Pathways to Greatness by A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

Book Summary:

What makes a nation great? Is it simply economic prosperity and military strength -- or something more? What is it that we as a nation require to make that last-mile journey to what all the plans, investments and projects are meant to lead up to? It is only a matter of time before India is termed economically developed. But a nation has to learn to survive in tough times too. And for that what is most important is national character, born out of the value systems that exist in our families, what schools teach students, and the culture of the nation. In Pathways to Greatness, A.P.J. Abdul Kalam shifts focus from the economic development of India by 2020 to the development of our strengths, offering key lessons that will help India withstand the forces of change. He identifies what makes a nation great and also compares the standards of living of other nations with India's. He draws on his travels and his interactions with people. He evolves unique oaths for citizens from all walks of life to ensure that a better life becomes possible for everyone.In the book he completed just a few months before he passed away in 2015, one of India's best-known icons writes how our nation can become a leader on the pathways to greatness.

About the Author: 

Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam (October 15, 1931–July 27, 2015) was a visionary aerospace scientist, “Missile Man of India,” and the nation’s 11th President (2002–2007). Born to a humble boatman and imam in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, he earned degrees in physics and aerospace engineering before spearheading India’s SLV‑3 satellite launcher and key missile systems at ISRO and DRDO. He also played a pivotal role in the 1998 Pokhran-II nuclear tests.

After his presidency, Kalam emerged as a beloved teacher, prolific writer, and mentor—traveling widely, speaking at academic institutes, and authoring over 25 books including Wings of Fire, Ignited Minds, and Pathways to Greatness. He received India’s highest civilian honors—Padma Bhushan (1981), Padma Vibhushan (1990), and Bharat Ratna (1997)—and remained committed to inspiring youth and nurturing scientific temper until his death during a lecture in Shillong