Dr Kalam’s funny guys

Narayanan of Air headquarters briefed us that India was now not receiving spares for SAM-2.Many missiles were not operational, and the defence of the cities was compromised.We were asked to make a feasibility report in three months for indigenizing the SAM-2.After many interactions within India, we submitted our report to Director DRDL that it was feasible to indigenize about 70-80% of the missile.Balance items could be obtained from alternate supply sources.The Director told me to reduce the estimated funds, time and workforce by 50% to get the project sanctioned.I refused, and the report was rejected.However, it was forwarded, without any change, to Delhi in 1969.There was no response.In 1970, I joined ME (Aero-