Agricultural scientist R Heli passes away

Alappuzha: Noted Agricultural scientist and former director of agricultural department R Heli passed away here on Sunday. He breathed his last at the residence of his daughter here.

Heli retired as director of the agricultural department in 1989. As a pioneer of farm journalism in Kerala, he contributed a lot to promote agriculture through ‘Kerala Karshakan’, the mouthpiece of the agriculture department.

He implemented many practical guidelines in the agriculture sector.

He took effort for agriculture-related programmes like ‘Nattinppuram’ in Doordarshan and ‘Vayalum Veedum’ in Akashvani.

R Heli is one among the early writers who penned articles in ‘Karshikarangam’, the column dedicated for agriculture in Mathrubhumi daily.

He is survived by wife Dr Susheela, son Prasanth and daughter Dr Poornima.

His last rites will be performed at his residence in Attingal on Sunday at 5 pm.