The body of prominent agricultural expert and Padma Shri awardee Dr Subbanna Ayyappan, aged 70, was found in the Cauvery River near Sai Ashram in Srirangapatna on Saturday. The respected scientist had been reported missing from his residence in Vishweshwara Nagar Industrial Area, Mysuru, since May 7.

Local authorities were alerted to the presence of an unidentified body in the river that evening. Upon arrival, Srirangapatna police recovered the remains and later confirmed the identity as that of Dr Ayyappan. His scooter was also found abandoned on the riverbank, raising questions surrounding the circumstances of his death.

"The Srirangapatna police have registered a case and started an investigation into the reason for the death. The police received information about the sighting of an unidentified body in the river on Saturday evening. When they reached the spot and retrieved the body from the river, the scientist's identity was discovered," said Mandya Police.

Srirangapatna, Karnataka | Renowned agricultural scientist and Padma Shri awardee Dr. Subbanna Ayyappan (70), who was missing was found dead, his body found in the Cauvery river near Sai Ashram in Srirangapatna. He was living with his wife in Vishweshwara Nagar industrial area of…

— ANI (@ANI) May 13, 2025

Dr Ayyappan is survived by his wife and two daughters. Known for his pioneering work in the field of agriculture and fisheries, he had earned national recognition and numerous accolades throughout his distinguished career.