LUCKNOW, Dec. 30 -- As many as 71 sheep died and about 20 others fell ill in Ghaila village along Hardoi road allegedly due to food poisoning, officials said on Monday. The incident came to light early in the morning when locals noticed several sheep lying motionless. Preliminary information suggested the animals may have consumed leftover or spoiled food, after which their health deteriorated, stated officials. Taking cognisance, chief minister Yogi Adityanath ordered an inquiry into the incident and announced a financial assistance of Rs 10,000 per sheep. According to the animal husbandry department, three veterinary teams were sent to the area to manage the situation and provide treatment to the animals. "The sheep started dying around 11pm on Sunday," sheep rearer Pradeep Kumar said. Chief veterinary officer Dr Suresh Verma said the exact cause of death will be confirmed only after post-mortem examination reports are received. "It seems excessive gas formation was the cause of death," added Dr Brijesh Kr Singh, veterinary officer, Kakori. HTC...