Hokato Hotozhe Sema, a para-athlete from Nagaland, has made history by winning the Bronze Medal in the Men’s F57 Shot Put event at the Paris Paralympics 2024. This achievement has brought immense pride to the state and inspired para-athletes across the nation.
The Nagaland State Disability Forum has congratulated Sema on his remarkable feat, highlighting the immense potential of persons with disabilities (PwDs) in sports. Throughout Nagaland, many PwDs are actively participating in various para-sport events, with several individuals excelling and winning medals at zonal and national levels. However, the Forum also pointed out the significant challenges faced by the disabled community in sports.
Despite their achievements, para-athletes in Nagaland face numerous hurdles, including a lack of specific programmes for para-sports, inadequate accessible infrastructure, and limited support for disabled sportspersons to pursue their dreams. The Nagaland State Disability Forum has appealed to the State Government and society at large to recognise and support para-athletes by creating a structured mechanism for identifying, nurturing, and rewarding PwDs excelling in sports.
Also Read: Nagaland’s Hokato Hotozhe Sema clinches historic Paralympic Bronze, rewarded with ₹1.5 Crore
With proper infrastructure, funding assistance, and training facilities, the Forum believes that more individuals with disabilities can shine on the international stage, just like Hokato Hotozhe Sema. This support would not only benefit the athletes but also contribute to the broader societal inclusion of people with disabilities.
The community’s call for better support is a crucial step towards fostering an environment where para-athletes can thrive. By addressing these challenges, Nagaland can unlock the full potential of its para-athletes, ensuring they receive the recognition and resources they deserve to excel in their respective sports. This initiative would not only boost the morale of para-athletes but also inspire a new generation of athletes with disabilities to pursue their sporting dreams.
