Gayatri’s Suicide: From Applause to Silence, The Unanswered Question

In our earlier report, we highlighted the heartbreaking case of Ms. B. Gayatri, Agriculture Extension Officer (2019 batch, Chityal Branch, Hyderabad Circle), who allegedly ended her life due to unbearable work pressure.

Now, bankers are left asking a painful question: How could an officer who had achieved so much, be pushed to such an end?

Gayatri’s Recognised Achievements
Just a year before her tragic death, Gayatri was officially applauded by Canara Bank’s Kurnool Regional Office. Along with the Belagal Branch Manager, she was credited with bringing ₹6 crores of net addition in agriculture business within just 20 days.

Her name was proudly highlighted in a circular dated June 28, 2023, issued by the Regional Office, recognising her sincerity and commitment to agriculture lending.
Image: Gayatri receiving award for her achievement. 

The Contradiction for Agriculture Officers
According to the bank employees, while Gayatri was celebrated on paper, her tragic death exposes the deeper reality of Agriculture Officers (AOs) in public sector banks:

If an officer who delivered ₹6 crores in just 20 days could not withstand the work pressure, what hope remains for others in the cadre?

Struggles Beyond One Case
According to the bankers, Agriculture Officers across banks continue to bear the brunt of unrealistic expectations without adequate support. They remain the face of banking in rural India, connecting farmers to formal credit and financial inclusion. Yet their dignity, mental health, and well-being are often side-lined in the chase for numbers.

A Symbol of Both Achievement and Struggle
Gayatri’s achievements remind us of the potential and promise young officers bring. But her tragic death serves as a grim reminder that no target is worth a life. Until systemic reforms address the workload and dignity of Agriculture Officers, her story will remain an unanswered question for the banking system.