US media highlights Abdul Kalam’s role in India’s nuclear programme

News:

• US media highlighted the contribution of ‘missile man’ A P J Abdul Kalam to the country’s atomic and space programme.
• “He was one of the most exuberant boosters of the country’s nuclear program,” The New York Times wrote in a rare obituary for Kalam.
• “He used the spotlight to urge India to build up its military strength and to free itself from the threat of domination by outside forces,” the daily said.
• Kalam has been credited with helping develop his country’s first space satellites. In the 1980s, he helped design the nuclear-capable ‘Prithvi’ and ‘Agni’ ballistic missiles, The Washington Post said.
• “He played a crucial role when India tested its nuclear weapons in 1998. The test resulted in sanctions against the country but helped elevate Mr Kalam to the status of folk hero in his country,” the Post said in its obituary.
• “Dr. Kalam also played a key role in boosting India’s nuclear capabilities, leading to nuclear tests in 1998, a technological achievement seen as pivotal in asserting the country’s place in global politics,” the WSJ said.

Source: ET