1.8 - Unity Of Minds by A.P.J. Abdul Kalam

Summary

This context is about the speech of Abdul Kalam on the eve of the fifty-fifth anniversary of our independence. In this context he tells about his two visions and also tells us about his visit to Sabarmati Ashram.

First Vision

The first vision was to create a movement to achieve freedom. Each and everyone of them was the live force of our freedom movement. The great vision of free India was born around 1857.For 90 years, there was an intensive struggle for freedom. He have tried to capture the essence of the freedom movement and two aspects emerge: our independence is a result of supreme sacrifice and the vision driven movement created by many leaders.

Second Vision

Transform our country from a present developing status into a fully developed nation. It implies integrated actions in areas of agriculture and food processing, education, health care, infrastructure development which includes the development of power, information and communication and technoligies and critical tecnologies. The greater vision will aim at alleviating poverty, illiteracy and unemployment. When the minds of the people of out country are unified and focused towards this vision. A happy and prosperous life of a billion people is the chief goal of this vision.

Visit to Sabarmati Ashram

After returning from Gujarat, he visited the Sabarmati Ashram established by Mahatma Gandhiji for the purpose of our country men to carry on the search for the truth and develop fearlessness. While he sat down, he got a dominant thought to his mind. If we can rise above our own personal hardships and decide to work for a larger cause, then there will be a natural elevation of our minds. We should all work together to achieve the mission of the Unity if Minds to preserve the invaluable freedom that our noble leaders earned for us and to reach greater heights in the future.

Book Back Questions

1. What are the greatest strengths of Indian heritage and tradition?

According to Abdul Kalam, the greatest strength of Indian heritage and tradition is the spirit of unity and sacrifice. India achieved freedom because many leaders and people worked together with a strong vision. Our independence was the result of supreme sacrifice and a vision-driven movement. The freedom struggle started around 1857 and continued for nearly 90 years. Another strength is the idea of truth and fearlessness taught by Mahatma Gandhi at Sabarmati Ashram. Kalam says that when people rise above personal hardships and work for a larger cause, their minds get elevated. Thus, unity of minds, dedication, and working for the nation are the great strengths of Indian tradition.

2. Why do we need role models?

We need role models because they guide us towards great goals and inspire us to work with determination. Abdul Kalam explains that India’s freedom was achieved through the sacrifice and vision of many great leaders. These leaders became role models for the people. Their strong vision created a movement for independence. Similarly, to transform India into a developed nation, we must follow the path shown by such leaders. Role models teach us to rise above personal hardships and work for a larger cause. They help us develop courage, fearlessness, and a unified mindset. Therefore, role models are important to preserve our freedom and to reach greater heights in the future.

3. What are the things we must learn to elevate our minds?

Abdul Kalam says that to elevate our minds, we must rise above our personal hardships and work for a larger cause. He got this thought during his visit to Sabarmati Ashram, which was established by Mahatma Gandhi to search for truth and develop fearlessness. Kalam believes that when we decide to serve the nation instead of focusing only on ourselves, our minds naturally become stronger and higher. We should also work together in unity to preserve the freedom earned by our leaders. Thus, selflessness, truth, fearlessness, and unity of minds are the key things we must learn for mental elevation.

4. Critically analyse the lesson.

The lesson “Unity of Minds” is an inspiring speech by Abdul Kalam on the anniversary of India’s independence. He speaks about two important visions for the country. The first vision is the freedom movement, which was born around 1857 and achieved through 90 years of struggle and sacrifice. The second vision is to transform India into a fully developed nation by improving agriculture, education, health care, infrastructure, and technology. He also shares his visit to Sabarmati Ashram, where he learned the value of truth and fearlessness. The lesson teaches that unity, sacrifice, and working for a greater cause are necessary for India’s progress.

5. What according to Abdul Kalam is the second vision?

According to Abdul Kalam, the second vision is to transform India from a developing country into a fully developed nation. This vision requires integrated actions in important areas like agriculture, food processing, education, health care, and infrastructure development. It also includes the growth of power, communication, information technology, and critical technologies. The aim of this vision is to remove poverty, illiteracy, and unemployment. Kalam says that when the minds of the people are unified and focused on this goal, India can achieve a happy and prosperous life for a billion people. This development vision is the chief goal for the nation’s future.