Bhubaneswar, November 2: The recent death of two women in Mandipanka village under Kandhamal district have been attributed to food poisoning, said Odisha Health Department.
The victims, part of the Gadapur panchayat in Daringbadi block, fell ill after consuming fermented rice ('pakhaal') and mango kernel gruel, a part of their regular diet.
The incident came to light on October 30.
On November 1, local health and district officials launched an investigation and transferred all the affected individuals to nearby healthcare facilities.
While receiving treatment at MKCG Medical College in Berhampur, Ramita Patmajhi and Runu Majhi passed away. Six other patients are currently receiving treatment.
In this connection, the Odisha government on Friday ordered a departmental probe into the death of two women due to suspected food poisoning after consuming mango kernel gruel, locally called 'takua jau', in Kandhamal district.
The Health Department stated that all 69 families in Mandipanka village are beneficiaries under the National Food Security Act (NFSA) and receive regular rice supplies.
Anganwadi Centers and ASHA workers, routinely educate locals on health and hygiene, said official
In response to the tragedy, health teams and Anganwadi workers have intensified awareness campaigns on food safety and hygiene across the region, supported by local self-help groups and panchayat representatives, informed an official
