Paying glowing tributes to former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has said that real homage to the late President would be in striving to achieve his dreams for India.
Addressing a condolence meeting at the Secretariat here on Tuesday, Mr. Naidu recalled the contribution of Abdul Kalam in inspiring the youth to dream big and said his book 'Wings of Fire' would serve as a great inspiration to youth.
Describing Kalam as a genuine Bharat Ratna, Mr. Naidu said he considered himself fortunate to have recommended his name for the post of President to the then Prime Minister A.B. Vajpayee.
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Several employees, Andhra Pradesh ministers and officers gathered at the Secretariat to pay their respects to the departed soul and offer their condolences.
Kalam had great faith and confidence in the capabilities of Indian youth and was proud of them and it was significant that he breathed his last while addressing students at the Indian Institute of Management, Shillong Mr. Naidu said.
His message to every one was to dream big and strive hard to achieve them. His request was not to declare a holiday when he died and as per his wishes "we all should work more as a mark of respect to the noble man," Mr. Naidu said. HIs words of inspiration would forever motivate people across the globe, he said.
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A true scientist till the end, Kalam dedicated his life for the research in various sectors and emphasised the use of technology in agriculture when he came to Anantapur for the launch of Primary Sector mission.
The meeting observed two-minute silence as a mark of respect to Kalam. Ministers Atchannaidu, Peethala Sujatha, K.Mrinalini, Kollu Ravindra, Bojjala Gopalakrishna Reddy and others were present at the meeting.