The State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Nagaland, Diethono Nakhro has commended Hokato Hotozhe Sema for winning the Bronze Medal in the Men’s Shot Put F57 Final at the Paris Paralympic Games 2024. “This victory is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and unyielding spirit, representing a proud moment for India and the State of Nagaland”, she stated.
Hokato’s accomplishment has set a new benchmark for athletes across the nation, particularly for young disabled sportspersons, who now see him as a shining role model, the Commissioner added while also calling for more initiatives to promote and support disability sports.
The SCPD appreciated the Nagaland Government for the gesture to reward the Paralympian which she said highlights the government’s commitment to promoting excellence in sports, especially within the disability community. “Such support not only boosts the morale of individual athletes but also sends a powerful message about the value of inclusion in sports,” she stated.
Highlighting that Hokato Hotozhe Sema is the first athlete from the State to win a medal at such a prestigious international sporting event, the SCPD said that the victory is even more significant that Nagaland’s first-ever medal at this premier level has been earned by a para-athlete.
The Commissioner stated that his victory underscores the immense talent and potential of young disabled athletes in the State and said that by investing in infrastructure, training facilities, and funding for para-athletes, Nagaland can cultivate many more world-class competitors who can reach the pinnacle of international competition, just as Hokato has.
The future of disability sports is bright, and with the right support, Nagaland will become a powerhouse in producing top para-athletes in the years to come, Nakhro said.
