DHAKA: Former President of India APJ Abdul Kalam, the renowned missile scientist who played a stellar role in advancing India’s nuclear programme, died on Monday after collapsing at an event in Meghalaya.
His body was flown to Guwahati in Assam Tuesday morning and will be brought to Delhi by a special aircraft, reports ndtv.
All three service chiefs of India will receive his body at the airport. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also likely to be present.
Dr Kalam, 83, collapsed after a massive cardiac arrest while delivering a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) in Shillong Monday evening.
The government has declared a seven-day national mourning as a mark of respect for the man known and loved across the country as the “People’s President”.
The Union Cabinet will hold a special meeting in New Delhi Tuesday to condole Dr Kalam’s death. Details of his funeral would also be decided today.
Paying tribute to Dr Kalam last night, PM Modi had said, “My mind is filled with so many memories, so many interactions with him. Always marvelled at his intellect, learnt so much from him.”
Home Minister Rajnath Singh tweeted, “Deeply saddened at the sudden demise of the former president of India Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. He was an inspiration to an entire generation.”
Messages of condolence also poured in from various leaders.
Known as the Missile Man of India, Dr Kalam played a pivotal role in the Pokhran-II nuclear test in 1998. He was awarded the Padma Bhushan and Bharat Ratna for his achievements.
While in his 70s, he was nominated for the MTV Youth Icon of the Year award in 2003 and 2006.
BDST: 1004 HRS, JULY 28, 2015
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** APJ Abdul Kalam passes away
