1 crore saplings to be planted on Kalam death anniversary

Ramewswaram, July 11: House of Kalam is gearing up to observe the first death anniversary of former President Dr A P J Abdul Kalam here on July 27. Elaborate plans are in place to mark the anniversary by launching few initiatives that were closer to Dr Kalam's heart.

Former President was laid to rest at Pei Karumbu in Rameswaram last year. The proposed Kalam Memorial is being planned here, with a fencing wall already constructed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation.

A family member from House of Kalam told OneIndia on Monday that around 1 crore saplings are being planted across India on July 27. "We are undertaking some missions that were closer to Dr Kalam's heart on the same day," says a family member.

The July 27 events at Rameswaram is being organised by Dr A P J Abdul Kalam International Foundation (AKIF).

AKIF wants to spread the library concept across homes, schools and colleges. "We want to launch Kalam Libraries in schools to promote the art of reading. We will provide 25 books to government schools, if they are unable to set up the library with their own resources," says a family member.
The Foundation also plans to set up Kalam Learning Clubs across schools in a phased manner.

"The learning clubs will inculcate leadership qualities among schoolchildren in addition to spreading the advancements India made in science and technology fields. We want to spread awareness on PURA concept among schoolchildren," he said. PURA (Providing Urban Amenities to Rural Areas) is a concept envisaged by Dr Kalam.

The family is expected to share their thoughts on the events being planned on July 27 at a press meet organised in Chennai today.

OneIndia News