
Scientist and Padma Shri awardee Subbanna Ayyappan found dead
It is with great shock and sadness that we report the untimely demise of renowned agricultural scientist and Padma Shri awardee Subbanna Ayyappan. The 70-year-old scientist was found dead in the Cauvery River near Srirangapatna in the Mandya district of Karnataka, approximately 20 kilometers away from Mysuru, on Saturday, May 11.
According to Mandya SP Mallikarjun Baladandi, the locals informed the police control room after they found a body floating in the Cauvery River. The police immediately rushed to the spot and retrieved the body, which was later identified as that of Subbanna Ayyappan.
Subbanna Ayyappan was a highly respected figure in the scientific community, particularly in the field of agriculture. He was a Padma Shri awardee, a prestigious civilian honor conferred by the Government of India, for his outstanding contributions to Indian agriculture. Throughout his illustrious career, Ayyappan worked tirelessly to improve agricultural practices and increase crop yields in the country.
Ayyappan’s research and innovations had a significant impact on Indian agriculture, particularly in the areas of soil science, plant breeding, and crop management. He was a pioneer in the development of new crop varieties and his work on soil conservation and management helped to improve the productivity of Indian farmlands.
Born in 1952, Ayyappan pursued his education in agriculture from the University of Mysore and later earned his Ph.D. from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) in New Delhi. He began his career as a scientist at the University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS) in Bangalore and later became the Director of the UAS, Dharwad.
Ayyappan’s contributions to Indian agriculture were not limited to his research and innovations alone. He was also an ardent advocate for farmers’ welfare and worked closely with farmers to improve their livelihoods. He was a strong proponent of sustainable agriculture practices and was instrumental in promoting organic farming in Karnataka.
The agricultural community in India is mourning the loss of this brilliant scientist and Padma Shri awardee. His sudden and untimely demise has sent shockwaves across the country, with tributes pouring in from fellow scientists, farmers, and admirers alike.
The exact circumstances surrounding Ayyappan’s death are still unclear, and an investigation is underway to determine the cause of his demise. The police have launched a probe into the matter, and an autopsy is expected to be conducted soon.
As the nation mourns the loss of this outstanding scientist, we remember his contributions to Indian agriculture and the impact he had on the lives of millions of farmers and their families. Subbanna Ayyappan’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of scientists and farmers, and his work will always be remembered as a testament to his dedication and commitment to improving Indian agriculture.
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