Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

DATE=7/18/02

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE=INDIA/PRESIDENT

NUMBER=2-292164

BYLINE=ANJANA PASRICHA

DATELINE=NEW DELHI

CONTENT=

INTRO: A former top scientist in the Indian government's nuclear and missile program has been elected the country's new president. A-P-J Abdul Kalam, will occupy a largely ceremonial post -- but his epic journey from a tiny fishing village to the country's presidential palace has evoked wide interest in India.

TEXT: Mr. Kalam began his life in a middle class Muslim family in Rameswaram village in Southern India -- far from New Delhi's corridors of power. His father was illiterate, and made a living renting boats to fishermen -- but ensured that his son received a college education.

Mr. Kalam chose a career dedicated to building missiles, and rose to be a frontranking scientist in India's nuclear progam. He became widely known as the "missile man."

He was teaching in a university away from the public spotlight, when he was was pitchforked into politics just a few weeks ago.

The reason was unusual. Bickering mainstream political parties could not agree to a consensus candidate for the post from the usual pick of senior politicians -- so they turned to Mr. Kalam as their choice for president. A surprised Mr. Kalam accepted the offer.

The nation was equally surprised. Some describe the choice as "odd", others call it a tribute to contribution professional Indians have made to the country. Almost all agree that Mr. Kalam, who passionately emphasizes the need for integrity and values, will give the murky world of politics some new color.

After his victory in the presidential election was announced, Mr. Kalam said India needs a "second vision."

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India has to be transformed into a developed nation in 20 years time. What does it mean? This I will work for it. It means a poverty free nation, a prosperours nation, and healthy nation, with value system.

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Mr. Kalam likes to call himself a true citizen of India. Although a muslim, he is wellversed with Hindu scriptures. He is a bachelor, with a repuation for working tirelessly.

Mr. Kalam says the choice of a missile scientist as president is a symbol of India's desire to use technology for the development of the nation.

In recent weeks, there has been intense media attention on the new president's appearance -- more typical of a scientist than a president. Many say his shoulder length, silver grey hair, his casual dress and sandals will be at odds in the grandeur of the presidential palace. Others feel it may give it refreshing informality.

Critics also say his lack of political experience could be an impedment in carrying out the job, which sometimes involves sensitive political decisions in an era of fractured electoral verdicts and coaltion governments.

But virtually everyone agrees -- the Indian presidency could be more unpredictable and interesting than it has ever been in the past.

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Mr. Kalam -- elected by a electoral college of lawmakers, won nearly 90 percent of the vote. He will the country's third muslim president. Analysts say the ruling Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata party proposed his name as president to silence criticism that the party is anti-muslim. He will be sworn-in next Wednesday. (signed)

NEB/AP/KBK