AP CM in deep anguish over demise of Kalam

Hyderabad, July 28: Soon after hearing the news about the demise of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam due to cardiac arrest, Chief Minister Sri N. Chandrababu Naidu was in deep shock and anguish.

The Chief Minister said that Dr. Kalam is a dear friend and one of the noblest human beings he has met in his life. 'I'm deeply saddened. My deepest condolences'.Dr. Kalam & I shared a great bond. His achievements as a fine scientist, scholar, teacher and a mentor are immeasurable. He will remain in our hearts.'

Known as the Missile Man of India, Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam began his life as paperboy and rose to become one of India's greatest scientists who nurtured India's guided missile programs.

During the NDA rule in the country under Vajpayee's Prime Ministership, we had collectively proposed his name for the country's first citizen ' that of the President.

A Padma Bhushan and Bharat Ratna recipient for his superlative achievements, Dr. Kalam was famously known as the People's President for having touched the hearts of millions of people in the country.

'No adjectives can highlight the exemplary contribution of Dr. Kalam to India's space and defence programs. His humility and the generosity have won every Indian's heart. India has lost a legend of a man,' the Chief Minister said, recalling his memories of Dr. Kalam.

The Chief Minister recalled the former President's gesture of setting aside the protocol and visiting him in October 2003 at his residence, soon after he survived the Alipiri blast. 'I remember Dr. Kalam talking to me about leadership qualities that are essential to serve people and the society,' the Chief Minister remembered.

One cannot forget instances of Dr. Kalam's humility where he had invited a cobbler as one of the Presidential Guests to Raj Bhavan in Kerala nor can one overlook the fact that Dr. Kalam spent more time with kids, allowed them into the Rashtrapati Bhavan and listened to what they said. 'He is a gem of a person. An icon India has lost,' the Chief Minister added.

Dr. Kalam showed us that life is not rocket science and his teachings have ignited minds across the globe. He continues to be our guiding light and we can never forget how he taught us to dream big, the Chief Minister said.

Even in the most recent experiences, Dr. Kalam had launched the Primary Sector Mission in Ananthapur with me last year, the Chief Minister recalled, adding that he made all the farmers in the village recite a poem along with him.

Remembering Dr. Kalam's quote: 'Look at the sky. We are not alone. The whole universe is friendly to us and conspires only to give the best to those who dream and work.' 'May his Soul Rest in Peace,' the Chief Minister concluded.