What Happened to Padma Shri Awardee Subbanna Ayyappan?
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Synopsis
The mysterious death of Padma Shri awardee Dr. Subbanna Ayyappan has raised questions. As the first non-crop scientist to lead ICAR, Ayyappan's contributions were immense. His body was found in the Cauvery River, and the police are investigating the circumstances surrounding his death. What led to this tragic incident?
Key Takeaways
- Investigation ongoing into Dr. Ayyappan's suspicious death.
- Ayyappan was a pioneering figure in Indian aquaculture.
- His contributions significantly impacted the Blue Revolution.
- Body found in the Cauvery River raises concerns about mental health.
- Authorities urge thorough investigation to uncover the truth.
Bengaluru, May 11 (NationPress) The Karnataka Police have initiated an inquiry into the suspicious demise of Padma Shri awardee Dr. Subbanna Ayyappan, who holds the distinction of being the first non-crop scientist to lead the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), officials reported on Sunday.
The 70-year-old Ayyappan, a renowned aquaculture scientist and a pivotal figure in India’s Blue Revolution, was discovered deceased under enigmatic circumstances. His decomposed body was located in the Cauvery River close to Srirangapatna town in Mandya district on Saturday. He had been reported missing since May 7, after leaving his residence as per his usual routine.
As per police reports, Ayyappan's scooter was found abandoned on the riverbank. The Srirangapatna police, who are managing the investigation, noted that a missing person report had been lodged earlier by his family at the Vidyaranyapuram police station in Mysuru.
Initial inquiries imply that Ayyappan might have entered the river near the Sai Baba Ashram in Srirangapatna. His body has been dispatched for a post-mortem examination, with police awaiting the findings.
Family and friends informed authorities that Ayyappan frequently visited the banks of the Cauvery River for meditation. He was also a regular attendee at the Ramakrishna Ashram in Mysuru. His body was retrieved following a tip-off from the public regarding a floating body in the river, which was subsequently identified as Ayyappan.
While initial findings lean towards a potential suicide, police have indicated that the definitive cause of death will be established only after a comprehensive investigation. Ayyappan is survived by his wife, two daughters, and a son-in-law.
Dr. Ayyappan led ICAR until 2016. He was awarded the Karnataka Rajyotsava Award in 2013, and in acknowledgment of his scientific contributions, he was honored with the Padma Shri by the Government of India in 2022.
An expert in agriculture and fisheries (aquaculture), Ayyappan worked across various cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bhopal, Barrackpore, Bhubaneswar, and Bengaluru. He held the position of Director at both the Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (CIFA) in Bhubaneswar and the Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE) in Mumbai.
Ayyappan played a crucial role in propelling India’s Blue Revolution and was instrumental in establishing and nurturing multiple institutions. He also served as Vice-Chancellor of the Central Agricultural University (CAU) in Imphal.
Point of View
It is imperative to approach this situation with a sense of responsibility and thoroughness. The investigation by the Karnataka Police must be conducted with utmost transparency and diligence. Ayyappan’s contributions to science and aquaculture are undeniable, and as a nation, we owe it to him and his family to seek the truth in this unfortunate incident.
NationPress
26/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Subbanna Ayyappan?
Dr. Subbanna Ayyappan was a renowned aquaculture scientist and Padma Shri awardee, known for leading the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) as the first non-crop scientist.
What led to the investigation by the Karnataka Police?
The Karnataka Police launched an investigation following the suspicious circumstances surrounding Ayyappan's death, which was reported after his body was found in the Cauvery River.
What are the initial findings regarding his death?
Preliminary investigations suggest a possible suicide, but the police are awaiting a post-mortem report to determine the exact cause of death.
What contributions did Ayyappan make to aquaculture?
Ayyappan played a significant role in India's Blue Revolution and was instrumental in establishing several institutions that advanced aquaculture research and education.
What honors did Dr. Ayyappan receive?
He was awarded the Karnataka Rajyotsava Award in 2013 and the Padma Shri by the Government of India in 2022 for his exceptional contributions to science.
