One measure taken to prevent famine-related deaths by the Indian state is the expansion of irrigation. However, the improvement of means of transportation is not a measure taken by the Indian state to address famine-related deaths.

1. Expansion of Irrigation:
- The Indian state has recognized that a lack of water for agriculture can contribute to famine conditions. Therefore, one measure taken is the expansion of irrigation systems to ensure adequate water supply for agricultural activities.
- This measure involves the construction of canals, dams, and reservoirs to store and distribute water for irrigation purposes. It aims to increase the agricultural productivity and reduce the vulnerability of crops to droughts.
- By expanding irrigation, the Indian state aims to enhance food production and reduce the risk of famine-related deaths by ensuring a stable and reliable water supply for farming activities.

2. Improvement of Means of Transportation:
- Although the improvement of means of transportation is crucial for various aspects of economic development, it is not directly linked to preventing famine-related deaths.
- Famine-related deaths are primarily caused by a lack of access to food and inadequate distribution of available resources during periods of scarcity.
- While improving transportation infrastructure can facilitate the movement of food and resources, it is not a direct measure to address the root causes of famine and prevent related deaths.
- However, efficient transportation systems can indirectly contribute to famine prevention by enabling the timely distribution of relief supplies during emergencies.

In conclusion, the expansion of irrigation is a measure taken by the Indian state to prevent famine-related deaths. On the other hand, the improvement of means of transportation is not directly linked to addressing famine-related deaths but can indirectly contribute to famine prevention by facilitating the distribution of relief supplies.