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My Dream come true 'Moment' with Honorable Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam

The Footsteps of Greatness: From NTU to the Yashokirti Award

In 2007, amidst the pathways of Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore, a moment occurred that would define the true north of my academic journey. I found myself walking directly behind my ultimate role model, the then President of India, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam.

For nearly 100 meters, as the university’s top administrators followed in a formal procession, I trailed closely behind him. I wasn't just walking; I was consciously trying to match his stride, placing my feet precisely where his had just been. While the NTU archives hold the photographs and videos of that day, the true record was written in my resolve. Standing behind the "People’s President," I realized that to honor a leader is to carry their burden of service to the youth.

The Circle Completes: The Yashokirti Award

Nearly two decades later, as I stood at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) to receive the prestigious Er. Avinash Shirode Yashokirti Award 2026, that 100-meter walk felt more alive than ever.

I firmly believe the seeds of this recognition were sown during those few minutes at NTU. The Yashokirti Award recognizes impactful contributions to engineering, and there is no greater impact than channeling scientific knowledge into a noble, social cause.

Living the Legacy: The Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Research Centre

But an award is merely a milestone; the true tribute to my role model is action. To directly manifest his vision of empowering young minds, I established the Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Research Centre this year under our Virtual AISIA R&D Lab initiative.

Operating strictly on a "Zero-Funding" model, this center is fueled entirely by raw passion, mentorship, and a commitment to democratic education. We don't wait for massive budgets to innovate; we rely on intellect and dedication.

The Mission: Providing undergraduate students with high-level research opportunities that replace expensive infrastructure with accessible, mobile-driven engineering solutions.

The Team: The journey has already begun with three undergraduate students actively working on groundbreaking projects, and two more bright minds set to join the ranks soon.

When I look at these young researchers, I don't just see students—I see the "Ignited Minds" that Dr. Kalam believed would shape the future. By giving them a platform to innovate for free, the walk that started behind a giant at NTU in 2007 continues today through the footsteps of the students I lead.