THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Agriculture University Planning Director Dr Ani S Das (59) died after collapsing during a live TV program, initially believed to be a heart attack. The incident occurred at the Kudappanakunnu Doordarshan center at 6 pm during a program hosted by Dr Shahul Hameed. Within 10 minutes of starting, Dr Das fell from his chair while answering the first question. He was immediately taken to the Medical College Hospital but died.

Dr Das held various leadership roles including Managing Director at Kerala Feeds, KLD Board, Kerala Poultry Development Corporation and Kerala Meat Products. He served as an Associate Professor at Kerala Agricultural University, Thrissur and was the Executive Director at the Center for Bio Resources and Agricultural Services.

Originally from Kollam Kadaykkal, he resided in Ernakulam Tripunithara with his wife, Dr. Viji, a Professor of Pharmacy Medicine at Ernakulam Medical College and daughter Nikhitha in Bangalore. His body is at the Medical College Hospital. Dr Das, educated in Germany earned his PhD in Veterinary Medicine from Kerala Veterinary and Animal Science University, Wayanad.