President Pranab Mukherjee on Monday expressed his condolence over the sudden demise of A.P.J Abdul Kalam saying that the former president will be always be remembered for his passion for science and innovation.
"He was a Bharat Ratna and people's President. Dr. Kalam was immensely popular and greatly admired. Dr. Kalam will be long remembered for his passion for science and innovation and his contribution as an eminent scientist, administrator, educationist and writer. I pay my respectful homage to my late departed friend Dr. A.P.J Abdul Kalam," said Mukherjee.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier condoled Kalam's demise, saying that India mourns the loss of a great scientist, a wonderful president and above all, an inspiring individual.
"It is extremely sad news. He took India to new heights as a scientist and as a president and even after that. He was a great visionary and has inspired me to a great extent. I had got a chance to work closely with him. India mourns the loss of a great scientist, a wonderful president and above all an inspiring individual," the Prime Minister said.
Kalam, 84, passed away in Shillong earlier today after he was admitted to a hospital in the city.
The former president collapsed during a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management. He was in a critical condition and had been admitted to the city's Bethany Hospital.
Kalam served as the 11th President on India from 2002 to 2007.