Nagaland government on Saturday announced a cash reward of Rs. 1.5 crore for Hokato Hotozhe Sema, who won a bronze medal in the Men’s Shot Put F57 event at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.
The announcement was made in a post on X (formerly Twitter), where chief minister Neiphiu Rio expressed immense pride in Hokato’s historic achievement.
“We’re proud & joyous for Mr. Hokato Hotozhe Sema on winning Bronze… He’s made India proud & Nagaland shine. Being the 1st Olympic Medalist from Nagaland, I’m happy to announce that the Nagaland Govt will extend a cash reward of Rs. 1.5 cr,” Rio stated.
In addition to the cash prize, Rio said the state government will recommend Hokato’s name to the Government of India for the prestigious Arjuna Award.
Rio also mentioned that efforts would be made to secure his promotion in the Indian Army as an extraordinary case, not only for his Olympic and Asian Games achievements but also for his gallant service to the nation. The state government is further planning initiatives to promote sports in Hokato’s name, Rio said.
“Congratulations once again, Mr. Hokato Hotozhe Sema. You have made every Naga proud. May you continue to bring laurels to our people,” Rio added, calling Hokato a true inspiration and role model for all.
Prez, PM, others congratulate
Hokato Hotozhe Sema’s bronze medal victory at the Paris 2024 Paralympics in the men’s shot put F57 event has drawn immense praise from national and state leaders across India.
Prime Minister Modi also held a telephonic conversation with Paralympic Games medal winner Hokato Hotozhe Sema. PM Modi appreciated the efforts of Hokato Hotozhe Sema to win a medal in his very first Paralympics at the age of 40 years.
President: In a pot on ‘X’ (formerly Twitter), President of India Droupadi Murmu extended her heartfelt congratulations to Hokato on winning bronze medal. “A survivor of landmine blast, Hokato has won a medal in his debut Paralympics. I wish him greater accomplishments in the future,” Murmu said.
PM: In another post, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said it was a proud moment for India.
“His incredible strength and determination are exceptional. Congratulations to him. Best wishes for the endeavours ahead,” Modi said.
LS Speaker: Lok Sabha speaker Om Birla congratulated Hokato Hotozhe Sema on his phenomenal performance. “Your achievement is an inspiration and beacon of hope for aspiring sportspersons & a shining example of India’s excellence in sports,” Birla said.
Gov: Nagaland Governor La Ganesan congratulated Hokato for his extraordinary achievement. “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,” he said.
Ganesan said that despite facing immense personal challenges during his service at the Line of Control, Hokato unwavering dedication and your fighting spirit has inspired 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,” Ganesan stated.
Dy. CMs: Deputy chief ministers TR Zeliang and Y Patton also shared their pride, calling this a historic moment for Nagaland and the country. “A proud and historic day for Nagaland. May you continue to inspire and bring more laurels to the State and Nation. Hats off to you, take a bow,” Zeliang said in his post on X.
In another post on X, Patton congratulated Hokato for scripting history by becoming the first-ever athlete from Nagaland to win a Paralympics medal. “India stands proud of this incredible achievement and Nagaland celebrates its new sports hero. Here’s to many more achievements in the future,” Patton stated.