Nagaland erupted in celebration as Hokato Hotozhe Sema secured a bronze medal in the Men’s Shot Put F57 event at the Paris Paralympic Games 2024. Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio announced a ₹1.5 crore cash reward for Sema, the state’s first Olympic medallist, whose achievement has put Nagaland in the global sporting spotlight and filled India with pride.
From Serving in the Army to Paralympic Champion
Sema’s journey to Paralympic glory is nothing short of remarkable. In 2002, while serving in the Indian Army, he lost his leg in a landmine blast during a counter-terrorism operation in Jammu & Kashmir. Undaunted by this life-altering incident, Sema took up shot put at 32. His dedication paid off, leading to several medals, including bronze at the China World Para Athletics Grand Prix and the Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, China in 2022.
Also Read: Hokato Hotozhe Sema qualifies for Paris Paralympics 2024
Nagaland Government’s Comprehensive Support
Chief Minister Rio outlined a series of measures to honour Sema’s accomplishments:
- Recommending Sema for the prestigious Arjuna Award to the Government of India.
- Pursuing Sema’s promotion with the Indian Army and the Ministry of Defence, considering his exceptional performances and gallant service.
- Implementing initiatives to promote sports in Sema’s name.
A Source of National Pride
Sema’s historic bronze at the Paris Paralympics 2024 has drawn congratulations from President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Nagaland Governor La Ganesan, and Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio. His achievement stands as a beacon of inspiration for athletes and individuals across the nation.
Chief Minister Rio expressed his elation, saying, “We’re proud & joyous for Mr. Hokato Hotozhe Sema on winning Bronze at the #ParalympicsGames in Shot Put event. He’s made India proud & Nagaland shine. Being the 1st Olympic Medallist from Nagaland, I’m happy to announce that the Nagaland Govt will extend a cash reward of ₹1.5Cr.“
He added, “Congratulations once again, Mr. Hokato Hotozhe Sema. You have made every Naga proud. May you continue to bring laurels to our people.”
As Sema’s extraordinary journey and historic achievement at the Paris Paralympics 2024 continue to inspire, Nagaland looks forward to nurturing future generations of athletes who will follow in his footsteps.
