International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics

The government in Orissa is determined to reduce the infant and maternal mortality rates in the Indian state.

In order to tackle the problem, 561 newborn care units will be installed in rural hospitals to try and improve pre- and post-pregnancy care, reports the Orissa Diary.

Chief minister Naveen Patnaik made the announcement following a review meeting on healthcare in the state earlier this week.

Some 140 hospitals will also be upgraded, with new staff quarters for doctors and other healthcare employees being constructed in 423 locations around the state.

Mr Patnaik said: "140 hospitals in rural areas will be upgraded to perform complicated deliveries."

According to the CIA World Factbook, the infant mortality rate in India in 2010 is 50.78 per 1,000 live births.

This was higher than the rate in 2009 and means India ranks 51st for infant mortality in the world.

Posted by Alexandra George