Govt to 'institutionalise' the memory of APJ Abdul Kalam

New Delhi, Aug 5: The government today said it will "institutionalise" the memory of late President A P J Abdul Kalam for his glorious contributions in diverse fields.

The Union Cabinet would discuss the matter in detail, Minister for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences Harsh Vardhan informed Lok Sabha but did not provide any details. Kalam, who had served as the President from 2002-07, passed away on July 27.

He was known for contributions to science and education. "We will certainly institutionalise the memory of Kalam" for his contributions to science, values and various issues relating to education, Vardhan said.

During the Question Hour, the Minister said there was no difference of opinion on the "glorious contributions" made by Kalam as President and a scientist.

"It is definitely the feeling of the whole country," he said while responding to a question from a member on whether the government would consider instituting an award in the name of Kalam.

Separately, Human Resource Development Minister Smriti Irani was asked whether the government would look at renaming 'Rashtriya Aavishkar Abhiyan' (RAA) scheme after Kalam.

Without giving a definite reply, she said Kalam, who is always an inspiration, wanted to tap the potential of youth in the country. RAA, launched by Kalam himself on July 9, envisages motivating and engaging students in the 6-18 years age group in learning science, mathematics, technology by way of activities both inside and outside classrooms.

Under the scheme, schools would be mentored by IITs, IIMs and central universities, among others.

"The activities/components of RAA would be funded under Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan and Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan. In 2015-16, an amount of Rs 150 crore and Rs 108.26 crore has been earmarked under SAA and RMSA, respectively," Irani said.

PTI