PM says "Abdul Kalam was inspiration for South Asia young generation"

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has expressed deep shock at the death of former Indian President Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, terming him as a force of inspiration for the young generation of South Asia.

In a condolence message sent to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Sheikh Hasina said: "We are deeply shocked at the sad demise of one of the most famous sons of India and a great scientific mind of his time. He was highly respected in Bangladesh as well."

"In President Kalam, we saw the rare combination of a great statesman, an acclaimed scientist and a gifted writer. His invaluable contribution to India's rise in the sphere of science and technology would be remembered forever by all," she said.

The Prime Minister said Dr Kalam was a force of inspiration for the young generation of South Asia, someone who gave wings to their hidden dreams. "His passing away is an irreparable loss to India and beyond," she said.

On behalf of the government and the people of Bangladesh and on her own behalf, Sheikh Hasina expressed heartfelt sympathy and condolences to the government and the mourning people of India and to members of the bereaved family and prayed for eternal peace of the departed soul.

Dr Kalam, a space scientist who was considered the chief architect of India's missile programme, passed away after suffering a massive heart attack in Shillong on Monday afternoon at the age of 84.