An award-winning farmer from Cherupuzha in Kannur district of Kerala died on Sunday (Februaty 15, 2026) in an alleged suicide after reportedly consuming pesticide.
Elias Ambatt, a native of Idavarambu in Kannur, had been undergoing treatment for the past few days after he was found unconscious on his farm. According to relatives and local residents, Mr. Ambatt had allegedly consumed pesticide four days ago and was immediately rushed to hospital. Despite intensive treatment, his life could not be saved.
Mr. Ambatt was known for cultivating vegetables and bananas on leased land, often taking over fallow plots and converting them into productive farms. He had won the Chief Minister’s award for best vegetable farmer and was widely regarded as a model cultivator in the hilly village.
Delay in subsidy
Family members said he had been facing severe financial distress following poor harvests in recent seasons. He had reportedly taken loans from banks and individuals to sustain cultivation, but struggled with repayment. Delays in receiving government subsidies further compounded his difficulties, they alleged.
Relatives claimed that a subsidy amounting to ₹1.14 lakh was sanctioned only after he was admitted to the hospital and said timely disbursal could have eased his financial burden. They also alleged that certain eligible benefits for farmers had not reached him.
Locals described Mr. Ambatt as a hard-working farmer who set an example by bringing uncultivated land under farming. His death has sent shockwaves across farming community in Cherupuzha.
The incident comes at a time when the State government has been highlighting its welfare measures for farmers. With the Assembly elections approaching, his death is likely to trigger political debate as opposition parties are expected to question the effectiveness of agricultural support system in the State.
(Suicide prevention helpline: DISHA – 1056, 0471-2552056)
Published – February 15, 2026 05:16 pm IST
