Hokato Hotozhe Sema created history today by winning the bronze medal for India in the Men’s Shot Put F57 at the Paris Paralympic Games 2024. With this achievement, he has become the first athlete from Nagaland to win a medal at the Paralympic or the Olympic Games.
The India shot-putter threw his best personal best of 14.65 metre to secure India’s 27th medal at the Paris Paralympic Games.
Born on 24 December 1983, Naib Subedar Hokato Hotozhe Sema was employed as a havildar in the Indian Army with 9 Assam Regiment with the ambition of joining the elite Special Forces. However, in 2002, he lost his leg due to a landmine blast during a counter terrorism operation in Jammu & Kashmir.
Sema took up shot-put after the incident at the age of 32 and has since won several medals including the bronze at the China World Para Athletics Grand Prix, gold in the National Games 2017 and bronze at the Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, China in 2022.
Celebrating the remarkable feat, the President of India, Droupadi Murmu today congratulated the survivor of landmine blast on winning a medal in his debut Paralympics. “I wish him greater accomplishments in the future”, the President said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that it is a proud moment for the nation. “His incredible strength and determination are exceptional. Congratulations to him. Best wishes for the endeavours ahead”, the PM posted on X platform.
Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, stated that Hokato Hotozhe Sema has “carved a moment of greatness” at Paralympics 2024. He added, “With every ounce of strength & determination, he earns a Bronze Medal in Men’s Shot Put F57. A remarkable achievement that will echo in the hearts of many! Proud of you champ!”
In his message, Governor of Nagaland, La Ganesan, congratulated Hokato Hotozhe Sema for his “extraordinary achievement” at the Paris Paralympics 2024 and stated, “Your bronze medal and incredible personal best marks a new chapter in the state’s sporting history, especially as the first-ever athlete from Nagaland to achieve this feat.”
The Governor also added that despite the personal challenges, the Sema’s unwavering dedication and fighting spirit inspire millions across the nation. “Your exemplary service in the Indian Army and in the global sports arena is a true example of perseverance, bravery, and excellence. India celebrates you and your remarkable victory!” the Governor added.
Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio congratulated the Indian para-athlete and said that his “remarkable journey & dedication has led to this outstanding achievement. He is a true inspiration & a role model.”
Deputy Chief Minister TR Zeliang too congratulated the shot-putter and said that it is a proud and historic day for Nagaland and wished that Sema will continue to inspire and bring more laurels to the State and Nation.
In his message, Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton extended heartfelt congratulations to Hokato Hotozhe Sema “for scripting history by becoming the first-ever athlete from Nagaland to win a Paralympic medal and winning the 27th medal for India!” Patton also said that India stands proud of this incredible achievement and Nagaland celebrates its new sports hero. He also wished Sema “many more such achievements in the future!”
BRONZE for Hokato Sema! 🥉
Hokato Sema secures the BRONZE medal in Shot Put F57, marking the 27th medal for Team India at #ParisParalympics2024! 🇮🇳 What an outstanding performance—WELL DONE, HOKATO! #Cheer4Bharat #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/K2BUGHdt5J
— India in France (@IndiaembFrance) September 6, 2024
