Sasraya News ★ Shillong, Meghalaya: A special book release ceremony was held in Shillong on the occasion of the 11th Remembrance Day of former President of India and Missile Man Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, where the book ‘Naman’, authored by Falguni Chakraborty, was formally released in the presence of distinguished guests and dignitaries. The programme was organised by the Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Foundation, Meghalaya Unit, on 19 September 2026 (Saturday) at the Sri Aurobindo Institute of Indian Culture Auditorium, Bivar Road, Shillong, Meghalaya.
The event included a Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Award Ceremony, prize distribution and book release programme, bringing together people associated with the Foundation and distinguished personalities from different fields. The chief guest at the programme was Air Commodore Abhay Arun Phansalkar, VM, of the Eastern Air Command, Upper Shillong. Shri Silvester Phanbuh, Assistant Commissioner, East Khasi Hills District, Shillong, attended the programme as the Guest of Honour.
One of the major highlights of the programme was the release of ‘Naman’, a book written by Falguni Chakraborty, who is associated with the Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Foundation as the State President of its Meghalaya Chapter.
The book has been dedicated to the Indian soldiers, paying tribute to the men and women of the armed forces who serve the nation and protect the country. Through the title ‘Naman’, meaning an expression of respect and homage, the book seeks to reflect a sense of gratitude towards the soldiers and their service to the nation. The formal release of the book took place in the presence of the chief guest, the Guest of Honour and other dignitaries and members associated with the programme. The occasion provided a significant platform for combining literature, public recognition and a tribute to the armed forces.
The programme was particularly significant as it was organised in remembrance of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, one of India’s most respected scientists and former Presidents. Dr. Kalam was widely admired for his contribution to India’s space and defence programmes and for his efforts to inspire young people through his vision of a developed and self-reliant India.
The Foundation’s remembrance programme therefore carried a broader message of patriotism, service, education and social responsibility. The release of a book dedicated to Indian soldiers added another dimension to the occasion, highlighting the contribution and sacrifice of the country’s armed forces.
Along with the book release, the programme also featured the Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Award Ceremony and Prize Distribution, through which individuals were recognised for their contributions and achievements.
According to the programme invitation, Dr. Ashwini Kumar attended in the capacity of President of the Foundation, while Abdul Kalique was identified as the Founder and Secretary. Falguni Chakraborty was identified as the State President of the Meghalaya Unit.
The event at Shillong also reflected the Foundation’s efforts to keep the ideals and legacy of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam alive through activities involving recognition, literature and social engagement.
For Falguni Chakraborty, the release of ‘Naman’ at an event dedicated to the memory of Dr. Kalam was a significant occasion. The book’s dedication to Indian soldiers connects the literary work with a wider expression of respect for those serving the nation.
The presence of senior officials and distinguished guests, including Air Commodore Abhay Arun Phansalkar, VM, and Shri Silvester Phanbuh, added importance to the programme. The participation of members of the Foundation and other invitees further contributed to the ceremonial significance of the book release. The Shillong programme thus brought together three important themes—remembrance of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, recognition of achievement and respect for the Indian armed forces. The release of ‘Naman’ became one of the key moments of the event, with the book being presented as a literary tribute to India’s soldiers.
The occasion also highlighted the continuing relevance of Dr. Kalam’s message of dedication, patriotism, education and service to the nation. Through such programmes and literary initiatives, the organisers sought to remember his contribution while encouraging values of responsibility and national service among society and the younger generation.
Sasraya News extends its best wishes to author Falguni Chakraborty on the publication of ‘Naman’ and hopes that the book’s tribute to the Indian soldiers reaches a wider readership.
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