Parliament on Tuesday hailed former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam as the “real gem” of India. As a mark of respect to the departed leader, members of both Houses stood in silence before the proceedings were adjourned for the day.
“In Dr Kalam’s death, the country has lost a sagacious statesman, a great scientist and a friend of the under-privileged and a fine human being,” the Lok Sabha said in a glowing tribute to Kalam, who died in Shillong on Monday.
The Rajya Sabha said, “In the passing away of Dr A P J Abdul Kalam, the country has lost a true son of India and his contributions to the nation, in his capacity as a man of technology, a teacher and a leader will be deeply cherished by a grateful nation.”
Both Houses were adjourned till July 30.
Noting that Kalam was a unique personality who embodied rare intellectual brilliance and an undying scientific zeal, Ms. Mahajan said he worked his way to become the driving force behind India’s space and missile programmes.
In the Rajya Sabha, Chairman Hamid Ansari said Kalam’s death was “an irreparable loss to the country.”
“He was a guide to India’s space and missile programmes and his efforts saw India become a front-ranking power in these spheres ... His life will always remain a source of inspiration to all,” he said.
The members stood in silence for some time, before the Chairman adjourned the House for the day.
'A true nationalist’
The meeting of the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressed its profound sorrow at the demise of the former President.
In the resolution, it said, “In his passing away the country has lost a visionary scientist, a true nationalist and a great son”.
