Indian President Sworn In
A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, a missile scientist who advocates nuclear weapons as a war deterrent, was sworn in as India’s president Thursday.
In his acceptance speech, Kalam said India should brace itself to face the growing threats posed by terrorism, internal conflicts and unemployment.
Kalam was elected July 18. Both the Hindu nationalist-led governing coalition and the major opposition Congress Party had backed the 70-year-old military scientist, who has embraced the Hindu beliefs of India’s majority even though he is a Muslim by birth.
He was part of the team that conducted five underground nuclear tests in May 1998 that triggered global criticism, economic sanctions and matching tests by neighboring Pakistan.
Despite his ceremonial post, the president can play a crucial role. He can call elections or choose a party to form a government.
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