Amidst the continuous outpouring of tributes to late Indian president APJ Abdul Kalam, his mortal remains reached his hometown of Rameswaram in the southernmost tip of India where he will be laid to rest today with full state honours. The funeral is expected to begin at 11 a.m., and Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other dignitaries are likely to attend.
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Principal Spokesperson, Ministry of Defence, Sitanshu Kar earlier tweeted: The rush at #Rameswaram.to pay homage to #PeoplesPresident #APJAbdulKalam.
He suffered a massive cardiac arrest while delivering a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management.
In a condolence message, the Governor described Dr Kalam as an illustrious and visionary President of India who guided millions of children to follow the path of the finest leaders of the Country. Singh said that Kalam, who had sworn-in him as Prime Minister, was aware of the developments in the Congress party and the UPA in the run-up to the government formation then. “Despite the many billionaires and “successful” men and women, there are hardly any role models we can present to the youth – Dr. Kalam stands out as a very modern role model, and his words are always inspiring”. “I am still not able to believe that Kalam is no more”.
Thousands came down on the streets of Ramesharam as Dr Kalam’s body was being taken for the final rites. “Dr. Kalam was a ‘People’s President, ‘ and ignited those he met with a passion not only to contribute to India’s growth, but to aim for world-class standards in their pursuits and be the best on a global platform”.
His main concern was to use science and technology for human advancement and good neighborliness.
The president said he was shocked when he heard the unexpected news of Kalam’s demise.
“Egyptian people and government express sad feelings on the loss of such a great leader”, she wrote in the condolence book at the Consulate General of India in Dubai. His father owned a boat, and his mother constantly struggled to keep the family sufficiently fed and clothed. We all could not stop our tears from escaping our eyes.
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Kalam rose to the highest office in India from humble beginnings.
