From Daijiworld's special correspondent in Panaji

Panaji, May 14: Around 20,000 mothers continued their routine to yet another depressingly monotonous day in rural Goa, while urban Goa celebrated Mother's Day with much fanfare.

Parties and special functions were held at various places in the state including five star resorts

But few kilometres away in rural Goa, mothers kept struggling for the emotional and livelihood support. "From 300 elderly women we visit every week, 100 ail from various diseases..... 40 per cent suffer from hypertension," stated Sarita Patil, social worker, Helpage India, an non-government organization working amongst rural women.

Social factors clubbed with the economic tensions have made these mothers a permanent sufferers. "Except state government's pension under dayanand social security scheme (DSSS), no other benefit percolates to these around 20,000 needy women," said Sarita.

Figures revealed by Helpage India are eye-openers of the state in this coastal state. "Nearly 30 per cent of rural women in Goa need medical attention especially mental health," she says.

Goa government has huge claims by their side to paint a rosy picture of the state. "We are putting our efforts.... There are several schemes for them.. Women between 18 to 60 years of age can take benefit from it," stated social welfare minister subhash shirodkar.

But the scene in rural Sattari, Sanguem, Quepem and Canacona taluka remains far away from the rosy picture painted about this state with highest per capita income.

"After marriage, children tend to neglect their parents. Either they are isolated or separated," stated Soiru Velip, a journalist, working amongst the tribal population in Goa.

In many cases, an old lady can mend her livelihood only because of the help from the neighbours. "The lady cooks rice and she gets curry from the neighbours.. You go to few places and you will notice extreme penury," Sarita said.