This is a symbolic illustrative image created for news presentation only. It does not show any real person, place, or actual incident scene. Any resemblance is purely coincidental, and the graphic is used only to represent the general theme of agrarian financial distress.
Cherupuzha, Kerala, February 15, 2026 — The farming community in Idavaram, Cherupuzha, is mourning the loss of Ambattu Elias, a 62-year-old award-winning cultivator, who passed away after being found in a critical condition at his farm. Despite being rushed to a private hospital, he could not recover.
Preliminary information suggests that Elias had been under sustained financial strain, with mounting liabilities and poor income returns from recent crop yields contributing to his distress. Local residents noted that fluctuating market prices and rising input costs had eroded earnings, while the latest harvest failed to generate sufficient revenue to meet outstanding dues.
Elias, who had dedicated nearly four decades to vegetable cultivation on leased land across Kannur and Kasaragod, had recently expanded his efforts by planting around 2,500 banana saplings. Neighbours described him as hardworking and progressive, often experimenting with improved cultivation methods and encouraging others to adopt better practices.
Police have initiated standard inquest proceedings and are examining the financial background and related circumstances. Agricultural workers’ groups say the incident underscores the vulnerability of small and mid-level farmers when crop returns fail to keep pace with investments and debt obligations.
Community leaders have urged authorities to strengthen financial counselling and timely support systems for cultivators facing debt stress. Local volunteers have also extended informal counselling assistance to Elias’s family.
