statesman, and friend of #Britain. HMG’s thoughts are with the #Indian people,” UK MP Rt Hon Oliver Letwin tweeted.
Andrew McAllister, British Deputy High Commissioner Hyderabad tweeted “Fond memories of a short time spent with a truly great man. #RIPKalam Condolences to all who felt the loss”.
David Lelliot, British Deputy High Commission Chandigarh tweeted, “RIP Dr @APJAbdulKalam – it’s clear from the outpouring of national grief that you will be much missed.”