New Delhi, January 17, 2025:
Arjuna Award for Hokato Sema
Indian para-athlete Hokato Hotozhe Sema was presented with the distinguished Arjuna Award for outstanding performance in Para-Athletics at the National Sports Awards 2024. The President of India, Droupadi Murmu presented the award to him at the Rashtrapati Bhawan on Friday.
Congratulations by Nagaland Chief Minister
Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, through X (formerly Twitter), congratulated Sema for his commitment and the achievements that motivated thousands of athletes throughout India.
” Heartiest congratulations to Mr. H. Hokato Sema on receiving the prestigious #ArjunaAwards for Outstanding Performance in Sports and Games 2024, in Para-Athletics discipline. His dedication and achievements have inspired countless aspiring athletes, Neiphiu Rio posted on X.
Historic Performance at Paris Paralympics
Sema’s achievement stems from his performance at the 2024 Paris Paralympics, where he secured a bronze medal in the men’s shot put F57 final. His throw of 14.65 meters was a personal best, solidifying his position as a top para-athlete. Sema’s medal came in a highly competitive field, with Yashin Khosravi of Iran winning gold with a throw of 15.96 meters and Thiago Paulino dos Santos of Brazil taking silver with 15.06 meters.
India completed its most successful Paralympic campaign by ending with a record 29 medals, which consisted of seven gold, nine silver, and 13 bronze medals.
Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Awardees
Along with Sema, other great sportspersons were also honored with the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award by the President. These include Manu Bhaker, double Olympic medalist; Gukesh Dommaraju, World Chess Champion; Harmanpreet Singh, captain of Indian Men’s Hockey Team; and Praveen Kumar, Para-athlete. Their performances have added a lot to Indian sports.
Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, through X (formerly Twitter), congratulated Sema for his commitment and the achievements that motivated thousands of athletes throughout India.Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, through X (formerly Twitter), congratulated Sema for his commitment and the achievements that motivated thousands of athletes throughout India.The recognition of Hokato Sema with the Arjuna Award marks a proud moment for Indian para-athletics, with the country sporting achievements continuing to shine on an international platform.
