The speech on Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam celebrates the life and values of one of India’s most respected scientists, educators, and Presidents. Known as the “Missile Man of India,” Dr. Kalam inspired millions through his dedication to science, humility, and patriotism.
Whether you’re preparing for a school assembly, a speech competition, or an event on National Science Day, this article will help you express his legacy with clarity and emotion. In this article, you will find three versions of the speech — a 250, 500, and 1000-word speech on Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam — each written in a natural, student-friendly tone with proper openings and conclusions suitable for public speaking.
Speech on Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam – 250 Words
Good morning to everyone present here — respected Principal, teachers, and dear friends.
Today, I feel proud to speak about a person who continues to inspire not only India but the entire world — Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam.
Dr. Kalam was born on 15th October 1931 in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu. Despite coming from a humble background, he had big dreams and a deep love for learning. Through hard work and discipline, he became one of India’s greatest scientists and served as the 11th President of India.
Known as the “Missile Man of India,” Dr. Kalam played a key role in developing India’s space and defense technologies. He also guided the Pokhran-II nuclear tests, making India proud on the global stage. But what made him truly special was his simplicity, honesty, and love for students.
Even after becoming President, Dr. Kalam remained a teacher at heart. He visited schools and colleges, encouraging young minds to dream big and work hard. He believed that the future of India lies in the hands of the youth.
His life was a perfect example of how determination and knowledge can overcome any obstacle. He left behind powerful words: “Dream, dream, dream. Dreams transform into thoughts and thoughts result in action.”
Thank you so much. Let us all try to walk the path he showed us — with knowledge, discipline, and service to our nation.
Speech on Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam – 500 Words
Good morning to the respected Principal, teachers, and my dear fellow students.
It’s an honor to stand here today and speak about one of the most inspiring figures in modern India — Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam. He was not just a scientist or a President; he was a teacher, thinker, and role model for millions of Indians, especially the youth.
Dr. Kalam was born on 15th October 1931 in the town of Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu. His early life was full of hardships. His father was a boat owner, and the family had limited resources. But young Kalam was full of curiosity and a strong desire to learn. He worked hard during the day and studied under streetlights at night. His early life teaches us that no dream is too big if we are willing to work for it.
He studied aeronautical engineering and went on to join the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) and later the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). He played a leading role in India’s missile development programs and was rightly called the “Missile Man of India.” His contributions were vital in making India self-reliant in defense technologies.
In 2002, Dr. Kalam became the 11th President of India. Despite holding the highest constitutional post, he remained humble and deeply connected to students and young people. He visited thousands of schools and universities during and after his presidency, encouraging children to dream big, set goals, and work hard.
What made Dr. Kalam different was not just his brilliance but his values. He lived a simple life, never married, and donated most of his earnings to charity and education. His speeches and books, like Wings of Fire, continue to motivate us. He once said, “If you want to shine like a sun, first burn like a sun.” That one sentence tells us everything about his journey.
Dr. Kalam passed away on 27th July 2015 while delivering a lecture — doing what he loved till his last breath. His legacy lives on in the hearts of every student who dreams, every teacher who inspires, and every citizen who serves.
Thank you for listening. May we all follow his example — to dream big, stay grounded, and serve our country with knowledge and dedication.
Speech on Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam – 1000 Words
Introduction
In this article, you will find three versions of the speech — a 250, 500, and 1000-word speech on Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam — each written in a natural, student-friendly tone with proper openings and conclusions suitable for public speaking.
Opening Address
Good morning to all respected teachers, my dear friends, and our beloved Principal.
Today, I feel privileged to speak about one of India’s greatest minds — a man who rose from a small town to become the 11th President of India and who still lives in the hearts of millions. I am talking about none other than Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam.
Early Life and Education
Dr. Kalam was born on 15th October 1931 in Rameswaram, a coastal town in Tamil Nadu. His family wasn’t rich, but they were honest and hardworking. From a very young age, Kalam showed a deep interest in learning. He used to sell newspapers to support his family and still found time to study late at night.
His passion for science led him to pursue aerospace engineering. He studied at the Madras Institute of Technology, where he faced many challenges, including financial struggles. But his dedication and focus kept him going. This early part of his life teaches us that success is not about where you come from but where you want to go.
His Contribution to Science and India’s Defense
Dr. Kalam’s career in science began at DRDO and later at ISRO, where he became a key figure in India’s space and missile development programs. He led the SLV-III project, which launched India’s first satellite, Rohini, into space. He also played a major role in the development of Agni and Prithvi missiles, earning him the title “Missile Man of India.”
One of his biggest contributions came in 1998 when he helped lead India’s successful nuclear tests at Pokhran. These tests placed India firmly on the global map as a strong and self-reliant nation.
Through all this, Dr. Kalam remained humble and focused on national development, especially in the areas of science and technology.
His Role as the President of India
In 2002, Dr. Kalam became the 11th President of India. He was not a politician, but people from all walks of life admired him. His presidency was marked by accessibility, inspiration, and simplicity. Students called him the “People’s President” because he made them feel heard, respected, and encouraged.
He used his platform not to talk about power but about ideas, dreams, and how young people could build a better India. Even after his term ended, he continued to travel, speak, and guide youth.
Inspiration to the Youth
Dr. Kalam loved students. He believed that children are the future of the nation. He often said, “Dream, dream, dream. Dreams transform into thoughts, and thoughts result in action.” This message touched millions.
He wrote many inspirational books like Ignited Minds, Wings of Fire, and India 2020, which are read in schools and colleges even today. These books are filled with real stories, simple advice, and powerful ideas for young Indians.
He always encouraged young minds to question, to imagine, and to serve the country. In fact, he passed away while doing what he loved — addressing students at IIM Shillong on 27th July 2015.
Legacy and Life Lessons
What truly made Dr. Kalam special was not just his knowledge but his character. He remained unmarried, lived simply, and donated most of his money to education. He believed in honesty, hard work, and self-discipline.
His life teaches us many lessons — that poverty is not a barrier to greatness, that science should serve society, and that real leadership comes from humility and service.
Conclusion
To conclude, Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam was more than a scientist, more than a President — he was a visionary who saw greatness in every young Indian. He dedicated his life to our country’s growth, our education system, and the dreams of its children.
Thank you so much for your attention. Let’s honor his memory not just with words, but by living the values he stood for — discipline, learning, and love for our nation. Jai Hind!