Padma Shri Scientist Subbanna Ayyappan Found Dead in Cauvery River
Dr. Subbanna Ayyappan, a pioneering aquaculture scientist and recipient of the Padma Shri award, was found dead in the Cauvery River near Srirangapatna, Karnataka, on May 10, 2025. He had been missing since May 7, when he left his home in Mysuru without his mobile phone. His scooter was later discovered near Sai Ashram, a spiritual retreat he was known to frequent.
Authorities retrieved his body after it was spotted in the river by local residents. The body was reportedly in a decomposed state, and while initial indications suggest suicide, the exact cause of death is yet to be confirmed pending a detailed investigation.
A Stalwart of India’s Blue Revolution
Dr. Ayyappan was widely regarded as one of the leading figures behind India’s Blue Revolution, which transformed the country’s aquaculture and fisheries sector. His efforts were instrumental in scaling up fish production and promoting sustainable inland aquaculture practices.
He was the first non-crop scientist to serve as Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), breaking traditional hierarchies in India’s agricultural research institutions. Over his long and illustrious career, he held various influential roles, including Director of the Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (CIFA), Director of the Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE), and founding CEO of the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB).
In recognition of his extraordinary contributions to science, research, and rural development, Dr. Ayyappan was awarded the Padma Shri in 2022.
Mourning a National Loss
The news of his death has shocked the scientific community. Tributes have poured in from across the country, with several institutions acknowledging his groundbreaking work in fisheries and agricultural innovation. The Indian Council of Agricultural Research expressed deep grief, describing him as a visionary who modernized the aquaculture landscape of India.
Dr. Ayyappan was also the chairman of the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL), where he played a key role in upholding standards in quality certification and laboratory processes.
He is survived by his wife and two daughters. The circumstances surrounding his death have left many colleagues and admirers saddened, with calls for a thorough and respectful investigation into the incident.
India has lost not just a scientist, but a path-breaking leader who shaped policy, research, and livelihoods in ways that will resonate for generations.
