From his college roommate,

T. Sampathkumar, a college mate of late President, A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, urged the younger generation to safeguard Tamil language, for which the interest was declining, as wished by Kalam.

Tears rolling down his cheeks, the 84-year old Sampathkumar, residing at Saibaba Colony, said that Kalam, who was his roommate when they were studying in Tiruchirapalli, was keen that the younger generation respect and safeguard the language. Mr. Sampathkumar said that whenever Kalam visited the city he made it a point to visit him.

Puthiya Tamizhakam
Puthiya Tamizhakam President and MLA, K. Krishnasamy condoled the death of Kalam saying that in his death the people of India, particularly students and youth, have lost a friend, guide and philosopher.

TNAU
Students, faculty, university officers, Registrar and Vice-Chancellor of Tamil Nadu Agricultural University gathered at the university auditorium to condole the demise of former President Kalam. They recalled his contribution to the student community.

S. Mahimairaja, Dean (Agriculture), said that through his versatile personality, he disemminated his thoughts and deeds to empower the students.