World’s oldest mother, 74, says giving birth to her daughter, now five, has kept her living longer because she’s determined to live to see her marry

Naveen, five, hugs her 75-year-old mother, Rajo Devi Lohan, at their home in the remote village of Hissar, India. Rajo says that having her daughter has helped her live longer

When Rajo Devi Lohan made headlines around the world by becoming the world's oldest first-time mother, critics said she was putting her health at risk and condemning her daughter to the agony of losing her parents at a young age.

She gave birth, following controversial IVF treatment, at the age of 69, then nearly died from complications with the delivery.

But now, five years later, the 74-year-old says having her daughter, Naveen, has made her stronger and helped her live longer.

Following her bout of ill health, the frail mother believes her desire of seeing her little one marry is giving her the strength to fight on and live to see the special day.

Rajo, who lives in the remote village of Hissar, India, with Naveen, her husband Ballo and his second, younger wife Umi, said: 'The only reason I am still alive in spite of my illness is Naveen. She is a gift to me from God and until I get her married I cannot afford to die.

'I will get her married when she turns 15-years-old, but until then I simply cannot die.'