Mandya (Karnataka), May 11 – Padma Shri awardee and former Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Subbanna Ayyappan, was found dead in the Cauvery river near Srirangapatna, according to police sources on Saturday.
The body of the 70-year-old renowned agricultural and aquaculture scientist was discovered floating in the river by locals, who promptly alerted authorities. Law enforcement officials retrieved the body and launched an investigation into the incident.
Police reported that Ayyappan's two-wheeler was found abandoned near the riverbank, raising suspicions that he may have taken his own life. However, officials emphasized that only a thorough investigation would confirm the exact cause of death.
A resident of Vishweshwara Nagar Industrial Area in Mysuru, Ayyappan had been reported missing by his family on May 7. The complaint was filed at the Vidyaranyapuram Police Station.
Police further noted that Ayyappan was known to frequently visit the Saibaba Ashram on the banks of the Cauvery for meditation.
Subbanna Ayyappan was a pioneering figure in India’s agricultural and aquaculture sectors and holds the distinction of being the first non-crop scientist to lead the ICAR. He played a significant role in advancing the country’s Blue Revolution, boosting fish production and aquaculture development.
He is survived by his wife and two daughters.
