Body of Padma Shri recipient scientist Subbanna Ayyappan, missing since May 7, found in Cauvery river

Mysuru: Well-known agricultural scientist and Padma Shri awardee Dr Subbanna Ayyappan, who had been missing since May 7, was found dead under mysterious circumstances in the Cauvery river near Sai Ashram here on Saturday evening, police said.

The 70-year-old scientist, a resident of Vishweshwara Nagar industrial area in Mysuru, was last seen leaving his home earlier last week. According to police, his scooter was discovered abandoned on the riverbank, prompting a search operation.

The police received information about the presence of an unidentified body in the river and, upon retrieval, it was confirmed that it was of Dr Ayyappan. He is survived by his wife and two daughters.

A case has been registered, and investigations are underway to ascertain the cause of death.

Dr Subbanna Ayyappan, born on December 10, 1955, in Yelandur, Karnataka, was a pioneering fisheries scientist known as a key architect of India’s 'Blue Revolution'.

After receiving degrees in fisheries science and a PhD from the University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru, he introduced transformative aquaculture practices that enhanced food security and rural livelihoods.

He held prominent roles including Director of CIFA and CIFE, founding CEO of NFDB, and Secretary of DARE. Honoured with the Padma Shri in 2022, he later served as Vice-Chancellor of CAU, Imphal, and chaired the NABL, continuing his contributions to science and agriculture.