Padma Shri awardee Dr Subbanna Ayyappan found dead under mysterious circumstances

Renowned agricultural scientist and Padma Shri awardee Dr Subbanna Ayyappan was found dead under unclear circumstances on May 10 in Srirangapatna, Karnataka. His body was discovered in the River Cauvery near Sai Ashram after he was reported missing from Mysuru, where he lived with his wife, on May 7. His scooter was later found abandoned on the riverbank, raising further questions. The Srirangapatna Police have registered a case and launched an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of his death.

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Dr Ayyappan, born in 1955 in Karnataka’s Chamarajanagar district, was a pioneering figure in India’s fisheries sector. Widely recognized as the principle architect of India’s Blue Revolution, he introduced innovative fish farming practices that revolutionized aquaculture in the country. His efforts greatly enhanced fish productivity in both coastal and inland regions, improving rural livelihoods and strengthening India's food systems. He was honored with the Padma Shri in 2022 for his outstanding contributions.

Over his decades-long career, Dr Ayyappan held several key roles, including Director of CIFA, CIFE, and founding CEO of the NFDB. He also served as the Secretary of DARE and Vice-Chancellor of CAU, Imphal. In recent years, he chaired the NABL. He is survived by his wife and two daughters.