Expressing his condolences over the death of A.P.J Abdul Kalam, Union Communications and Information Technology Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Monday said that he was looking forward to discuss the 'Digital India' initiative with the former president but destiny had some other plans.
"He was a great human being and a powerful personality. He was loved by school children. I wanted to discuss the Digital India initiative, but I guess destiny had other plans. He knew how to connect with people as a president. I respect him a lot. His sudden death while speaking is an indication that the man wanted to leave this world while walking and talking," said Ravi Shankar.
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.