In a tragic incident, renowned agricultural and aquaculture scientist and Padma Shri awardee Dr. Subbanna Ayyappan was found dead in the Cauvery River near Srirangapatna, Karnataka. Local residents discovered his body floating in the river on Saturday, and authorities later confirmed his identity. Dr. Ayyappan, aged 70, was a pioneering figure in Indian fisheries science and notably became the first non-crop scientist to lead the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), leaving behind a legacy of significant contributions to sustainable aquaculture and rural development.
According to officials, Dr. Ayyappan’s two-wheeler was found abandoned near the riverbank, raising suspicions that he might have taken his own life, although the actual cause of death will be determined after a full investigation. His family had reported him missing on May 7 to the Vidyaranyapuram Police Station in Mysuru. Known for his spiritual discipline, he often meditated at the Saibaba Ashram situated by the banks of the Cauvery River—where his body was eventually found.
Dr. Ayyappan was a resident of the Vishweshwara Nagar Industrial Area in Mysuru and had inspired generations of scientists through his work in fisheries and agricultural research. As condolences pour in from across the scientific community and public figures, police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding his death. His passing is a great loss to Indian science, especially in the domains of agriculture, food security, and rural livelihoods.
