India-Pak tension: Akash creator recalls Kalam’s contribution in developing missile system

As Indian cities faced a barrage of drone and missile threats from Pakistan on May 8 and 9, it was the Akash surface-to-air missile system that rose to the occasion. Developed over 15 years ago, this indigenous defence shield played a critical role in intercepting and neutralising incoming threats, proving its enduring strategic value.

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At the core of Akash’s legacy is Dr. Prahlada Ramarao, the former DRDO scientist who led its development. In an exclusive conversation with NewsFirst Prime, Dr. Prahlada reflected not only on the missile’s journey but also on working with the late Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, who headed the project.

“It involves commitment,” Dr. Prahlada recalled. “When I introduced Kalam to others as my boss, he was quick to correct me—he said, ‘Your project is your boss.’ That’s the level of dedication we had.”

He emphasized that Indian brainpower, when nurtured, can achieve the extraordinary. “It is being used everywhere. What we need is extraordinary effort for extraordinary outcomes.”

Akash’s effectiveness during the recent escalation underscored India's growing self-reliance in defence technology. Built for quick response and high-mobility deployment, the Akash system now stands as a symbol of Indian innovation and resilience—exactly what Dr. Kalam and Dr. Prahlada envisioned decades ago.